Once you've taken the classes, completed the tests, and written many papers, your chance to teach is finally here! But, what is life like as Student Teacher in Special Education?
Emily Reed, a Student Teacher at Amelia Earhart Elementary, shared her schedule to give you a look into your future day to day.
Monday through Thursday:
8:10-8:45 Preparation
8:45-9:15 5th grade reading
9:15-9:45 6th grade reading
9:45-10:30 1st grade reading
10:45-11:45 2nd grade reading and writing
11:45-12:20 Lunch
12:20-1:00 Preparation
1:00-1:30 2nd grade math
1:30-1:45 Preparation
1:45-2:15 2nd grade math
2:15-2:30 1st grade math
2:30-2:45 Preparation
2:45-3:10 5th grade math
3:10-3:50 Preparation and meetings
Friday:
Friday schedules look a bit different for Emily. After a few reading focus groups with 2nd and 1st graders, she uses these days to administer tests and set up IEP goals. Then, the afternoon is set apart for meetings.
All grade lessons are done either with individual students or with a small focus group of about 5 to 7 students. These focus groups allow a teacher to direct their attention to each individual's needs. During Emily's preparation she plans for upcoming instruction, but also prepares assessments and observations to either be administered or reviewed.
In addition to her student teaching Emily works as a TA for Professor Sabey at BYU. So, in order to maintain a healthy work-life balance, Emily tries to keep schoolwork at school. However, there are days she may bring home an occasional student assessment or lesson plan, which helps her stay on top of it all.
Student teaching can sound intimidating. However, it is an opportunity to do exactly what you love with the help of a mentor teacher and specialized guide who can give personalized instruction and feedback. It is a chance to do exactly what you've been waiting to do!