Special Education is taught by different teachers within the Fair Grove District. Teachers who are in special education at Fair Grove High School and elementary are Krista Miller and Betsy Small who have various techniques to help teach their students.
Small is a high school special education teacher and teaches various ways in English Language Art (ELA) for her students. She said, “I focus on teaching ELA with different abilities. However, I assist students in my classroom with all academic areas. This year, Mr. Holt and I have begun teaching a transition class that focuses on preparing students for life after high school.”
Miller teaches early childhood special education for the elementary school at Fair Grove, and mentioned the specifics of her class, “early childhood… which is composed of students from three to five years of age.”
Special education and childhood are similar and different in certain ways. Miller explained, “Teaching special education involves several key differences compared to general education, primarily focused on meeting the unique needs of students with disabilities.”
She added the specifics of what it takes to teach her class, “To foster learning and development, special education requires a deeper understanding of individual needs, specialized strategies, and a collaborative approach to support students effectively.”
There are various ways to teach special education and give attention to the needs of students. Small explained, “I try to tailor my teaching to the student’s needs. It can require different methods for different students during the same class period.”
Teaching special education is not just learning how to read, write, or do math, but also behavioral learning. Miller verbalized, “Working with young students with behavioral needs is a passion of mine. One of my biggest and most steadfast combinations of techniques for my students is patience, space, and song.”
Miller added that she makes a connection with them, “I create a relationship with my students, never making them feel scared or threatened in any way.”
Special Education students’ learning is affected by what they need. Miller mentioned, “Students can vary widely depending on their individual needs, abilities, and the specific they may have.”
She included the approaches that she takes to help her students’ learning experiences, “There are several common characteristics… Overall , learning for special education students is highly individualized and responsive to their specific needs and emphasizes a holistic approach that supports both academic and personal development.”
Special Education teachers receive IEP (individualized education plan). Small shared, “This document explains his or her educational needs. The IIEP “(International Institute for Educational Planning)” also provided information modification, and/or accommodations.”
Special Education is taught and shown in different ages throughout the Fair Grove School District and helps reach the needs of the students and be able to prepare them for the future.