I am a special education teacher at an elementary school. This year was my first experience with inclusion - in a language arts classroom. I believe that most of the special education students in the class have benefited from this experience. However, I do have a personal issue with my inclusion experience. Honestly, I have felt like an over qualified paraprofessional. My role has been to assist the teacher in her role of teaching and running the classroom. The students and parents do not view me as a creditable educator. The students are benefiting from the class, so maybe I am being selfish. I miss having my own classroom.
Monday, April 7, 2008
I am a special education teacher at an elementary school. This year was my first experience with inclusion - in a language arts classroom. I believe that most of the special education students in the class have benefited from this experience. However, I do have a personal issue with my inclusion experience. Honestly, I have felt like an over qualified paraprofessional. My role has been to assist the teacher in her role of teaching and running the classroom. The students and parents do not view me as a creditable educator. The students are benefiting from the class, so maybe I am being selfish. I miss having my own classroom.
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I understand your dilemna. I have taught with the same teacher for three years now. The first year I felt more like a parapro. It takes a while to feel comfortable in someone else's classroom, and to define each teacher's role. I have also had to become more familiar with the curriculum. Be open to telling your colleague that you are ready to contribute more. Communicate and give it time. Good luck.
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