My goal is to reduce dependency on teachers and other adults in a classroom that contains SWD. I chose this goal as it has been proven that highly effective classrooms and pedagogy “run” themselves and the teacher/assistant are not the only figures in the classroom that students can learn from. Unfortunately, adult dependency is usually high in self-contained and ICT settings from my experience.

To cultivate a (SPED) classroom with strong peer-to peer connections I plan or have already started the following:

All students are unique: Students in special education programs are provided with an Individualized Education Program, which provides specific accommodations, modifications, and/or supports that are needed in order for the student to make progress. It is fundamental to know our students as individuals instead of identifying them by their diagnosis and or disability.

Engagement: It is important to acknowledge students’ feelings and their lived experiences. To keep engagement flourishing I will continue to incorporate my student interests/experiences into activities, projects and lessons. 

Social Emotional: I will continue to find strategies and tools that support my students social emotional growth. I will continue to build a classroom environment that is non-judgmental, kind and respectful. 

Scaffolding and Differentiation: I will continue to seek out meaningful interventions and strategies that strengthen my students critical thinking skills, provide them with equitable opportunities to display and highlight their own individual strengths and talents.

Celebrate Success: I understand that it is fundamental to show students that you care about them as students and as individuals. Celebrating my students successes and accomplishments no matter how small encourages my students to keep motivated and do not give up. I want my students to understand that they are “seen and valued”.