5 strategies for first-year special education teachers

5 strategies for first-year special education teachers

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Key points:

  • Communication is key for all those involved in special education
  • Don’t forget to think creatively and look at the big picture when framing students’ goals

If you’re heading into your first job as a special education teacher, congratulations. Not only will you be able to use the knowledge you developed as a student to make a difference in children’s lives, you’ll be doing it in the most needed position in U.S. schools.

Two-thirds of schools with staffing shortages said special education is the hardest area to staff, according to the National Center for Education Statistics.

I’m sure the excitement of landing a position was mixed with the fear we all face when starting a new job. The demands on special education teachers are unlike any other position in schools, and because of shortages, you may be asked to tackle a bigger role than expected when you start.

While your job will be thrilling, frustrating, and exhausting, sometimes all on the same day, I do know there are successful strategies that can help you make the needed adjustments to be effective while at the same time maintaining a necessary work/life balance.

Jamie Sowers, Ed. D, Clinical Special Education Advisory Team Director, BlazerWorks

Jamie Sowers, Ed. D, is the clinical special education advisory team director for BlazerWorks. He was the former special education director for Santa Fe Public Schools in New Mexico. He’s also been a teacher, coordinator, and principal before joining BlazerWorks. He currently lives in Colorado.

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