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Thank You Note for Special Education Teacher: A Guide to Expressing Gratitude
Finding the right words to thank a special education teacher can feel daunting. These educators dedicate themselves to nurturing and supporting students with unique needs, often going above and beyond the call of duty. This comprehensive guide will help you craft a heartfelt and meaningful thank you note, ensuring your appreciation is truly felt. We'll explore various approaches, provide examples, and offer tips to make your message resonate. Whether it's for a specific achievement, consistent support, or simply their unwavering dedication, this post provides the tools to express your sincere gratitude effectively.
Why Saying Thank You Matters
Special education teachers face unique challenges and rewards. They often work with smaller class sizes, requiring individualized attention and tailored learning plans. Their expertise goes beyond academics; they often become advocates for their students, navigating complex systems and advocating for the best possible support. A simple "thank you" acknowledges their hard work and dedication, fostering a positive relationship and boosting morale within the often challenging special education environment. This act of gratitude can have a profound impact, reminding them of the value of their work and inspiring them to continue their exceptional efforts.
Understanding Your Audience: Tailoring Your Message
Before crafting your thank you note, consider the teacher's personality and your relationship with them. A formal note may be appropriate for a teacher you don't know well, while a more personal and casual tone works better for someone you have a closer relationship with. Think about what specifically you want to thank them for – was it their patience, their innovative teaching methods, their support for your child's social-emotional development, or something else entirely? Focusing on specific examples will make your gratitude more impactful.
Types of Thank You Notes: From Formal to Personal
Formal Thank You Note: This is best for a teacher you have a less personal relationship with or for situations where professionalism is paramount. Stick to a more formal tone, focusing on specific achievements and using proper grammar and punctuation.
Example:
> Dear Ms. Johnson,
> I am writing to express my sincere gratitude for your dedication and hard work this year with [child's name]. I was particularly impressed by your innovative approach to [specific teaching method or achievement]. Your patience and understanding have been invaluable to [child's name]'s progress. Thank you again for your exceptional teaching.
> Sincerely,
> [Your Name]
Informal Thank You Note: If you have a closer relationship with the teacher, feel free to use a more casual and personal tone. Share specific anecdotes and express your appreciation in a warmer, more conversational manner.
Example:
> Dear Mrs. Smith,
> I just wanted to express how incredibly grateful I am for everything you've done for [child's name] this year. I'll never forget how you helped [him/her] overcome [specific challenge]. Your positive attitude and genuine care have made a world of difference. Thank you for being such a wonderful teacher!
> Warmly,
> [Your Name]
Beyond Words: Adding a Personal Touch
A handwritten note always carries more weight than an email. Take the time to write your note by hand on quality stationery. Consider adding a small, thoughtful gift to accompany your note, such as a gift card to a coffee shop or a plant. However, avoid overly expensive gifts – the gesture of gratitude is what matters most.
Including Specific Examples: Making Your Message Meaningful
The most impactful thank you notes include specific examples of the teacher's positive influence. Instead of simply saying "You're a great teacher," mention a specific instance where the teacher went above and beyond. For example:
"Thank you for staying late to help [child's name] with his reading."
"I really appreciated your patience with [child's name] during his challenging moments."
"Your creative approach to teaching [subject] made learning fun and engaging for [child's name]."
Proofreading and Presentation: Leaving a Lasting Impression
Before sending your thank you note, carefully proofread it for any grammatical errors or typos. Ensure your handwriting is legible if you're writing by hand. The presentation of your note reflects the care and consideration you put into expressing your gratitude.
Delivering Your Note: When and How
Aim to deliver your thank you note within a reasonable timeframe – ideally, before the end of the school year or shortly thereafter. Hand-delivering the note allows for a personal interaction, but mailing it is perfectly acceptable as well.
The Power of Collective Gratitude: Organizing a Class Thank You
Consider organizing a class-wide thank you for the teacher. Pooling resources allows for a more substantial gift or a more elaborate thank you note signed by all the parents and students.
The Long-Term Impact of Showing Appreciation
Showing appreciation to special education teachers not only benefits the individual teacher but also reinforces the importance of their often-overlooked work. It helps create a more supportive environment for these dedicated educators, encouraging them to continue their valuable contributions to the lives of their students.
