Teaching assistant makes lasting impact with compassion, creativity

This piece is sponsored by LifeScape.

Each September, LifeScape joins the nation in celebrating Direct Support Professional and Teaching Assistant Week — a time to recognize the people who empower children and young adults with developmental disabilities to learn, grow and thrive.

At LifeScape’s Pathways to Life School, teaching assistants, or TAs, play an especially important role in preparing students for life beyond the classroom. This year, LifeScape proudly highlights James Myers, a longtime staff member whose compassion, patience and creativity have left a lasting impact on countless students and families.

A calling to empower others

Myers began his career at LifeScape more than a decade ago, spending his first eight years in adult day services before joining Pathways as a teaching assistant. For the past two years, he has been part of the team that helps students build independence and confidence. Recently, he transitioned into a new role as a job coach, where he supports young adults in finding employment and learning workplace skills.

“Being a TA was an important step for me,” Myers said. “It took me from being a caregiver to actively helping students realize and reach their potential. Helping them build confidence and independence has meant the world to me.”

For Myers, LifeScape has been as much about personal growth as professional growth.

“I’ve empowered students to be more confident in themselves and let their voices be heard,” he said. “In turn, it has empowered me to reach farther than I ever thought I could. I never imagined I’d become a job coach, but now I get to help students discover independence in a whole new way.”

A bond beyond the classroom

For some families, Myers’ presence has been life-changing. Nichole North, whose son Adam attended Pathways, remembers how Myers made a difficult transition easier.

Adam, now 21, has Down syndrome, along with other diagnoses. His personality is big, his smile mischievous and his presence unforgettable. After graduating from high school — where he was even crowned homecoming king — Adam joined Pathways. His parents worried about how he’d adjust to a new setting.

“Once Adam met James, our worries faded,” North said. “James went out of his way to learn how Adam communicated and paid attention to his personality. Adam picked up on that right away and respected him deeply.”

Over time, the two formed a bond that went beyond the walls of Pathways. Myers knew how to balance “tough love” with reassurance, and he became Adam’s go-to person for encouragement. “If we told Adam that James wanted him to do something, that was the magic ticket,” North said. “He truly made Adam’s time at Pathways the best it could possibly be.”

Even after Adam graduated from Pathways in June, their friendship continues. The two meet up for movies, bowling and ice cream outings. They FaceTime often, and Adam’s face lights up whenever he sees Myers. “James doesn’t see his role as just a job,” North said. “He truly cares, and that has left a lasting impression not only on Adam but on our whole family.”

A valued teammate

Behind the scenes, Myers’ colleagues see those same qualities. Leah Bolkema, a special education teacher at Pathways, has worked alongside him for more than a year.

“Teaching assistants are essential to what we do,” Bolkema explained. “They are with students in the moment, every day, ensuring their needs are met while teaching vital skills. James embodies everything LifeScape stands for. He works hard with every student he meets, from hygiene to job skills, always striving to help them become their most independent selves.”

Myers “is a rock star,” she added. “He has built meaningful relationships with students and families, and he continues to stay connected even after students move on. LifeScape is better with him on our team.”

Celebrating teaching assistants

Stories like Myers’ are a reminder of why LifeScape celebrates teaching assistants and direct support professionals. Their work may not always make headlines, but for the students and families they support, their impact is profound and lasting.

At LifeScape, teaching assistants empower young people to live their best life — whether that’s through teaching life skills like cooking and budgeting, guiding behavior and social skills, or simply being a source of encouragement and joy. And for James Myers, the rewards are just as great.

“This is where I’m meant to be,” Myers said. “Helping students grow into themselves — it’s the best part of what I do.”

To learn more about LifeScape, visit lifescapesd.org.