What is the primary role of a Special Education teacher?

The primary role of a Special Education teacher centers around managing the Individualized Education Program (IEP) team and providing accommodations tailored to meet the unique needs of students with disabilities. This encompasses collaborating with parents, general education teachers, and other specialists to develop and implement effective educational strategies that promote students' academic, social, and emotional growth.

Managing the IEP team involves not only creating individualized learning plans that support the specific goals and needs of each student but also ensuring that these plans are executed in the classroom. This may include adapting teaching methods, modifying assignments, and ensuring the appropriate resources and support are in place to help students succeed. The focus on collaboration and personalization is essential, as it ensures that students receive the targeted instruction and assistance they require to thrive in an educational setting.

While monitoring student attendance, teaching general education subjects, and conducting standardized testing are important aspects of the educational environment, they do not define the core responsibilities of a Special Education teacher. Instead, the emphasis on managing the IEP process and providing necessary accommodations is what distinguishes their role in supporting students with disabilities.