Sonya Lewis is more than just an educational leader—she is a committed lifelong learner, a passionate advocate for students with special needs, and a role model for balancing growth, leadership, and empathy. Her reflections on her journey, offer a window into the heart of someone dedicated to creating equitable, inclusive educational spaces.
“I will be a student forever,” Sonya says, and she lives this truth daily. Her motivation comes from a deep-seated belief in ongoing learning. Whether it's reading new studies, staying up to date with the latest strategies for student development, or drawing on mentorship, Sonya is always evolving.
Sonya’s participation in the Professional Innovators in Education program has been a transformative experience. She highlights how it has deepened her understanding of a “very special and sometimes forgotten group of people," the students with emotional or cognitive impairments. Her time in the program has shifted her perspective toward a more individualized approach to education, one that rejects the “one size fits all” model. She now looks forward to sharing what she’s learned with her school’s teachers and staff to ensure every student feels included, understood, and supported.
After nearly two decades in education, Sonya’s drive to pursue a special education endorsement, specifically in Emotional Impairment (EI), stems from a clear desire to do more. Her leadership experience has made her acutely aware of the need for inclusive strategies that empower all educators to support students with IEPs. “I want them to feel like they are in an inclusive environment,” she explains. Her goal is to create a space where every student is supported holistically, academically, socially, and emotionally. By joining the special education team, she aims to ensure that no student is left behind due to a lack of understanding or resources.
Confidence, for Sonya, is not about self-importance. It is about being an effective voice for students who need advocacy the most. She recognizes that her confidence enables her to push for necessary supports and to make decisions that positively impact her students’ academic, social, and emotional well-being. “This job is not easy,” she acknowledges, “but when I feel confident, I can advocate effectively for my students.” Her strength in this area ensures that students with emotional and cognitive impairments are not overlooked but empowered to succeed.
Sonya’s journey is one of dedication, vision, and heart. Through her leadership, her studies, and her unwavering advocacy, she is helping shape a school environment where every student—regardless of their needs—feels seen, supported, and empowered to succeed. Her story is a testament to the power of lifelong learning and the deep impact that one committed educator can have on an entire school community.
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