Teaching Profession Video

2021 National Teacher of the Year: Special Education Is the ‘Heartbeat’ of Schools

By Emma Patti Harris & Madeline Will — May 6, 2021 3:13

Juliana Urtubey, an elementary special education teacher in Las Vegas, is the third special educator to receive the national honor in the program’s nearly seven-decade history. Known as Ms. Earth, Urtubey has built a school garden, where she leads classes and teaches students about character and growth mindset.

Emma Patti Harris is a deputy managing editor for Education Week who oversees visuals and immersive experiences.
Madeline Will is an assistant managing editor for Education Week, leading coverage of school leadership and general education trends.
Related Tags:

Video

Student Well-Being & Movement Video Female Athletes' Physical and Mental Struggle to Recover From Torn ACLs
For many female athletes who tear their anterior cruciate ligaments, the arduous hours spent recovering through physical therapy are only part of the battle.
1 min read
Artificial Intelligence Video AI + Math Learning. How to Solve a New Problem
The National Council of Teachers of Mathematics makes the argument that teachers, principals, and district leaders must “stay up to date on current AI trends” to prepare students for the future.
1 min read
Artificial Intelligence Video Reading Is Hard to Teach. Can AI Help?
Artificial intelligence might be able to drive cars, treat diseases, and train your front door to recognize your face. But can it help kids learn how to read?
1 min read
School Choice & Charters Video Private School Choice Is Growing. What Comes Next?
States are investing billions of dollars in public funds for families to use on private schooling.
1 min read