Robin Barone is a special education teacher at Buffalo Hearing and Speech Center’s Wheelock Primary School location in Fredonia. A member of the BHSC team since 2017, Robin works with 3, 4 and 5-year-old early intervention students as part of a multidisciplinary approach to helping each child reach his or her full potential. Robin brings a unique perspective to her role as a teacher, as her own daughter attended the BHSC early intervention program at Wheelock.
“I have seen the success of BHSC services and programs from a parent’s point of view and on the inside as a teacher,” Robin explains. “My daughter is now six and doing well in our local public school.”
A resident of Forestville, NY, Robin earned a degree in American sign language from Keuka College and a Master’s degree in special education from D’Youville College. She started at BHSC as a one on one aide, moved up to a behavior support aide and ultimately a special education teacher. She notes the most rewarding aspects of her position are the little things the students accomplish, such as using sign language to communicate more or discovering new things. “Just today, one of the children tasted a blueberry and he usually only eats french fries,” she laughs. “Those little accomplishments are very rewarding.”
Robin points to some of the behaviors of students as the most challenging part of her job, but says the team approach at BHSC helps to overcome them. “I’ll work very closely with my aide and others to find what works best for each individual student so they can progress beyond the challenges,” Robin says.
For college graduates or someone just beginning in the special education field, Robin offers this advice. “You have to be willing to adapt and think on the spot,” she concludes. “But when you see the successful outcomes of your work, it makes it all worth it.”
