Transitioning into and out of special education can be a challenge for any student. Students can feel anxious, scared and fearful during these transition times, but there are ways to make the transition to and from special education much smoother.
- Toward Special Education: The IEP. When transitioning into a special education environment, an IEP (Individualized Education Plan) must be written for that child.A child cannot officially be considered as a special education student unless an IEP is written by a team of people who have observed the child and are able to offer opinions on why special education is a good choice for him. An IEP meeting will be held, with several different people in attendance. The student is always welcome and encouraged to attend, along with the principal of the school, the school social worker, the school psychologist, the district's special education director, the school counselor, the general education teacher or teachers, the special education teacher and the parents of the student. At this meeting, it will be determined how much time in a special education class is necessary and what goals and objectives the student must reach during his or her time in special education for that year. With the student attending the meeting, she can give her input if she is able, and it may just give her a better feeling about the entire process.
- Toward Special Education: Orientation. Students transitioning into special education should be allowed a tour of the special education classroom before their actual start date in that room. The student should also be able to meet his new teacher and classmates, kind of likea meet-and-greet for the new student. A transition into special education can be much smoother when the student just starting out can get a feel for the classroom, the teacher and the other kids with whom he will be spending time. Sometimes by simply meeting the teacher and seeing what a non-threatening environment the new room is, a student's transition is much easier.
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Author: Kaye Siders