One of the hardest things to remember day in and day out is that you matter too-- and that when you leave time for you (even if that lesson isn't perfect), your students benefit too. So, you know, you matter for you and for them.
One of the biggest mistakes I made as a new teachers was recreating the wheel. I spent forever making my own materials when there was often no need. Then I finally learned to look for what was out there first.
As a special education teacher, you deserve to have a life. Really. That means finding ways to save time without sacrificing the quality of service you provide. Sound tricky? Yup. Here's a few tips on how I have managed it.
One clear finding in the research is that special educators are often isolated in their schools. To thrive, you need a tribe. You need mentors, listening ears, and more.
While tequila and tears are excellent beginning teacher coping strategies, at some point you are going to need a few more. Here is a list of some of mine!
Ever been told not to take something your classroom personally? That has never worked for me, ever. What has is finding the humor-- and more specifically having an acute sense of the ridiculous.
Let's be real. Special education teachers almost never have all of the materials they need to excel. Bridging the gap requires always being on the lookout for what colleagues have--and being ready to beg, borrow, and copy what you need.
One of the keys to thriving as a special educator is having good relationships with the power players at your school-- the custodians and front office staff who can make your life so much better.... or not. This post is on how I learned that lesson and the power of saying hi.
The goal of each of these ten activities is to structure whole class discussions in such a way that all students are included. Too often whole group discussions consist of one or two students talking and everyone else zoning out. The point of these activities is to equalize participation. Some, like the socratic seminar or debate are complex while others, like the silent discussion or stand up, sit down take no prep and can get inserted into many different types of activities. Take a look and let me know what you think-- did I forget any of your favorites?
How do you support paraprofessionals? Trainings? Meetings/check ins? Collaboration with general education teachers and paras?
