Michigan’s Special Education Teachers Excel K-12 Individuals with Disabilities

Special education teachers have many responsibilities, including preparing, adapting, and delivering instructional materials to individuals with different disabilities, from behavioral disorders to intellectual and physical challenges. Below are key responsibilities:

• Prepare and Adapt Instructional Materials: Special education teachers develop and modify curriculums based on each individual’s unique needs. This might involve creating custom lesson plans that make learning accessible and engaging for individuals.
• Evaluate Progress: Regular assessments help these teachers gauge classroom individuals’ academic and behavioral progress. This continuous evaluation ensures that each person receives the support they need. 
• Develop Educational Plans: Individualized education programs (IEPs) are the core of special education. Teachers collaborate with parents, other educators, and specialists to create tailored educational plans that address the specific needs and goals of each student. 
• Supervise and Guidance: Special educators play a crucial role in supervising individuals throughout their day—whether in the classroom, during school activities, or in social settings. This supervision helps them develop desirable study, work, and recreational habits. 
• Maintain Records and Reports: Special education teachers document individual’s  progress, prepare reports, and handle correspondence related to their work. This administrative aspect is vital for tracking development and communicating with school administrators. 
• Participate in Professional Development: Special education teachers engage in continuous professional training to provide the best possible education. 
• Foster Inclusive Environments: These teachers help keep a focus on inclusion, working to create an environment where every individual feels valued and capable of achieving their goals.

Bridget O’Reilly, special education teacher at Hardy Elementary, explained why she loves the profession, “I think they’re such a unique population. The compassion, the stories, the love that you get from the individuals with disabilities is unmatched.”

Another special educator from Hardy Elementary, Bethany Courtany, said, “You are working with the population of individuals that have the biggest barriers to learning and to see growth over time. There is no better feeling in the world (than) that.”