Name and Brief Outline of Article Contents:
Article Title: Thank You Note for Special Education Teacher: A Guide to Expressing Gratitude
Outline:
Introduction: Hook, overview of the post.
Chapter 1: Why saying thank you matters.
Chapter 2: Understanding your audience and tailoring your message.
Chapter 3: Types of thank you notes (formal and informal examples).
Chapter 4: Adding a personal touch (gifts, handwritten notes).
Chapter 5: Including specific examples.
Chapter 6: Proofreading and presentation.
Chapter 7: Delivering the note.
Chapter 8: Collective gratitude.
Chapter 9: Long-term impact of showing appreciation.
Conclusion: Recap and final thoughts.
FAQs
Related Articles
(The body of this article already fulfills the outline above.)
FAQs:
1. What is the best way to thank a special education teacher? A handwritten note expressing specific examples of their positive impact is always appreciated, possibly accompanied by a small, thoughtful gift.
2. Should I give a gift to my child's special education teacher? A small, thoughtful gift is a nice gesture but not required. The heartfelt thank you note is the most important element.
3. What if I don't know the teacher well? Opt for a more formal thank you note, focusing on specific achievements and maintaining a professional tone.
4. How much should I spend on a gift for a special education teacher? There's no set amount; a small token of appreciation is sufficient. Focus on the sentiment, not the price tag.
5. When is the best time to send a thank you note? Ideally, before the end of the school year or shortly thereafter.
6. Can I email a thank you note instead of writing one? While an email is quicker, a handwritten note carries more personal weight and is generally preferred.
7. What should I avoid writing in a thank you note? Avoid generic statements and focus on specific examples of the teacher's positive impact.
8. How can I involve other parents in expressing gratitude? Organize a class-wide thank you with a collective gift or a note signed by all parents.
9. Why is showing appreciation important for special education teachers? It acknowledges their hard work, boosts morale, and reinforces the importance of their role in the lives of their students.
Related Articles:
1. Teacher Appreciation Gift Ideas: Explores various thoughtful gift options for educators.
2. How to Write a Thank You Note to Your Child's Teacher: General guide to writing thank you notes to teachers.
3. The Importance of Parent-Teacher Communication in Special Education: Highlights the value of collaboration between parents and teachers.
4. Strategies for Supporting Children with Special Needs at Home: Provides practical tips for parents.
5. Finding the Right Special Education Resources for Your Child: Guides parents on finding appropriate resources.
6. Advocating for Your Child in the Special Education System: Offers advice on navigating the special education system.
7. Understanding Different Learning Disabilities: Explains various learning disabilities and their impact.
8. Creating a Positive Learning Environment at Home: Provides tips for creating a supportive learning environment.
9. The Role of Emotional Support in Special Education: Discusses the importance of social-emotional support for students with special needs.
| thank you note for special education teacher: Navigating Special Education Peggy Bud, Tamara Jacobson, 2024-06-01 This timely and innovative roadmap for parents, educators, and administrators highlights the importance of effective communication methodology, appropriate correspondence, and data collection recommendations. Effective communication is often missing from the IEP team’s conversation. Navigating Special Education provides a foundation for building proactive, positive partnerships that will lead to 21st century best practices for children. The 5-C Model of Communication—Conversation, Collaboration, Cooperation, Compromise, and Consensus—presented in Navigating Special Education helps to forge trusted alliances between school districts and families. Navigating Special Education draws upon the authors’ 60-plus years of combined experience by using: Anecdotal, evidence-based, real-life scenarios Templates for letter writing and extensive data collection A user-friendly appendix and glossary As stakeholders, wouldn’t you like to have successful meetings where everyone’s voice is heard, respected, and understood? After reading Navigating Special Education, families, educational professionals, college students, and special education organizations will be able to implement effective models of communication and build positive partnerships. |
| thank you note for special education teacher: The Effective Special Education Teacher Laurie U. deBettencourt, Lori A. Howard, 2015-07-24 This comprehensive, pedagogically rich guide aims to help teachers entering the rewarding field of special education become highly successful and competent. The authors’ thirty-plus years of experience interacting with teachers and learning their needs endows them with a deep understanding of important issues teachers encounter, as well as their concerns about employing the best teaching methods. The book’s well-structured, easy-to-follow sections are devoted to developing collaborative relationships, preparing individualized educational programs, writing lesson plans, selecting instructional and behavioral techniques, and understanding the teacher evaluation methods in current use today. Guidance is also provided for self-reflection and formulating future goals. Each chapter contains numerous vignettes, rubrics, templates, strategies, and stimulating activities. |
