Judson ISD
Department of Special Education September 2025
Meet Mr. Avitua: Empowering Students in the Essential Academics Classroom with Heart and Purpose
Mr. JaySun Avitua, known affectionately as Mr. A to his students, serves as an educator in the Essential Academics classroom at Paschall Elementary, and this is his fourth year in education. Mr. Avitua has worn many hats in the school system—starting as a substitute teacher, then a paraprofessional, and now leading his own classroom. With a family full of educators, entering the field felt like a natural and meaningful choice. Mr. Avitua’s inspiration to work in special education began in childhood. He remembers hearing his parents talk with pride and joy about their students’ accomplishments and personalities. Their stories painted a picture of a classroom filled with laughter, growth, and heart—one he knew he wanted to be part of. To Mr. Avitua, “teaching with heart” means teaching with love. He believes that students thrive when they feel safe, welcomed, and cared for. No matter how challenging the day, his students know he will move heaven and earth to make sure they feel supported and valued. Mr. Avitua builds strong relationships with students and families by showing his genuine passion for their success. His excitement for student growth is contagious—encouraging kids to try their best and helping families feel confident in the classroom experience. One of Mr. Avitua’s favorite memories is teaching his students to dance the cumbia during Fiesta Week. The classroom was filled with laughter and joy—even though, as he admits, he’s not the best dancer. It was a moment of pure fun and connection that left everyone smiling.
This year, Mr. Avitua has been especially impressed by how welcoming and kind his students have been to new classmates. While their academic efforts are always commendable, it’s their compassion and care for others that truly amaze him. In Mr. Avitua’s classroom, every success is celebrated like a big win. Whether it’s a routine task or a new achievement, students receive enthusiastic praise—through kind words, high-fives, stickers, or hugs. He makes sure each child feels like they’ve climbed a mountain. Students might be surprised to learn that Mr. Avitua loves anime and cartoons, which helps him connect with many of their favorite shows and games. Sharing his interests makes it easier for students to relate to him and feel at ease. Words that inspire Mr. A are, “Isn’t the smallest chance of victory enough of a reason for us to keep fighting?”– Jason Lee Scott, the Red Power Ranger. This quote reminds Mr. Avitua that every small victory matters—especially in special education. Whether it’s writing a name or hanging up a backpack, every effort deserves celebration. If his students show up and try their best, he’s committed to matching that energy and support. Mr. Avitua’s hope each year is simple but powerful: that his students love being in his class. He knows they’ll grow academically, but he wants them to enjoy the journey and feel proud of their time together.
Meet Mrs. Honorato-Snell: A Passionate Educator from Judson ISD’s Adult Years Program
Mrs. Honorato-Snell is a passionate educator in the Adult Years Program at Judson High School, where she brings empathy, structure, and a deep commitment to helping students with disabilities thrive. Since beginning her journey in 2018 as a Special Education Paraprofessional, she has grown into her current role after earning a Bachelor of Applied Science in Business Marketing and her EC-12 Special Education Certification. Her path into education was inspired by a desire to make a meaningful difference in the lives of students who are often overlooked. She believes every student deserves someone who never gives up on them. Whether it’s learning to make a sandwich, tidy a room, or shop for groceries, she finds joy in celebrating the victories that others might take for granted. To Mrs. Honorato-Snell, teaching with heart means showing up with empathy, patience, and purpose. She sees beyond behaviors and labels to recognize each student’s humanity and potential. Her goal is to meet students where they are and provide what they truly need to grow. Relationships are at the core of her classroom. She takes time to understand each student’s interests, needs, and communication style, creating a family-like atmosphere where everyone looks out for one another. With families, she builds trust through availability, active listening, and collaboration—especially during ARD meetings and transition planning. One unforgettable moment was watching a student with severe anxiety calmly walk through a fire drill holding a staff member’s hand—something that had previously required multiple staff and caused distress. “Those are the victories we live for,” she says. Her students continue to amaze her with their individuality and resilience. She loves watching them build friendships and support each other through challenges, knowing that there’s no one-size-fits-all in her classroom. “Each student is as unique as a snowflake,” she shares. In her classroom, progress is always celebrated—whether with hugs, high-fives, music, snacks, or a call home. Even showing up is treated as a win, and every success is recognized with enthusiasm and care. Students might be surprised to learn that Mrs. Honorato-Snell loves anime and collects Pokémon cards with her five children. She even attended PokéCon in Austin with her family this year! Words that inspire her are “Every child is one caring adult away from being a success story.” – Josh Shipp. This quote reminds her that being present, patient, and persistent is more important than being perfect. It’s a daily reminder of the power of showing up for her students. Mrs. Honorato-Snell hopes her students leave the program feeling confident, capable, and equipped to navigate the world around them—whether in daily life, on the job, or in social settings.
