Meet Donna-Neisha Steele | Special Education, Educational Consultant & Founder of Special Education JA

We had the good fortune of connecting with Donna-Neisha Steele and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Donna-Neisha, is there a quote or affirmation that’s meaningful to you?
This will sound very cliche, but my favorite quote comes from what we Christians refer to as the Good book-The Bible. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. It is my favorite quote because it reminds me of all that is possible when I remain faithful during those trials and hardships.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I am a Special Educator, Educational Consultant, and the Founder of Special Education JA (an initiative that supports students with special needs) based in Columbia, South Carolina. My profession entails working with children with disabilities in a way that addresses their learning and social abilities/needs. I also work with parents, teachers, school districts, and other professionals (Speech Therapists, Occupational Therapists, Psychologists, etc.) in crafting an individualized plan that targets the areas of concern for students with a disability to ensure they realize their true potential. I am most proud of my impact on the families I work with to ensure their students get to the point of learning where they can independently achieve and apply the skills and strategies taught to them. I get excited when the families and students I work with trust me to advocate on their behalf.

While I would not say the journey to where I am professionally was easy, I wouldn’t say it wasn’t exactly hard either. However, there were challenges that I had to overcome. Getting here took a lot of support from those close to me; hard work, determination, and perseverance were also added factors. I have learned that being organized, always having a plan, and staying ready to seize the next opportunity was the key to success in my craft.

I want the world to know that advocating and becoming a voice for those who cannot articulate for themselves is important. Through my work and initiative Special Education JA, I pride myself on advocating for the special needs community.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Columbia is not often seen as the most exciting city compared to the bigger metropolitans; however, one of the highlights of this State capital in what is known as the Midlands is its prime location to Charlotte and other cities, fantastic museums, lounges, and lovely eateries. My friends appreciate fine dining, good food, and music, so I would take them Downtown as it has something for everyone. I recommend visiting Cola’s or Smoked on our first night to cleanse our palette. My first choice for some live music would be Chayze Lounge, where all genres are featured by talented musicians. For my sport-fanatic friends, I would have them check out a basketball game (if we are in season) of the ranked South Carolina University Women’s basketball team. For those seeking outdoor adventure, there is always a party on the lake at Lake Murray. To bring our trip to a close, I would have us venture out of town to Charlotte for some nightlife activities.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Many personal and professional friends have been there on this journey and deserve recognition. However, for this series, I want to shout out those that have been consistent throughout and are there at a moment’s notice, the ones that, no matter what, have held me down throughout the good and the bad over the years. I want to start with my family, namely my parents and siblings, whose unwavering support, encouragement, and belief in me have made me who I am today. My two daughters, Jheanelle and Kacey, have been my primary source of motivation to achieve all this life has to offer. Then there are my friends, who are family I want to thank for holding me down in unimaginable ways. They know themselves, I love you guys!

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Youtube: SPED Talks with Donna Steele