When working with special education teachers, you can help them prepare for a successful first year in the classroom. Even though education has prepared teachers for their field, there may be some anxiety about what will actually take place in the classroom. A great first year is possible, and here are some of the things they should keep in mind to hit the ground running.

Develop a Positive Connection With the Parents

More than likely, the school will hold an open house event to give the parents and students a chance to meet the teachers. Teachers don’t have to wait until this time to reach out and make contact with their student’s caregivers. Have them send a personal email or letter, or make a phone call to introduce themself and learn a bit more about the child in the class. Establish a positive connection by working with the parents as partners in their child’s education and well-being. Keep working on this relationship throughout the year by sending home notes, making phones calls and holding parent/teacher meetings.

Stay Proactive With IEPs

The Individualized Education Program created for each student must remain a priority throughout the year. This is a crucial way for parents, educators and relevant support staff to stay aware of the child’s needs. Because there are many elements to IEPs, here are a few tasks to remember.

1. Organize and Review IEPs Before School Starts

Before a teacher sets foot in the classroom, he or she should be well aware of the different needs represented by the students. This can be found out by reading through each IEP and keeping them organized. Encourage teachers to make a one-page summary sheet and highlight important goals or needs for accommodations. The schedule for each day should meet the service minutes needed by the students.

2. Mark Each IEP Due Date

Deadlines and timelines are vital parts of being a special education teacher. In addition to their duties of planning lessons and daily instruction, they need to hold IEP meetings within specified timeframes. When looking through the IEPs, have them mark a desk calendar or set reminders on a digital calendar for each due date. Work other meetings around these busy times. This also gives them plenty of preparation time for holding successful, informative meetings.

Rely on a Mentor

A school may provide new hires with a mentor during their first year of instruction. Observe the way the mentor conducts IEP meetings or ask if a mentor will sit in on the new teacher’s first few IEP meetings. Encourage them to lean on their mentor and ask for help when needed.

Take It One Day at a Time

It’s normal for any teacher to get anxious when the school year is about to start, but particularly for first-year teachers. These tips can help your clients experience a smooth, productive first year in the classroom.

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