| thank you note for special education teacher: Teaching with Heart Sam M. Intrator, Megan Scribner, 2014-05-19 Each and every day teachers show up in their classrooms with a relentless sense of optimism. Despite the complicated challenges of schools, they come to and remain in the profession inspired by a conviction that through education they can move individuals and society to a more promising future. In Teaching with Heart: Poetry that Speaks to the Courage to Teach a diverse group of ninety teachers describe the complex of emotions and experiences of the teaching life – joy, outrage, heartbreak, hope, commitment and dedication. Each heartfelt commentary is paired with a cherished poem selected by the teacher. The contributors represent a broad array of educators: K-12 teachers, principals, superintendents, college professors, as well as many non-traditional teachers. They range from first year teachers to mid-career veterans to those who have retired after decades in the classroom. They come from inner-city, suburban, charter and private schools. The teachers identified an eclectic collection of poems and poets from Emily Dickinson, to Richard Wright, to Mary Oliver to the rapper Tupac Shakur. It is a book by teachers and for all who teach. The book also includes a poignant Foreword by Parker J. Palmer (The Courage to Teach), a stirring Introduction by Taylor Mali (What Teachers Make), and a moving Afterword by Sarah Brown Wessling (Teaching Channel). Where Teaching with Fire honored and celebrated the work of teachers; Teaching with Heart salutes the tenacious and relentless optimism of teachers and their belief that despite the many challenges and obstacles of the teaching life, much is possible. |
| thank you note for special education teacher: Student Development in College Nancy J. Evans, Deanna S. Forney, Florence M. Guido, Lori D. Patton, Kristen A. Renn, 2009-11-05 The second edition of Student Development in College offers higher education professionals a clear understanding of the developmental challenges facing today's college students. Thoroughly revised and updated, this edition includes new integrative theories of student development, expanded coverage of social identity theories, a targeted focus on higher education-related research, a current review of student development research and application, and reconceptualization of typology theories as a way to understand individual differences. Praise for the Second Edition of STUDENT DEVELOPMENT IN COLLEGE Student Development in College is a rich, comprehensive exploration of the major theoretical perspectives that inform development. The authors' attention to nuances and complexities results in a substantive history of theory development and a careful story about how various perspectives evolved yielding contemporary theorizing. The book is a masterful blend of theoretical lenses and their use in designing developmentally appropriate practice for diverse populations of contemporary college students. It is an excellent resource for all educators who work on college campuses. Marcia Baxter Magolda, Distinguished Professor, Educational Leadership, Miami University This is an invaluable work for anyone seeking an introduction to college student development theories or those seeking to update their existing knowledge. It offers a thorough and complex review of both the foundational theories and the newer often more culturally relevant theories and models. Raechele L. Pope, program coordinator, Higher Education Program, University at Buffalo The original book was a tremendous contribution to the field of higher education and especially student affairs. After more than ten years, this revision is a timely and focused enhancement to the literature that nurtures quality professionals to think differently about topics relevant to our field. Well done a second time around! Gregory Roberts, executive director, ACPA College Student Educators International |
| thank you note for special education teacher: #IMomSoHard Kristin Hensley, Jen Smedley, 2019-04-02 The New York Times bestseller. “Moms everywhere will want to pick up this relatable book for an #ILaughedSoHard read.” —Booklist Has it been months since you’ve read a book with actual adult words that had nothing to do with farm animals or superheroes or going potty? Well then, it’s time to take a break. Pour yourself some wine. Put on your comfy pants. All good? Ok, welcome to the party. Kristin Hensley and Jen Smedley, the creators of #IMOMSOHARD, know that you probably didn’t get to shower today and that the last thing you need is more advice on how to be a better parent. Instead, they invite you to join their laugh-out-loud, best friend banter on the eighty bajillion ways moms give their all every day—including: I KEEP IT TOGETHER SO HARD I BODY AFTER BABY SO HARD I HIT THE TOWN (AND AM IN BED BY 9:30 P.M.) SO HARD I BUST MY ASS SO HARD I KEEP FOOLS ALIVE SO HARD Come for the laughs, stay for the kinship with two friends who are just getting it right, getting it wrong, and leaning on each other for a laugh at the end of the day. They don’t care if your house is a mess and they won’t judge you if you pee a little when you sneeze. So kick back, relax, and enjoy. You deserve it. |
