Special Education Instructors and Assistants
Special Education Teachers or Education Specialists are responsible for creating a flexible program and learning environment that provides specialized instruction for students with disabilities, such that students benefit from the general education curriculum to the greatest extent possible when supported with supplemental aids, adapted materials, and accommodations. The Education Specialist plans and provides appropriate learning experiences for students with disabilities in a variety of educational settings. They develop Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) in order to adapt educational requirements to meet the needs of struggling students. Direct instructional services are provided within the general education classroom or a within separate resource classroom environment. They supervise instructional services by para-educators, and provide indirect support to general education teachers.
Instructional Assistant's (IAs) are trained team members who assist special education teachers with instruction for students with disabilities. In special education they work under the supervision of a Special Education teacher, and their duties range from facilitating students' ability to complete school work more independently to providing one-on-one instruction. Instructional Assistants may assist in the implementation of Individualized Education Program goals for students with learning disabilities. They can significantly influence the success of students with exceptionalities, assisting students in ways that a classroom instructor might not be able to do, such as providing each student with more time and attention. Further, they can aid in making the classroom more accessible to students with varying abilities.