The Starlight Awards is the CCSD version of the Grammys. It’s a night filled with dressed up celebrities of the Clark County School District who have been recognized across the district as superior and they then earn a plaque/trophy with their name. Two of these recognized ‘celebrities’ happen to be Precious Mary Jene Nebab, a Shadow Ridge special education teacher, and Nate Smith, the Shadow Ridge go-to tech guy.
Nebab wasn’t expecting to win an award, but when she did, she was more than happy.
“I was surprised and incredibly happy to receive the Starlight Award. It means so much to me, both personally and professionally,” Nebab mentioned. “As a special education teacher, I pour my heart into what I do every day, often celebrating the small wins that others might overlook. This recognition reminds me that every effort, no matter how small, is seen and valued. It motivates me to keep pushing forward for my students.”
This award was more than just a win for Nebab, it was also a win for her class and everything she stands for.
“I believe the moments that contributed to my nomination are the everyday wins in my classroom-like seeing my students learn how to cook a simple meal, advocate for themselves, or gain confidence in their communication skills,” Nebab stated.
It’s the moments that feel small, but are actually the biggest that make Nebab feel proud to be a life skills teacher.
“As a life skills teacher, what I love most about being a special education teacher is the opportunity to teach my students practical skills they can apply in real life. I find joy in helping them build independence and confidence in their everyday routines,” Nebab said. “One of the highlights of my work is exposing them to real-world experiences through community-based instruction (CBI), such as our field trips to places like Goodwill. These trips give students direct, hands-on exposure to job settings and help them understand what it means to be part of the workforce. It’s incredibly rewarding to see them grow and take pride in their abilities.”
For a few years, Nebab has been part of the program Best Buddies as Shadow’s Club Advisor, and it has helped her foster a more inclusive classroom and school.
“My involvement in programs like Best Buddies, where I help create inclusive spaces and meaningful friendships for students with intellectual disabilities, played a big role,” Nebab said. “I’ve always strived to make my classroom a place of growth, support, and dignity, and I’m grateful that those efforts were recognized.”
But sometimes, with this job, there are challenges. Even then, Nebab still finds it to be her true purpose and she loves every moment of it.
“Like many special education teachers, I’ve faced challenges such as limited parental support, managing behavioral needs, larger class sizes, student meltdowns, and of course, the never-ending paperwork,” Nebab mentioned. “Despite all that, I stay motivated by focusing on the growth I see in my students-no matter how small. Every milestone, every smile, and every breakthrough reminds me why I chose this path. I also find strength in the support of my colleagues and the sense of purpose that comes from knowing I’m helping students gain the skills they need to lead more independent and meaningful lives.”
Being in a club like Best Buddies or becoming a special education teacher is always worthwhile and if interested, it’s something that someone should consider.
“Go for it!” Nebab said. “Like Forrest Gump said, ‘Life is like a box of chocolates-you never know what you’re gonna get.’ The same goes for working in special education or getting involved with programs like Best Buddies. You might not realize it at first, but the impact you make on your students-and their families-can be life-changing. It’s not always easy, but it’s deeply meaningful. Every connection, every breakthrough, and every small success makes it all worth it.”
