Lets Address Common Myths of Special Education!
SPECIAL EDUCATION MYTH BUSTERS
Special Education teachers are less qualified then general education teachers and are just glorified babysitters.
Special education teachers are highly trained professionals whose education and training actually goes beyond that of a general education teacher. Special education teachers role is complex, specialized, and essential to student success.
Special Education is only for students with Severe Disabilities.
Special Education serves a wide range of students with various disabilities, from mild learning difficulties to more severe conditions. It can include students with ADHD, dyslexia, autism, speech disorders, and physical disabilities to name a few. The focus is providing the necessary supports to help each student succeed, regardless of the severity of their needs.
Students in Special Education are not able to learn the same things as their peers.
Special Education students can learn just as much as their peers. The difference is that sped students may need different teaching strategies, different teaching methods, accommodations, modifications, to achieve the same academic goals. With the right supports, sped students can meet and exceed expectations, though learning may look different.
Special Education Teachers only work with students with disabilities.
While special education teachers primarily work with students with disabilities, they also collaborate with gen ed teachers to ensure all students have access to a quality education. They adapt lessons and create inclusive strategies to help students mainstream in classrooms too.
Inclusion means Special Education students are fully integrated into gen ed classrooms.
Inclusion is not about forcing all sped students into a gen ed classroom. It is about providing opportunities for students to engage with peers while ensuring they receive the support they need. Some students may benefit from a mix of sped and gen ed, while others may thrive better in aa more specialized setting.
Special Education services are only about academics.
Special Education services also focus on social, emotional, gross motor, fine motor, and behavioral support and development. These services might include speech therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, counseling, and more. The purpose is for students to develop skills beyond academics.
Special Education students will always need special education.
Many students in special education improve their skills over time and can eventually transition back to gen ed classes or move towards less intensive supports.
IEP’s are set in stone.
IEPs are not set in stone. They are flexible living documents that can be, and should be, updated as the student grows, develops, and needs change.