Meet Mrs. Amber Kimlel: Teaching with Heart in the APPLE Classrooom
Mrs. Amber Kimlel is the Special Education teacher in the APPLE classroom at Wagner High School, where she brings compassion, structure, and dedication to her classroom every day. Before becoming a certified teacher, Mrs. Kimlel spent nine years as the CEO of her household, raising four boys. Her journey into education began as a paraprofessional in specialized behavior classrooms at the elementary level. She was fascinated by how behavior was managed in schools and inspired to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Autism and Applied Behavior Analysis. Now in her fifth year as a certified teacher and ninth year in education, she has worked across elementary, middle, and high school levels in a variety of behavior classroom programs. Mrs. Kimlel was drawn to special education by observing how systems, adult responses, and student needs interacted in real time. As a visual learner, she saw opportunities for improvement and was motivated to find better solutions. To her, teaching with heart means building deep connections with students—learning what brings them joy, what motivates them, and what challenges them. She strives to create a classroom where students feel safe, comfortable, engaged, and excited to learn. She builds relationships with students and families through daily communication, regular check-ins, and learning about each child’s home life and interests. Her goal is to keep families informed and involved in their child’s progress. One of Mrs. Kimlel’s favorite classroom moments was when a group of elementary students, previously believed unable to unpack independently, learned to follow a visual schedule. With time, patience, and encouragement, they amazed everyone with their independence. This year, she’s been especially impressed by how much her students crave structure and routine. Once they understand that expectations are consistent, they begin to thrive and unlock their full potential. Mrs. Kimlel celebrates every success—big or small—with fist bumps, dance parties, smiles, side hugs, and personalized rewards that make each student feel proud and seen. Students might be surprised to learn that she loves being in the water—whether it’s at the beach, on a paddleboard, by the pool, or on a boat. Her comfort food is pizza, and a fun fact is that she performed at the Pro Bowl in Hawaii for cheerleading during her junior year of high school. Words that inspire her are, “Hakuna Matata” – A reminder to let go of worries and focus on the present, “You Will Be Found” from Dear Evan Hansen – A message of hope and reassurance that no one is truly alone, and “To see and to be seen. That is the truest nature of love.” – Brené Brown – A powerful reminder of the importance of connection, empathy, and being fully present with others. Mrs. Kimlel’s goal is for her students to reach their full potential and grow into kind, joyful, participating, and functional members of society.
Tuesday, Sept.9, 2025 from 6pm to 7pm Judson ISD SEPAC We invite all parents and guardians to join our Special Education Parent Advisory Council (SEPAC)! SEPAC is a collaborative space where families can share their experiences, offer input, and work alongside educators and administrators to enhance special education services across our district. Your voice matters, and your involvement helps us build stronger support systems for our students. Whether you're new to special education or have years of experience, we welcome your perspective and partnership. Together, we can make a meaningful difference! Join the meeting
Tuesday, September 9, 2025 @ 11am, Partners Resource Networks Presents Virtually: Top 10 Basics of Special Education This workshop will provide participants with an easy to follow roadmap of the Special Education process. We will discuss some acronyms, their definitions and why we use them. A basic overview of the Special Education process from “identification” through “re-evaluation” will be discussed. Click here to register.
Tuesday, September 9, 2025 @ 12pm, Partners Resource Networks Presents Virtually:
Connections That Matter: Advocacy, Behavior, and Mental Wellness Day 1 of 3: Connections That Matter: Advocacy, Behavior, and Mental Wellness is a supportive and empowering virtual conference designed specifically for parents and caregivers of children with disabilities. This event will focus on the vital role families play in advocating for their children, understanding behavior, and nurturing mental wellness at home and in collaboration with schools. Through interactive sessions and expert-led discussions, participants will explore: Effective advocacy strategies to navigate educational systems, understanding and supporting challenging behaviors, practical tools for promoting mental and emotional well-being, building strong, collaborative relationships with educators and service providers. This conference will provide a welcoming space for families to connect, learn, and share with others who understand the unique challenges and strengths that come with raising a child with a disability. Join us to build the connections that matter most—because your voice, your knowledge, and your love make a difference. Click here to register.
Wednesday, September 10, 2025 from 9am-11am, Region 20 presents Virtual: Bridging the Gap Between Disability and Instruction This workshop an engaging workshop focused on bridging the gap between a student's disability and effective instruction. In this session, parents and families will gain valuable insights into specially designed instruction and its pivotal role in meeting the diverse needs of students with disabilities, while learning how to advocate for personalized learning experiences that maximize their child's growth and development. Click here to register.
Thursday, September 11, 2025 from 9am-12pm, Region 20 presents Virtual: AS+K? About Suicide to Save a Life: Suicide prevention happens when people and communities come together. When we know what to look for, pay attention to those around us, and act when we see something, we will reduce the number of deaths by suicide. But where do we begin? Whether you are a professional, a worried parent, or a concerned friend, AS+K? training provides resources to help you learn the signs to look for, how to talk to someone about what they are feeling, and where to go for more help. The instructors have been trained by the Texas Suicide Prevention Collaborative. Click here to register.