| thank you note for special education teacher: Survival Skills for the Principalship John Blaydes, 2004-01-22 This compilation of resources offers practical, ready-to-use solutions to the issues and dilemmas principals face every day. |
| thank you note for special education teacher: The Knowledge Gap Natalie Wexler, 2020-08-04 The untold story of the root cause of America's education crisis--and the seemingly endless cycle of multigenerational poverty. It was only after years within the education reform movement that Natalie Wexler stumbled across a hidden explanation for our country's frustrating lack of progress when it comes to providing every child with a quality education. The problem wasn't one of the usual scapegoats: lazy teachers, shoddy facilities, lack of accountability. It was something no one was talking about: the elementary school curriculum's intense focus on decontextualized reading comprehension skills at the expense of actual knowledge. In the tradition of Dale Russakoff's The Prize and Dana Goldstein's The Teacher Wars, Wexler brings together history, research, and compelling characters to pull back the curtain on this fundamental flaw in our education system--one that fellow reformers, journalists, and policymakers have long overlooked, and of which the general public, including many parents, remains unaware. But The Knowledge Gap isn't just a story of what schools have gotten so wrong--it also follows innovative educators who are in the process of shedding their deeply ingrained habits, and describes the rewards that have come along: students who are not only excited to learn but are also acquiring the knowledge and vocabulary that will enable them to succeed. If we truly want to fix our education system and unlock the potential of our neediest children, we have no choice but to pay attention. |
| thank you note for special education teacher: An Attitude and Approach for Teaching Music to Special Learners Elise S. Sobol, 2017-05-08 An international handbook of inspirational wisdom for teaching music universally to enhance the learning potential in children of all ages, backgrounds, and capabilities, An Attitude and Approachfor Teaching Music to Special Learners is a most accessible relevant reference to facilitate lifelong student learning. Its usefulness is equally versatile for music educators and classroom teachers, administrators and curriculum designers, instructional leaders in higher education as well as for parents and caregivers. Backed by research and driven by author’s passionate commitment to affect a better global future for our children, text revisions include updates in educational law, criteria for designating disability categories, accommodations, standards, definitions, trends, and notice of the significant societal strides made in the visibility and educational expectations of our students with developmental disabilities including those with autism spectrum disorders. Classroom tested inclusive music teaching and critical thinking strategies impact student success across the curriculum to help students meet grade level expectations for English Language Arts, science, social studies, and mathematics. |
| thank you note for special education teacher: If Your Adolescent Has an Anxiety Disorder Edna B. Foa, Linda Wasmer Andrews, 2006 THE MOST UP-TO-DATE INFORMATION ON: SOCIAL ANXIETY DISORDER, GENERALIZED ANXIETY DISORDER, OBSESSIVE-COMPULSIVE DISORDER, AND POST-TRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER. |
| thank you note for special education teacher: 194 High-Impact Letters for Busy Principals Marilyn L. Grady, 2006-07-21 Grady′s book encourages principals who are perpetually pressed for time to get to correspondence that languishes at the bottom of their to-do lists. My own correspondence has doubled since getting my hands on this book! —Cathie West, Principal Mountain Way Elementary School, Granite Falls, WA The letters cover a wide variety of topics and give administrators ideas on what kind of letters to write. After going through the letters, I realize that I need to send more letters of appreciation to parents and organizations. —Gina Segobiano, Principal/Superintendent Signal Hill School District 181, Belleville, IL Build a culture of care with positive communication! As the key communicators for schools, principals write a wide range of correspondence—from thank-you letters and congratulations to best wishes and other personal notes. Yet, this critical responsibility can easily fall victim to every administrator′s busy schedule. Marilyn Grady′s updated and expanded collection of letters is truly a time-saving starter