LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Individualized attention is vital for students with moderate and severe disabilities, and more specialized teachers are the key.

What You Need To Know

  • Jefferson County Public Schoolos needs Moderate and Severe Disabilities teachers

  • JCPS currently has 219 MSD classrooms spread across the district

  • There are 19 MSD teacher openings 

Emily Gelnett has been an MSD Teacher at Westport Middle School for five years. 

Gelnett said she was called to teach students with special needs.

“I knew way back in elementary school, when I was in the peer tutor program at elementary, that I felt like I had a connection with these students. I’ve always felt like it’s my calling to work with students who have disabilities,” said Gelnett.

Gelnett said every day is an adventure of smiles, hugs and dual learning.

“The kids they do need a lot. But they also give a lot, right? While I’m filling their bucket. They’re filling mine also. So, and I always say I’m teaching them, but they’re also teaching me. They’re teaching me that patience and love and kindness,” said Gelnett.

Gelnett said her students, including 8th grader, Brandon Vitgo, thrive on routine. He’s also fond of his teacher.

“Yes, she is a very good teacher Yes,” said Vigo.

MSD supervisor for Jefferson County Public Schools Caitlin Hobbs said JCPS currently has 219 MSD classrooms spread across the district but would like to have more to continue to help students succeed.

“Our teachers are working on things like daily skills, academics, helping our students be successful members in society. We’re working on communication skills. It takes a team. And teachers are an incredible component of that team to lead our students to success,” said Hobbs.

Gelnett said it’s rewarding to see the progress her students make.

“They want to be able to be independent, going to the aisle and finding themselves or, they’re going to the cashier and greeting them independently and using their dollar bills to pay with next dollar strategy. It’s just so rewarding to see,” said Gelnett.

Gelnett wants others to understand that these students desperately need more MSD teachers and instructional assistants willing to go the extra mile.

 Currently, JCPS has 19 MSD teacher openings available, along with MSD instructional assistants.

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