How Special Needs Teacher And Mom Alma Nikki Rosado Says Parents Can Fill In The Gap This Back To School Season

As quickly as the summer came in with blaring hot temperatures is how quickly it’s exiting stage left. Back-to-school season is here, and getting your child reacclimated to their regular school routine is going to come with a learning curve.

For special education teacher and mother Alma Nikki Rosado, she’s on double duty when it comes to preparing for the first day of school. As an education professional, she’s sending her child to school and welcoming dozens of kids into her classroom. It’s a tall task, but according to Nikki, “You don’t have to be perfect in either role as a parent or teacher. You just need to be present for your child and students. They need to feel seen, supported, and loved.”

Nikki considers herself a natural nurturer and protector. “Living in both of these roles has taught me patience and the importance of partnership. I’ve learned that when parents and educators truly collaborate, the child is always the one who wins.”

With the current administration freezing funding that directly impacts essential before- and after-school programs and a wide variety of other initiatives, parents are encouraged to put in extra effort to help their children navigate the classroom and home. The Department of Education has been given approval to release and disperse grants and funds to schools, but with a shaky president, it’s even more important for parents to help fill the gap when it comes to their child’s education.

“As a mother, I’ve always appreciated when educators are clear, timely, and transparent about what the classroom needs—not just in terms of supplies, but also support, expectations, and areas where students can work on at home.”

The duality of being a mom and teacher gives Nikki two perspectives when it comes to preparing children for real life.

“Make sure you are present in your child’s academics,” she says. “I also think parents should trust the process and always remember that growth takes time. There may be bumps along the way, but those are part of learning. Parents should celebrate effort, not just outcomes.”

As for some back-to-school advice, Nikki says: “Start routines early and gradually adjust bedtime, wake-up time, and mealtimes to match the school-day rhythm.” She recommends talking to your child about expectations and feelings and building in time to help with homework.

As a teacher, she stresses the power of emotional support. Three things parents can do more with their child are: read and study together, ask about their child’s day, and encourage independence at home. “It sets them up for success not just academically, but in life.”