kit, with user-friendly and easy-to-personalize templates to revitalize every busy administrator′s communications repertoire. This practical resource provides jargon-free templates useful for: Improving communication with parents, teachers, and other school stakeholders Initiating a letter-a-day plan to improve school culture Advancing parent education, health and wellness, and safety initiatives, among others Reminding you to communicate with all stakeholders Evaluating your current written communication Identifying areas where you could communicate more This targeted collection will add a new level of organization, efficiency, and effectiveness to your communication tasks. Unlock the secrets of effective communication and watch relationships on all levels flourish! Includes a PC- and Mac-compatible CD-ROM containing all letters for easy customization. |
| thank you note for special education teacher: Resources in Education , 1997 |
| thank you note for special education teacher: WISC-IV Clinical Use and Interpretation Aurelio Prifitera, Donald H. Saklofske, Lawrence G. Weiss, 2011-10-11 WISC-IV Clinical Use and Interpretation provides comprehensive information on using and interpreting the WISC-IV for clinical assessment and diagnosis. With chapters authored by recognized experts in intelligence research, test development, and assessment, this will be a valuable resource to anyone using the WISC-IV in practice. This information is available nowhere else and is a unique opportunity to understand the WISC-IV from the perspective of those who know it best. Most relevant to practitioners is the applied focus and interpretation of the WISC-IV in psychological and psychoeducational assessment.Divided into two sections, Section I discusses general advances in the assessment of children's intelligence, and how the WISC-IV differs from the WISC-III. Also discussed are the clinical considerations of this test, including the meaning of the FSIQ and four Index scores and how the WISC-IV relates to other assessment measures, including the WISC-IV Integrated. Section II discusses the use of WISC-IV with exceptional children, including those with learning disabilities, giftedness, mental retardation, hearing impairment, ADHD, neuropsychological injury, and/or cultural and ethnic differences.* Written by leading experts* Provides a comprehensive description of the WISC-IV from research to clinical practice* Discusses WISC-IV use with exceptional children including LD, AD/HD, Gifted, Mental Retardation, Language Disabilities, Hearing Impaired, Head/Brain Injury, and Cultural and Ethnically Different Children* Outlines integrated models of assessment of assessment that include the WISC-IV* Provides case studies illustrating WISC-IV clinical use* Contains additional validity data on WISC-IV not available elsewhere* Practical and directly relevant to practitioners who use the WISC-IV |
| thank you note for special education teacher: Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents , 1999 |
| thank you note for special education teacher: Making the System Work for Your Child with ADHD Peter S. Jensen, 2013-04-18 There’s lots of help out there for kids with ADHD, but getting it isn’t always easy. Where can you turn when you’ve mastered the basics and “doing everything right” isn’t enough--the insurer denies your claims, parent-teacher meetings get tense, or those motivating star charts no longer encourage good behavior? Dr. Peter Jensen has spent years generating ways to make the healthcare and education systems work--as the father of a son with ADHD and as a scientific expert and dedicated parent advocate. No one knows more about managing the complexities of the disorder and the daily hurdles it raises. Now Dr. Jensen pools his own experiences with those of over 80 other parents to help you troubleshoot the system without reinventing the wheel. From breaking through bureaucratic bottlenecks at school to advocating for your child’s healthcare needs, this straightforward, compassionate guide is exactly the resource you’ve been looking for. |
| thank you note for special education teacher: WISC-IV Clinical Assessment and Intervention Aurelio Prifitera, Donald H. Saklofske, Lawrence G. Weiss, 2008-08-08 The Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children: Fourth Edition (WISC-IV) is one of the most often used measures to assess intelligence and cognitive functions in children, ages 6-16 years. The second edition of the WISC-IV Clinical Assessment and Intervention will include new information obtained from the clinical use of the WISC-IV in practice. Information on the basic use of the assessment tool is condensed from three chapters into one, with four new chapters discussing how to use and interpret WISC-IV with additional clinical populations. These new populations include pervasive Developmental Disorders including autism, Social and emotional disorders, psychiatric disorders, and medical disorders that may affect intelligence. An additional new chapter discusses intervention planning across patient populations. Each of the chapters (revised original chapters and new chapters) will additionally include case studies including