For the last 15 weeks, Northstar has had a special visitor on campus. Meredith Missana, a junior studying Exceptional Education at Randolph-Macon College in Ashland, Virginia, has spent two full days each week interning in Physical Education/Health classes as part of her semester-long placement.

The goal of the internship is to give EXED students the opportunity to collaborate with seasoned host teachers. During their time on ease into a leadership role by gradually taking on more responsibility in the classroom. Experiences like this not only prepare future educators, but also reinforce why Northstar stands out among today’s leading special needs schools.

What began with observing and assisting soon grew into independently working with students, adapting activities, and collaborating closely with her host teacher. Through Northstar’s supportive environment and small class sizes, Meredith was able to build meaningful connections with students while learning how individualized instruction helps every child succeed.

“It’s been amazing,” Meredith shared about her experience. “The coolest part has been seeing the different ways these activities can be adapted depending on what each student needs.”

While Meredith had done field placements in classrooms before, including both general education and special education classes, this was her first time teaching in a gym. As a lifelong athlete and a volunteer of the Arc of Northwest Mississippi’s programs, she dove right in.

“She’s adapted really well,” said PE teacher MacKenzie Pigg, who is currently pursuing her doctorate in Kinesiology for Individuals with Disabilities from the University of Virginia. “She walked in every morning with a smile and a can-do attitude. After a couple weeks, I was able to step back and trust that she had it.”

“I have some new ideas to bring back with me to Mississippi this summer,” Meredith commented. Next year, she plans to do more fieldwork placements by completing her student teaching. Her eventual goal is to be a special education teacher.

For many college students pursuing careers in special education, opportunities like this are invaluable. Northstar provides future educators with real-world experience in a setting that mirrors a traditional academic environment while still offering accommodations for varying ability levels. Students learn in classrooms, participate in electives, and engage in school traditions, all while receiving individualized support tailored to their unique needs.

As one of Central Virginia’s innovative special needs schools, Northstar also serves as a model for colleges and universities preparing the next generation of educators. By opening its doors to interns and student teachers, Northstar demonstrates what inclusive, student-centered education can look like in practice.

The students noticed her impact, too.

“I’ll miss her. I like how kind Ms. Missana is,” said seventh grader Amyra.

Another student, Max, summed it up simply: “I’d give her an A!”