Launching a Career in Special Education

Your Action Plan for Success
by
Elizabeth A. Potts, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor of Special Education
Missouri Western State University
St. Joseph, Missouri
and
Lori A. Howard, Ph.D.
Associate Professor of Special Education
Marshall University

Contents

• About the Authors
• Foreword Kristin L. Sayeski
• Preface
• Section I Introduction
  • Chapter 1 Getting Started
    • Book Setup
    • Create Your Own Planning Timeline
    • Beginning Your Journey
• Section II The Daily Work of a Teacher
  • Chapter 7 Behavior Management
• Section III Beyond Instruction
  • Chapter 8 IEP: The Legal Document
  • Chapter 9 Classroom Observations
• Section IV Working as a Professional Within a School
  • Chapter 10 Cooperating Teacher: Your New Best Friend
  • Chapter 14 Teaching as a Career

About the Authors

Elizabeth A. Potts, Ph.D. earned a bachelor of science degree in liberal studies and a master’s degree in education, with an emphasis on special education, from Longwood College in Virginia. She earned a doctoral degree with an emphasis on mild disabilities from the University of Virginia. Dr. Potts is an assistant professor.

Lori A. Howard, Ph.D. is an Associate Professor of special education at Marshall University and a recipient of the 2015 Pickens-Queen Award for Teaching Excellence. Dr. Howard teaches courses related to introduction to special education, reading and math strategies for students with disabilities, inclusion, and disability perspectives. She earned a master’s degree in educational audiology from the University of Northern Colorado. She began her career in special education working with students who are deaf and the hearing impaired. Subsequently, she earned a doctoral degree from the University of Virginia in educational psychology.

Foreword

The initial dive into teaching, whether through student teaching or your first year, is a critical juncture. Highs include making meaningful connections with students and deepening your professional identity. Lows emerge with the overwhelming reality of the job. This book serves as a guide through these experiences.

Preface

As the authors, we desire you to find practical tips that ease your teaching journey. We provide resources and strategies to maximize your positive impact on students.

Section I Introduction

Chapter 1 Getting Started

Beginning something new can be intimidating. This book is crafted as your field guide for navigating your teaching path.

Book Setup

Each chapter is structured to help you maximize learning, with clear headings and focused content.

Create Your Own Planning Timeline

Consider forming a timeline for essential tasks to help keep you organized. This timeline can guide you in preparing for your teaching responsibilities from day one.

Chapter Excerpts

Chapter 8 IEP: The Legal Document

• Parts of the IEP
• Running the Meeting

Chapter 9 Classroom Observations

• Planning for Observations
• Preparing Your Students

As you navigate through your teaching career, it's essential to reflect on your experiences and adapt your practices for continual improvement. This resource is designed to support special educators at various stages of their careers.