Teaching Special Education: Brent’s Story

We believe strong teachers often come directly from the communities they serve. Brent Clayson is one of those teachers. After receiving an American Board scholarship, Brent completed his certification and began teaching special education. Today, he helps students build confidence, develop skills, and succeed in the classroom every day.

Brent’s Inspiration

Brent says his path toward teacher certification started with the educators already around him.

“I was inspired to pursue teacher certification by my experience working with children in other capacities, as well as three of my siblings and two in laws who are teachers,” Brent shared. “Their love for their jobs was encouraging.”

Like many future teachers, Brent says financial concerns and self-doubt could have prevented him from moving forward. Receiving the scholarship helped change that.

“Getting the scholarship was so helpful in allowing me to move forward without having to worry about costs,” he said. “It also gave me the confidence to attempt it.”

Securing His Dream Job

After completing the program and earning certification, Brent began working with middle school students in special education. He now helps support students as they work toward success in mainstream classrooms.

“In the school I am working we focus on helping students be included in the mainstream classroom,” Brent explained. “This means we are helping those with special needs achieve the skills they will need to succeed despite their challenges.” For Brent, the most rewarding part of teaching is seeing students believe in themselves. “Seeing the students feel successful and confident after an activity is what motivates me.”

Your Community. Your Teachers.

American Board’s 2026 Teacher Appreciation Week theme is “Your Community, Your Classroom.” Brent’s story reflects that mission. Like many American Board teachers, he chose to serve students in his own community and help meet the growing need for strong teachers in America’s schools.

Brent also encourages others who may be thinking about becoming a teacher to take the leap.

“I would tell someone who is considering becoming a teacher to go for it,” he said. “There is so much support and so many resources to help you reach your goal. The end result is so worth the effort.”

When asked what advice he would give future teacher candidates, Brent emphasized consistency and support systems. “The program advice I have is to use the study guides and quizzes often,” Brent said. “Then there are lots of groups on social media that are going through the process and offer lots of encouragement and help.”

American Board is proud to celebrate Brent and the work he is doing in special education. Stories like his show the impact that community-rooted teachers can have on students every single day.

Step Into Your Classroom

If Brent’s story has inspired you to step into your own classroom, visit AmericanBoard.org to learn how fast and affordable certification can work for you.