Roles Of A Sped Teacher

Sample Solution

   

Case Managing and Managing Others, i.e., Paraeducators, Aides

As a special education teacher, you will be responsible for case managing your students. This includes developing and implementing individualized education plans (IEPs), tracking student progress, and collaborating with other professionals, such as general education teachers, paraeducators, and related service providers.

You will also be responsible for managing your paraeducators and aides. This includes providing them with training and support, delegating tasks,

Full Answer Section

      Differentiating Lesson Plans with General Education Teachers One of the most important roles of a special education teacher is to differentiate lesson plans to meet the needs of all learners. This means adapting the curriculum, materials, and instruction to ensure that all students have the opportunity to learn and succeed. When working with general education teachers, it is important to collaborate to develop lesson plans that are both challenging and supportive for all students. This may involve providing additional support to students with disabilities, such as modified materials, scaffolding, or small group instruction. Legal and Confidentiality Concerns When Working with Students and Families/Caregivers Special education teachers are required to follow a number of laws and regulations, such as the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). IDEA is a federal law that guarantees a free and appropriate public education to all students with disabilities. FERPA is a federal law that protects the privacy of student education records. It is important for special education teachers to be familiar with these laws and regulations in order to protect the rights of their students and their families. Conflict Resolution Among Students and Staff Conflict resolution is an important skill for all teachers, but it is especially important for special education teachers. Students with disabilities are more likely to experience conflict than other students, and special education teachers may also be involved in conflict with other staff members, such as general education teachers or paraeducators. There are a number of different conflict resolution strategies that special education teachers can use. Some common strategies include mediation, negotiation, and arbitration. Being Involved Beyond the Classroom Special education teachers are often involved in a variety of activities beyond the classroom. This may include attending parent-teacher conferences, participating in school committees, or volunteering at extracurricular activities. Being involved beyond the classroom is a great way to get to know your students and their families better, and to build relationships with other staff members. It is also a great way to advocate for your students and to promote special education. Advocacy and Mentoring Students, Families, and Other Colleagues Special education teachers are advocates for their students, their families, and their colleagues. They work to ensure that their students have access to the resources and services they need to succeed. They also work to educate others about special education and to promote inclusion. Special education teachers may also mentor other teachers, new teachers, or paraeducators. They can provide guidance and support to these individuals as they learn about special education and how to best meet the needs of all learners. Lifelong Learning and Staying Current on Educational Trends and Legislation for Special Education The field of special education is constantly changing, so it is important for special education teachers to stay up-to-date on the latest trends and legislation. This can be done by attending conferences, reading professional journals, and taking continuing education courses. It is also important for special education teachers to be familiar with the research on effective teaching practices for students with disabilities. This research can help teachers to develop and implement effective interventions for their students. Additional Roles and Responsibilities In addition to the roles and responsibilities listed above, special education teachers may also be involved in a variety of other activities, such as:

• Developing and implementing professional development for other staff members
• Conducting research on special education
• Working with parents and families to develop home-school programs
• Collaborating with community organizations to provide services to students with disabilities

Special education teachers play a vital role in the lives of their students and their families. They are responsible for providing a high-quality education to students with disabilities, and they work to ensure that these students have the opportunity to reach their full potential.