MEDIA
Sharing Stories That Make a Difference Welcome to the Media Center for Leading Beside. This is where you’ll find news, interviews, publications, book reviews, speaking engagements, and other milestones that reflect my journey as an educator, author, and advocate for inclusive education. Whether featured in a magazine, invited to speak, recognized through awards, or sharing insights with fellow educators, each opportunity represents another step toward inspiring classrooms and communities around the world. Thank you for following this journey.
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★★★★★ Readers’ Favorite Editorial Review
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Five-Star Rating for The Heart of a Special Education Teacher
Readers’ Favorite
Release Date: July 2026
Leading Beside is proud to share that The Heart of a Special Education Teacher: A Journey of Resilience, Inclusion, and Purpose has received a Five-Star Editorial Review from Readers’ Favorite, one of the world’s leading independent book review organizations.
In the official press release, reviewer Leonard Smuts praises the memoir for its heartfelt storytelling, honest reflection, and inspiring message of resilience, inclusion, and hope. The review highlights Dr. Vevian Salahid’s journey from the Philippines to the United States, her dedication to Special Education, and her unwavering commitment to serving students with compassion and purpose.
Readers’ Favorite describes the book as more than a memoir—it is a meaningful reflection on the challenges and rewards of teaching children with special needs while encouraging educators, parents, and readers to embrace empathy, perseverance, and inclusion.
Review Highlights
“More than a memoir, this work provides deep insights into the world of special needs children.
“The writing style is warm and personal.
Her love of teaching and desire to help children were a source of courage.”
“It is an inspiring story filled with hope and upliftment.”
This recognition is a significant milestone in my journey as an educator and author.
I am deeply grateful to Readers’ Favorite and reviewer Leonard Smuts for recognizing the heart and purpose behind this work.
Awards and Recognition
The Heart of a Special Education Teacher: A Journey of Resilience, Inclusion, and Purpose
Most Life-Affirming Read Booky
Arthur Beaumont
Booky Judge
Review Highlights
“A deathbed promise rendered with restraint that makes the grief land harder.”
“Concrete sensory detail grounds the reader in the material reality of under-resourced Special Education work.”
“A single vivid scene turns a case study into a real child the reader remembers.”
➡ Read the Official Readers’ Favorite Press Release