What is co-teaching?

Co-teaching has recently been adopted by several schools in CCSD93 due to its many benefits. The co-teaching model is where two teachers share the responsibility for all students in a classroom. In co-taught classrooms, teachers get to collaborate in lesson design, instruction, and decision making on a daily basis.

This is an inclusive model that includes a classroom population of general education students and several students who receive special education services. Both general education teacher and special education teacher are in the classroom at all times, supporting and teaching all students.

What are the benefits?

The partnership of two highly-qualified teachers in one classroom proves to have many benefits to your child.

• Students will have the opportunity to be taught in a more individualized manner.
• Students benefit from the experience of two highly qualified teachers with different areas of expertise.
• This model allows more opportunities for cooperative learning structures, differentiated learning activities, and a universal design for learning approach that gives each student what they need to be successful.
• This model allows teachers to teach using a much wider variety of lesson formats. For example, we will regularly be able to utilize small groups or splitting the class.
• Students with disabilities are provided access to the general education curriculum and general education setting.
• Promotes a classroom culture of acceptance and embracing diversity.

Questions?

As the year goes on, please do not hesitate to contact both of us if you have any questions. You may contact us via email or by calling the school. You are always welcome to speak with either one of us about your child and his or her needs.

We are looking forward to successful and collaborative school year!

Sources:

Kluth, Paula, and Julie Causton. 30 Days to the Co-taught Classroom: How to Create an Amazing, Nearly Miraculous & Frankly Earth-shattering Partnership in One Month or Less. Minneapolis, MN: North Loop, 2016. Print.

Ferry, Melissa. "The Benefits of Co-Teaching for Students with Special Needs - Friendship Circle - Special Needs Blog." Friendship Circle -- Special Needs Blog. Special Needs Resources, 12 Nov. 2013. Web. 13 June 2017.