Special Education
As a special educator, I believe the ability to adapt and also to differentiate is the most important skills any teacher can have. All students learn differently, and it is unrealistic to expect all students to be on the same level all the time. A student’s IEP is a road map that I must follow to help my students to reach their goals. It is important that I focus on student’s needs, and modify my teaching to allow those student’s needs to be met. Adaptability and reflection both come into play in any classroom. I must be flexible in my teaching, and be able to change my plan if necessary. Unexpected things happen all the time. Additionally, I must be reflective on my teaching to ensure that my students are learning what I am trying to teach them.
In all education, but even more so, in special education, it is incredibly important to know your student’s interests. It can sometimes be difficult to reach a student, and the best way to make a lesson intriguing or motivating to that student is by incorporating their interests.
I also believe it is important to allow students to move throughout the day. Sitting for long periods of time is difficult for anyone, but especially for children. Students should be given movement breaks throughout the day, and if a student is more comfortable standing while doing their work, they should be allowed to do so.
Special education is my heart and my passion. I believe that even in a general education classroom, special education techniques can be incorporated to help reach each individual student in the class. As a special educator, I will do everything I can to reach each and every one of my students’ individual education goals. I will allow each of my students to learn at their own pace, and I will incorporate my students’ interest into my lessons to increase their motivation to learn.
