My Initial Perceptions And Communication With Families With Disabilities

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Reflecting on my initial perceptions and communication with families with disabilities has evolved. Initially, I thought that inclusion classes were an injustice to all students. Initially my perception was that inclusion impairs the growth of a student without a disability, and that it’s too overwhelming for a student with a disability to be among a large group of students learning at different levels. Nevertheless, over the past four years of teaching in both settings my perceptions have evolved with an understanding that students must have equal membership and acceptance regardless of their disability. My experience with young adults with disabilities has been rewarding. I currently teach math in the Occupational Course of Study program (OCS), and have two Math II inclusion classes. Second semester, I will be transitioning to teaching OCS Financial Management, and …show more content…

Although, I am apprehensive about teaching biology and getting all new students for second semester this will be a new beginning. I continue to grow in the field of special education by expanding my knowledge through professional development and practice. As an educator, I must communicate with my general education colleagues to create a cohesive learning environment that is safe, meaningful, and fosters cultural understanding. Additionally, I use collaboration with families to facilitate personalized planning and transitions of individuals with disabilities across a wide range of settings and different learning experiences. It is important for families and educators work together to address concerns so that all learners are successful. As an educator, I view parents as resource for addressing not only academic, but behavior concerns as well. Communication with students and families help me maintain trusting relationships.
James (not his real name) was one of my students in the Occupational Course of Study program (OCS), three years ago. James would come to class but had known