Subbing in Special Ed.

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Subbing in Special Ed.
By Bren

My degree is in Special Education and I have taught at the middle school level. This is my first year subbing and I cringe each time I'm called for Special Ed., so I understand how the subs feel. In my case, it's because
my experience is with K-6 and most of my calls are for ages 14-17 SED. There are things I know about the situation in advance that give me some relief. Perhaps if the sub. caller was able to give more information someone might not be so hesitant to take the job. And if the day goes well and he/she knows you have requested them specifically you could have a regular sub. that the students

are used to.
When I get the call I always ask the age of the students and the type of classroom. If it is in a placement facility I already know that there will be an aide in the classroom and/or someone available all day. Most rooms that I've worked in have phones and the nearby teachers have been quick to introduce themselves and offer help. Finally, the saving grace is that Special Education teachers seem much more likely to leave more thorough lesson plans or activities that they know will keep the students at their best behavior. The plus at the middle/high school level is that while students in regular education are quick to take advantage of a substitute, students in special education can't wait to impress us with what they know and how they can help.
Good luck! I know it's a frustrating situation to be in. If it's a district-wide problem perhaps the school would consider an ad in the local paper for Special Education Substitutes.