Opening Statement:
Being a former student of Special Education for all of my school years, I can honestly say my experience was much more negative than positive. Unfortunately, quite a few of my teachers did not have a full understanding of what my various developmental hidden disabilities were, how to teach and encourage me, or had the patience not only for my difficulties but for my classmates’ challenges as well. Another negative was, students who had behavioral problems were put in special education self-contained classes as I was in. Having behavioral students in my classes was not a good situation at all. Being bullied often by the behavioral students as well as some of the mainstream students did not help my self-esteem and added to my anxiety. Socially it was not a good situation because special education students were separated from the mainstream students. It was not encouraged for any of us to mingle with each other. The positive part was smaller classes and in elementary school there was an teachers aid in the classroom for one-on-one individual assistance.
What This Important Day is All About and Its History and Special Dates:
· Special Education Day is celebrated on December 2 to commemorate the signing of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act into law on this day in 1975 (IDEA).
· IDEA granted access to children with special needs to free and quality public education.
· The act has been revised several times but the core of it remains the same, and is the foundation for special education in the U.S.
· In support of this act, many organizations pledge to provide good education to students with special needs.
· 1975 - IDEA is Born
President Gerald Ford signs the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) on November 29.
· 1982 - A New Milestone
A court ruling approves access to special programs for meeting the unique needs of students.
· 2004 - Regulations are Revised
IDEA is reauthorized with revised regulations.
What Does a Special Education Teacher Do Daily?
The roles and responsibilities of a special education teacher are tougher than that of a regular teacher. Daily tasks include attending meetings, planning attainable goals, execution of lesson plans, tracking the progress of students and maintaining their records, following up with parents, grading assignments, and more.
How to Observe Special Education Day
· Read The IDEA Legislation
Explore the impact IDEA has had on the lives of children with disabilities. Read about the framework it provides and the recent revisions in the legislation.
· Join The Conversation
Be the voice for disabled children everywhere. Participate in discussions in person or online and share stories of those you know who have benefited from improved special education.
· Volunteer
Look for opportunities to volunteer in special education programs in your local community. Many institutes require volunteers after school to assist and spend time with special children.
5 Facts About Special Education Everyone Should Know
1. The Father of Special Education
French physician Jean-Marc-Gaspard Itard is considered the father of special education.
2. The Ratio of Boys to Girls
Approximately four times as many boys as girls are diagnosed with a learning disability.
3. It Is Limited
Special education laws provide mostly for primary and secondary school levels.
4. There Is a Difference
There is a distinct difference between learning disabilities and intellectual disabilities.
5. Famous People with Disabilities
Walt Disney, Thomas Edison, and Albert Einstein are famous people who had learning disabilities and special educational needs.
Why Special Education Day is Important
· It Dismisses Misconceptions About Disabilities
Students with disabilities are often misunderstood. Many believe that such students have learning impediments when that is not the case. Special Education Day addresses this misconception.
· It’s A Chance to Thank the Teachers
Special Education is not possible without the efforts of the teachers and educators who relentlessly help their students achieve their educational goals. It also highlights the need for specialized educational teachers.
Closing Statement and Message:
It is without a doubt, all children are our future. Importantly, this should always include young adults with various disabilities. Additionally, with the combined efforts of activists, advocates, and state-level officials, special needs youths are supported in this difficult and most important journey. Potentially it may inspire future students to pursue a career in specialized education or in healthcare assisting and supporting various special needs individuals as a physical therapist, occupational therapy, mental health counselors, or social work. To my readers, please do not let my negative experiences in special education discourage and dampen your relationships and opinions on the present or future educators of your children with disabilities. Since my graduation in 2016, I’m sure there have been improvements in inclusive environments and additional knowledge and training with special education teachers and case managers.
Source of Information: Various Google Searches and Personal Experiences
Until Next Week, Stay Safe and Well!
Comments