Saturday, September 20, 2025 6pm, Partners Resource Networks Presents Virtually: YOUTH- What is an IEP? The intent of this workshop is to teach older students how to identify, examine, understand, and accept their own strengths/weaknesses, as well as their diagnosed disability. They will then learn how that disability and their participation in the ARD meeting will affect them and their future goals. Click here to register.
Tuesday, September 23, 2025 from 9am-11am , Region 20 presents Virtual: Post-Secondary Transition and Graduation Planning: Participants will learn about the post-secondary transition planning process, including how to set meaningful goals for life after high school—such as college, employment, and independent living—and how these goals are reflected in the Individualized Education Program (IEP). The session will also explain graduation options, key timelines, and how families can actively participate in planning meetings to ensure their child’s unique strengths, needs, and dreams are at the center of the process. Click here to register.
Tuesday, September 23, 2025 from 12pm, Partners Resource Network presents Virtual: ARD Process: This workshop will provide an overview of the ARD process so that parents will be prepared to participate at every stage of the process. Participants will gain an understanding of the ARD meeting agenda, as well as their procedural rights and responsibilities. Click here to register.
Friday, September 26, 2025 @ 12pm, Partners Resource Network presents Virtual: What's the Big IDEA Behind Inclusion? The purpose of this workshop is to provide an overview of inclusion and its importance in the education and development of children both with and without disabilities. We will look at what inclusion means, the benefits of inclusion for children of all ages, and how inclusion is built into the framework of IDEA. We will also explore some key principles of IDEA and how they affect inclusion efforts for children with disabilities. Click here to register.
Tuesday, October 7, 2025 @ 12pm, Partners Resource Network presents Virtual: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder This workshop will provide an overview of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and how parents can obtain additional assistance for their child in the public school setting. The discussion will also include a definition of the types of ADHD, why diagnosis is important, possible causes, and suggestions for helping the child learn new and appropriate behaviors. Click here to register.
Sept. 14 from 10 am- 12pm San Antonio Museum of Art- Free Sunday Bexar County Residents Free General Admission Hours: Sunday, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. During Bexar County Free Hours: -Special exhibition surcharges may apply. -All general admission, special admission, program fees, event tickets, donations, and memberships are final and non-refundable.
-Proof of Bexar County residency required.
Sept. 19- Nov. 1 Traders Village Annual Corny Maze and Halloween Light Show: Traders Village is hosting their “Corny Maze” and Light Show! The Corny Maze is the ONLY Corn Maze in San Antonio & The Largest in South Texas! Activities at the Traders Village Corny Maze: HUGE Pumpkin Patch, Petting Zoo (FREE with admission), Lots of Photo Ops, Duck Races, Roasted Corn | Corn in a Cup | Kettle Corn, and Concessions. Cost: FREE — Kids 2 & under, $8.99 — Maze Wristband (ages 3 & older), $15.99 — Maze & All-Day Ride Wristband* $6 Parking per vehicle - $36.95 per vehicle for Enchanted Lights Halloween Show
Sept. 20, from 9am-5pm San Antonio Zoo- Zoo Boo with the cost of admission to the zoo of $35- $39, enjoy FREE trick-or-treating, pumpkin spice, and everything nice at San Antonio Zoo during the Halloween season for Zoo Boo!, presented by PNC Bank. Guests can enjoy trick-or-treating, engaging entertainment, animal encounters, Fall-flavored food and drinks, and special themed weekends that guarantee a memorable visit each time!
Saturdays, Sept. 20- Nov. 15, Outdoor Family Film Series presented by the City of San Antonio-- FREE movies under the night sky at Mission Marquee Plaza! Venue opens at 7 p.m. May – September, and at 6 p.m. October – November. Bring your friends and family for an unforgettable outdoor experience. Blankets, lawn chairs, snacks, and picnics are welcome, or visit our on-site food trucks to purchase snacks, as well. Admission is Free! Pet-friendly! Parking on-site! All movie screenings begin 15 minutes after sunset. September 20 - In The Heights; October 4 - The Wild Robot; October 16 - Little Shop of Horrors; October 18 - Beetlejuice Beetlejuice (2024); November 1 - Frankenweenie; November 15 - Home Alone.
If you have questions or need support, we’re here for you! Just scan the QR code and fill out a quick form—someone from our Special Education Department will give you a call to help with whatever you need. We’re committed to partnering with you to support your child’s success!
Contact Us!!
Website: Judson ISD
Location: 8205 Palisades Drive, Live Oak, TX, USA
Phone: (210) 945-5348
Twitter: @JISDSpecialEd