diagnosis and intervention.Overall, the material in the book is 65% changed, new, and updated. These changes make the second edition better able to meet a clinician's needs in using and interpreting this test. - Inclusion of case studies illustrating the clinical applications of the WISC-IV in assessment and program planning - Intervention recommendations following from assessment to diagnosis - Introductory chapter illustrating the relationships between the WISC-IV index scores and intervention planning - New chapters on Learning Disabilities, emotionally disturbed children, systematic illness, and Autism Spectrum Disorders - Specialized chapters on neuropsychological applications, executive functioning, and cultural issues - Additional information to aid test interpretation including extended norms for gifted children and the Cognitive Proficiency Index - All chapters revised to reflect data obtained from the test in clinical use |
| thank you note for special education teacher: Students with Disabilities and Special Education , 2009 |
| thank you note for special education teacher: IDEA United States. Congress. Senate. Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions, 2002 |
| thank you note for special education teacher: Equality and Diversity in Education 2 Felicity Armstrong, Mary Masterton, Patricia Potts, 2013-12-16 Like the first reader, this collection examines the grounds which are accepted for inclusion or exclusion of students, and looks at how appropriate support can be guaranteed for people who experience difficulties in learning, who are disabled or who experience social or other kinds of disability. This volume explores national and international contexts for educational practice and research and discusses practical, ethical and political issues which are relevant to undertaking that research. Part one covers issues facing local government and the consumers of educational services in the UK. Part two compares policy and practice in eleven different countries and part 3 discusses research which explores the issues of equality and diversity in education. This volume and her sister, Equality and Diversity in Education 1: Learning, Teaching and Managing in Schools are reraders for the Open University course, Developing Inclusive Curricula: Equality and Diversity in Education (E829). The two books in the series will appeal to teachers, non-teaching assistants and other school-based staff,parents,disabled people and those who have experienced difficulties in learning,social and health workers, and those working for voluntary organisations. |
| thank you note for special education teacher: Teachers Bringing Out the Best in Teachers Jo Blase, Joseph Blase, 2006-06-02 Most teachers have experienced some kind of formal mentoring or induction program. What these programs can miss is the meaningful daily interaction with peers that builds mutual trust and instructional collaboration-the organic, coachable moments that boost professional learning. Based on a unique investigative study of nearly 300 teachers, this powerful new resource provides informative teacher perspectives of informal, naturally occurring, teacher-to-teacher professional development. Jo and Joseph Blase use this research to identify the following five teacher behaviors that can positively influence other teachers morale, teaching skills, and professional growth. Building healthy relationships by communicating, caring, and developing trust Using five guiding principles for structuring learning experiences Planning and organizing for learning Showing and sharing Guiding for classroom management This excellent resource helps school leaders promote a culture that encourages lasting professional development. Each chapter presents practical concepts and strategies that can occur in and out of the classroom. Educators share specific experiences and examples, showing each skill in action. School leaders will learn what strong teacher peer consultants actually do that leads to improved teacher confidence and motivation, enhanced trust and mutual respect, and reflective instructional behavior among their colleagues. These cost-effective, authentic strategies will build camaraderie and leadership in your school, engaging colleagues as a team in the vital mission of all schools-educating our youth. |
| thank you note for special education teacher: Guiding Change in Special Education Ronald G. Havelock, James L. Hamilton, 2003-11-13 Create a new reality by guiding your team to successful changes in special education! Meeting the challenge of teaching a child with a disability...optimizing the potential of a classroom of troubled students...seeing the look of understanding on a child′s face—these are the ideals of special education. Making these ideals reality often requires change. As an educator, you realize this, and you would like to make a difference in your school. But how? Guiding Change in Special Education illustrates the seven stages of school change then, stage by stage, Havelock and Hamilton provide explanations and advice for incorporating each stage into your change process. At the core of the process are these change agents: Local educators trying to ensure that no child with a disability is left behind Parents advocating change because they care deeply about the cause Consultants available to help people act more effectively as a team Academics able to efficiently pinpoint needs within special education Experts with specialized knowledge to offer solutions to problems Informal marketing and sales people to help get the word out The Linker—an important player who connects people and resources, finds support, and helps organize the group Making changes can turn ideals into reality—applying the right process and building a team of dedicated people will yield success. |
