I love it!

Home

Chat

Blogs

Collection

Directory

Home : 2004 : January : 17

I love it!
By Beth

Christy, this is my 3rd year teaching and I teach 8th grade resource room. I also do in-class support for students who have been mainstreamed. I teach students who are learning disabled. My students typically have dyslexia,
auditory processing issues, ADD, ADHD, OCD, Asbergers, hearing impared, mildly emotionally disurbed... They are great kids that are unsuccessful in school because they are still learning to cope with their disabilities.
Honestly, I love the type of kids I teach. I don't think I could work with signifigantly handicapped students. I am in awe of the people who do that everyday. I think

it is truly a personal decision, based on what you enjoy. I taught as a regular ed teacher for one year and HATED it. I wanted to be able to concentrate on those kids who were really struggling, but I had 25 students with a range of abilities...

I honestly find my job rewarding. There are some days (like in ANY profession) when I go home EXAUSTED. What I find most frustrating is working with other teachers who lack the understanding needed to teach these kids (and think "if they only put in more effort..") That is the hardest part for me, constantly advocating for your kids against everyone. The kids are... kids. They are eighth graders, they do silly 8th grade things.

I would suggest observing teachers and working with kids in different settings. When I was in college I pursued my special ed certification because I knew it would help me land a job. I never thought I would love it as much as I do.
Best of luck figuring out what you want to do.