Teaching Philosophy

Special education has been a field that I been drawn to for most of my life. I respect not only the variety of disabilities that have helped to make up this field, but I also appreciate the diversity that each individual student brings with them to the classroom. As a special education teacher, it is important to recognize each students individual academic and personal strengths. It is key to be open-minded and to embrace the diversity that each student brings to the classroom in order to help each student reach his or her full potential. By modeling this acknowledgement and acceptance of diversity, it will in turn help to foster these values among my students as well. Acceptance of diversity leads into the academic respects of working with students who receive special education services. It is acknowledged that no two students learn at the same rate, learn in the same way, or enter the classroom with the same strengths and experiences. One of my most important roles as a special education teacher is to take the time to learn about my students. What motivates them? What can I do to encourage a particular student who shuts down in certain situations? One of the most beneficial ways to address my students specific needs is to differentiate my instruction. This includes ensuring that I present materials at the appropriate levels and pacing. I also need to consider differentiating the ways I present my instruction so as to accommodate the various learning needs of each of my students. This could be as simple as providing small group instruction, using technology to present lessons in an interactive way, using manipulatives to ensure a concrete understanding, altering the length of assignments or offering extended time, or allowing oral responses when applicable. I have always had high expectations for myself as a student, and now as a teacher. I expect a lot of myself in terms of doing my best to create the best possible learning environment for my students. This includes researching topics, collaborating with others for new information and ideas, and coming up with unique ways to instill a sense of excitement for learning in my classroom. I not only set expectations for my students, but work to instill a sense of self-motivation so that they have high expectations for themselves as well. My expectations are sometimes different or unique to students depending on their academic levels, but I do expect the highest possible effort, work, and achievement that each student is capable of reaching. These expectations require students to be committed to being present, engaged, and prepared for learning each and every day. As a special education teacher, I also have the expectation of myself that I will always continue to learn. One of the most important responsibilities teachers have to themselves and to their students is to continue exploring and learning about topics that are new and intriguing. If a teacher is willing and open to exploration, her role as a teacher will continually be rejuvenated; she will continuously be engaged in the learning process alongside her students. She will be able to set the example for her students that no matter what stage you are at in your life, it is important to seek out information and inquire about new topics and ideas.