"Jesus loves the little children, all the children of the world. Red and yellow, black and white, they are precious in his sight. Jesus loves the little children of the world". This popular children's song resonates in my head when I hear the phrase 'exceptional child'. Why? Because in the classroom, my job is to treat everyone the same – everyone is equal. I should not present bias or favoritism and every child should be given the same opportunity to succeed.

I would like to consider myself a tolerant and open person, willing to take people for whom they are and treat them as I would like to be treated. I can not help but question why it has taken so long for us to recognise the needs of exceptional children and their families. I wonder if our current Bermuda education system (both public and private) are really equipped to handle the demands and meet the unique needs of children with disabilities. As I read about the laws in the United States that were enacted to protect children with disabilities and provide them with educational opportunities, I question in the twenty-first century with our sophisticated technology and superior education, why children with disabilities are still falling through the cracks, why their parents still feel so alone and unsupported and why despite the talk of inclusivity, our practices demonstrate divisiveness?

In light of the recent events in the community and the unsettling rumours circulating about school closures, surely as teachers we still have a role to play in ensuring that every child who walks through our classroom doors are provided with the opportunity to advance their education and create a foundation for them to become productive citizens. I realise the importance of my role as a teacher – my job is to ensure that all my students, no matter their challenges, appreciate this gift of life that has been given to them and make the most of it. US Army General George Patton once said, "Accept the challenges so that you can feel the exhilaration of victory." My job is to lead them to victory. "Respice Finem" (Keep the end in view!)