Sovantevy Long-Latteri

Sovantevy Long-Latteri is a special education teacher at La Sierra High (Alternative) School in the Fullerton Joint Union High School District, Orange County.

“A mentor once told me to teach the way you like to learn; therefore, as a student in my class you can expect to be valued, supported, entertained, and challenged.”

As an Adult Transition Program (ATP) Teacher, Sovantevy works with eighteen to twenty-two-year-old students who have the most severe disabilities in her district. It is her role as a special education teacher to coordinate their many services, create and teach meaningful lessons, develop job sites to practice vocational skills, organize community-based outings and help them transition to adult life. With incredible patience and love, she also helps students navigate their behaviors and frustrations, and keeps everyone safe. Her objective is for her students to see their self-worth and shine it upon the world, through doing what they love.

Every day Sovantevy greets her students with a handshake, high-five, fist-bump, or by placing their hand to her face so they can feel her smile. Their classroom world is incredibly complex and filled with medication, feeding and restroom schedules, as well as work on personal goals, occupational and physical therapy, and adaptive physical education services. An ideal day includes laughter, smiles, music and dancing. With them, she says, “… I dance and celebrate the success of ATP!”

Sovantevy fell in love with special education in college while working as an instructional aide. Students thrived and classroom culture blossomed, in spite of enormous challenges. She then realized that this was her calling and has never looked back. When asked if her students can learn, Sovantevy says,” Simply put, I teach my students EVERYTHING!! Everyone can learn given the chance. This mindset is my greatest contribution to my classroom.”

Quote: “For those considering the teaching profession, I encourage you to teach from your heart and the rest will fall into place. Show up, do your best, and appreciate others for showing up and doing their best.“