1. How have you kept up with the changes in Special Education Law?

Does your district

alert you if there are changes to a law/ a new law put in place, and is it your responsibility
to learn the changes?
It is imperative that all teachers keep up with Special Education law. Our Special
Education Department does an excellent job of making sure that we are all up-to-date on
the law and refreshing us each year. Even though we are made aware of the law, it is still
our responsibility to learn any changes. I didnt know is not an acceptable excuse.

2. How are general education teachers made known of the laws?

General education teachers and Special Ed teachers must collaborate at least weekly to
make sure everything is being followed in the IEPs. As a team we must make sure we are
all working together.

3. What is the most challenging part of the IEP process?

Overall, it is probably trying to get everyone on the IEP team working together as one.
As the case manager, I am in charge of getting data and input from parents, regular ed
teachers, special services, etc. There can be quite a few people on the IEP team and it is
imperative that you make sure everyone involved does their part.

4. What Law do you think is the most difficult to implement and follow?
From my experience, it is making sure that regular ed teachers read and follow the IEP.
SDIs are there to help our students succeed in the classroom. If you are teaching
Learning Support, you are not with your students every day in each class. It can be
difficult to make sure that everything is being followed daily. This goes back to
collaboration with you and the teachers. Talk and see what is working, whats not, and
what can be done to better accommodate the student.

5. What is the most common law infraction, and what are the consequences?
I dont know exactly, but what Ive seen and heard would have to do with inaccurate data
and progress monitoring. Most cases get taken to court because the IEP isnt being
followed or progress monitoring shows kids are meeting goals when they are actually
not.

6. How do you deal with a parent who tries to challenge you and your knowledge of the
law?
Let them speak. Hear them out and let them know we are all here for one reason- their
child. After they speak, explain how you are addressing any discrepancies they believe
are happening.
7. How does the district support you when it comes to the IEP process?
Our LEAs, school psychologist, special education secretaries, and director all do a
wonderful job supporting us when needed. If you have a question about any part of the
process they are always willing to lend a helping hand.
8. How are the paraprofessionals in your room utilized? Are they included in the IEP
process?
I have two paraprofessionals. They follow the students to their regular education classes
and support them as needed. They are the most underrated part of the IEP process. They
are my eyes when I am not around. I have to trust them to carry out the law and make
sure our students are getting what they need to succeed. In our room they help in many
ways. They help keep me organized, take accurate data, and help with personal care
needs of students, and so on. Their input in the process are the ones I listen to the most.

9. What advice could you give to a new teacher going into special education, or working
with students in the general education classroom?

Curriculum and laws will continuously change. No one gets into teaching because of
them. We do it because we love to have an impact on young peoples lives. So dont get
overwhelmed by all the other responsibilities you will be given. Have a positive attitude,
youre going to have highs and lows. Dont take anything personally. From kids or your
supervisors. Kids will say things to gain or escape something. When you are observed
and you get critique back use it to better yourself. No one is perfect, learn from others
and make yourself better each day. Laugh, have fun, theres enough paperwork and laws
to drive you crazy. Always remember, tomorrow is a new day.

One of my favorite quotes that I took it heart was from the late Coach John Wooden.

He said, No written word, no spoken plea can teach our youth what they should be.
Nor all the books on all the shelves, it's what the teachers are themselves.

Be yourself and you will succeed.

10. What do you find to be the hardest part of working with children with disabilities, and
what is the most rewarding?
What works one day may not work the next day. Reviewing the same concepts every day
and thinking, is it me, what am I doing wrong, am I a bad teacher? You live for small
victories and those a ha moments. When the lightbulb finally goes off, you will find
yourself more excited than the student!