The artifacts in this section were developed during two elective classes in Special Education. Since I am a Special Education Case Manager & Inclusion teacher I felt that these would support both my educational and professional goals. The needs of Special Education Students are often overlooked, and it is my mission to make sure that happens less frequetly.
SPED524- Characteristics of Students with Mild Disabilities
This course examined the characteristics of students identified as having emotional and/or behavioral disorders, intellectual disabilities (formerly called mental retardation), & learning disabilities. Within this class we studied state & federal rules/regulations, instructional strategies, and types of assessments. The artifacts below include two case studies, a cooperative learning activity, a parent interview, and a SPED critical Concepts Power Point.
One of the requirements for SPED524 was to write a course reflection. I have included a link to that reflection below. I learned a great deal of useful information and found a plethora of resources to use for the benefit of my special education students by taking this course.
SPED528- Special Education Law
In this course I learned about the history of special education litigation & legislation. My studies covered the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act (IDEA), individual education plans (IEPs), free appropriate education (FAPE), & least restrictive environment (LRE) criterias. The artifacts below are a sampling of what was developed by me during this class.
I learned so much during this course that has helped me be a better SPED case manager. In any position at a school a teacher is expected to hit the ground running when they walk into the door. I was transferred into the SPED department during Covid, and had no clue how to be a case manager, much less what rules &/or regulations were involved in my new position. Proof that being knowledgable enough to pass a certification test does not necessarily mean you know what to do! My only saving grace was that I had raised two special needs children, so I knew SPED from a parent's perspective. I believe that personal knowledge helped me develop my Parent's Guide web site to cover everything that was needed from a parent's view point. I have a deeper respect for any legislation regarding SPED & a deep respect for all those who have fought to ensure students with special needs get the support that they need.