In the field of education, there are rare individuals whose impact transcends the classroom, leaving a lasting mark on the lives they touch. Such is the legacy of Bette Salisbury Slowinski, a one-of-a-kind special education instructor whose dedication, innovation, and unwavering passion shaped the lives of her students and the broader autism community.
As we reflect on the legacy Bette left behind, we uncover the many layers of influence she imparted. From fostering independence and empowerment to promoting inclusivity and understanding, her contributions echo far beyond the classroom walls.
Bette received her master’s degree in early childhood education from Oakland University in 1979 and spent the following 44 years teaching children with emotional impairments in the Southfield School District. In 2004, she added an autism endorsement which quickly became her passion in life.
“Bette dedicated her life to children. Her focus was always broader than the individual child. She included the family and the community in her scope,” said Linda Schweyer, lifelong friend and fellow colleague of Bette. “Bette was never content to sit still. She continued working with autistic children even after retirement and formed many strong and lasting bonds with the children and their families.”
Bette also taught in OUCARES’ autism pee wee camps from 2013-17 as a lead teacher. During her time with OUCARES (now named Joanne and Ted Lindsay Foundation for Autism Outreach Services) , she had a tremendous impact on countless families and OU colleagues. Beyond her teaching abilities, she was a source of support for parents, offering guidance and reassurance.
During their time working together, OUCARES Facilitator Kelly Connell quickly recognized Bette’s impact on the autism community. “Bette believed that each moment presented a teaching opportunity, and every experience for a child with autism was seen as a chance for growth,” she said. “This is a lesson that myself, and countless other educators who have worked alongside Bette have carried with us throughout our careers.”
In March of 2023, Bette unexpectedly passed away. As a tribute to her life and impact, her husband, Gary; their three children (Bryan, Craig and Christy); and other family members and friends started the Bette Salisbury Slowinski Endowment.
“Her legacy and impact on OUCARES and the autism community will continue through this scholarship, allowing children impacted by autism to have meaningful opportunities,” said Kelly Connell.
The goal of the endowment is to honor Bette’s legacy and improve the quality of life for individuals and families impacted by autism spectrum disorders, mainly by supporting programs for individuals with autism.
"Bette was my best friend for over 60 years,” said Jackie Jones, OU alum. “The love and care she gave to her family and friends was also shared during her 40+ years of teaching. Bette loved her profession and her ‘kids’, whether they were at school or camp. She is a ‘tough act’ to follow, and remembering and honoring her with this endowment is something I know would make her happy.”
It’s clear that Bette was not just a teacher; she was an example of compassion, understanding, and unwavering dedication to her students. Her classroom was not defined by four walls but by the endless possibilities she saw in each child she worked with. Her methods were rooted in respect for the unique strengths of every individual.
This is the legacy of Bette Salisbury Slowinski, where her spirit lives on in the laughter of children, the achievements of her students, and the profound sense of hope she instilled in all who were fortunate enough to know her.
If you would like to continue to honor Bette’s legacy, you can contribute to the Bette Salisbury Slowinski Endowment online.
April 17, 2024
By James Silvestri
