Abby Jansen, a special education teacher at Newton Elementary School, approaches each day with an open heart and a flexible mindset. For nearly a decade, Abby has worked tirelessly to support her students, guiding them through the hurdles of learning, growth, and development with kindness and creativity.

Abby’s journey to Newton and her role in special education is a blend of life experiences and professional calling. Originally from Crestwood, Missouri, she graduated from Southeast Missouri State University with dual certifications in special and general education. While she initially considered a career in history education, a conversation with a former coach who worked with special needs students inspired her to shift gears.

“I went to sign up for classes, and something clicked,” Abby recalls. “I changed my major that day and never looked back.”

Abby’s move to Jasper County was a twist of fate. Married to an Effingham native, she applied to Newton after hearing about an opening through local connections. “They took a chance on me, even though I was an outsider,” she says. “I’ve been here ever since, and it’s been an incredible journey.”

In her current role, Abby serves as a special education resource teacher, working with small groups or one-on-one sessions to provide targeted support in reading, math, and social skills. Her classroom is a dynamic space where students not only learn but also grow emotionally and socially.

“Social skills are a big part of what I do,” Abby explains. “We focus on how to be part of a group, handle emotions, and navigate the world around them. It’s all about helping them succeed beyond academics.”

Abby’s work often involves creating individualized education plans (IEPs) tailored to each student’s unique needs. This legal framework ensures that every child receives the specific support they require to thrive. “An IEP is like a roadmap,” she says. “It’s built with the student, their family, and a team of educators to guide their progress.”

Her commitment to her students extends beyond the classroom. Abby is deeply invested in understanding their lives and adapting her approach to meet their immediate needs. “Some days, they come in tired or hungry, and we adjust,” she says. “Whether it’s a snack, a conversation, or a quick game, it’s about addressing the whole child.”

Reflecting on the rewards of her work, Abby describes the bittersweet moment when a student “graduates” from her care. “It’s like being a foster parent,” she says. “You’re thrilled to see them ready to rejoin their peers, but you miss having them in your room.”

Abby’s dedication is matched by her appreciation for the supportive environment at Newton Elementary. Sharing her space with fellow resource teachers and aides, she emphasizes the collaborative nature of her work. “It takes a village,” she says. “We share students, ideas, and responsibilities, making sure every child gets what they need.”

When she’s not at school, Abby enjoys spending time with her husband and their young children. A self-proclaimed “small-town convert,” she values the sense of community in Jasper County, which mirrors the close-knit vibe of her upbringing.

“I never expected to end up here, but it feels like home now,” she says. “This place, these people—they’ve made it easy to love what I do.”

For Abby Jansen, teaching is more than a job—it’s a mission to nurture and empower the next generation, one student at a time.