Abstract
This qualitative study aimed to explore the realities in teaching the struggling learners from the data provided by the SPED teachers. The study particularly gathered data on the experiences of the SPED teachers, the challenges they encountered, their coping mechanisms to the challenges, and the insight they would like to share about their job as SPED teachers. There were 17 SPED teachers who participated in the interview and focused group discussion. The study revealed that the SPED teachers experienced emotional labor; giving specialized care; assessing the children even if they are not trained to do so; and experienced the feeling of fulfillment as SPED teacher. The challenges they face include the difficulty in addressing the needs of the children; stress and negative emotions; struggle with children’s behavioral problems; and lack of support for SPED. To address the challenges, teachers shared they cultivate positive emotions, attend professional development activities, and establish support group. They shared insights that: SPED Teaching is not for everyone; SPED Teaching is a special and fulfilling task; and SPED Teaching is a tough job. This study therefore recommends support for the SPED teachers to be more effective and less burdened in their job.