| thank you note for special education teacher: Technology in the Classroom , 1992 |
| thank you note for special education teacher: Students with Disabilities and Special Education Law Oakstone Legal & Business Publishing, 2002 |
| thank you note for special education teacher: Bankruptcy Reform United States. Congress. House. Committee on the Judiciary. Subcommittee on Commercial and Administrative Law, 2000 |
| thank you note for special education teacher: Creating Content With Your Tablet Susan J. Brooks-Young, 2013-12-30 Transform students from content consumers to content creators! This comprehensive guide gets to the heart of effective mobile technology use in today’s classroom. Internationally recognized education expert Susan Brooks-Young provides manageable, research-based strategies to help teachers and administrators: Confidently plan and manage mobile technology activities across grade levels Explore new uses and applications for multiple devices Use rubrics and checklists to evaluate appropriate, cross-platform educational apps Manage content-specific tablet use in learning centers or small groups Tap student ingenuity and improve critical thinking skills Time-saving tips cover a wide range of apps to help busy teachers easily incorporate tablets into daily classroom use. Includes step-by-step instructions across content areas for digital photography, video, ePublishing, QR codes and more. Transform students from content consumers to content creators with this must-have resource! Creating Content With Your Tablet provides educators with simple, easy steps to implement tablet technology with the Common Core Standards. I am encouraged to try the apps in this book. It makes the connection between modern technology and what teachers are already doing in the classroom seem seamless. —Michelle Strom, Language Arts Teacher Fort Riley Middle School, KS Very practical. The discussion questions at the end of each chapter are excellent for a book study or district that is moving towards tablet implementation. —David Fife, Vice Principal Tweedsmuir Public School, London, Ontario, Canada |
| thank you note for special education teacher: PACEreport , 1968 |
| thank you note for special education teacher: Unconditional Education Robin Detterman, Jenny Ventura, Lihi Rosenthal, Ken Berrick, 2019-03-19 After decades of reform, America's public schools continue to fail particular groups of students; the greatest opportunity gaps are faced by those whose achievement is hindered by complex stressors, including disability, trauma, poverty, and institutionalized racism. When students' needs overwhelm the neighborhood schools assigned to serve them, they are relegated to increasingly isolated educational environments. Unconditional Education (UE) offers an alternate approach that transforms schools into communities where all students can thrive. It reduces the need for more intensive and costly future remediation by pairing a holistic, multi-tiered system of supports with an intentional focus on overall culture and climate, and promotes systematic coordination and integration of funding and services by identifying gaps and eliminating redundancies to increase the efficient allocation of available resources. This book is an essential resource for mental health and educational stakeholders (i.e., school social workers, therapists, teachers, school administrators, and district-level leaders) who are interested in adopting an unconditional approach to supporting the students within their schools. |
| thank you note for special education teacher: Substantial Classrooms Jill Vialet, Amanda von Moos, 2021-04-13 Transform Your School’s Substitute Teaching Experience Just like everything else, substitute teaching is about to undergo a big change. In Substantial Classrooms: Redesigning the Substitute Teaching Experience, authors Jill Vialet and Amanda von Moos usher in a new era of innovation in substitute teaching. Threaded with concrete and actionable ways to improve the experience of substitute teaching for administrators, students, and the teachers themselves, Substantial Classrooms is a leading voice for innovation and renewal in substitute teaching. Instead of viewing substitute teachers as a placeholder in an educator’s absence, this book encourages readers to view substitute teachers as vital resources that diversify the typical classroom learning experience. While other books look only at making a bad situation bearable, this book re-examines substitute teaching with an eye towards reinventing it as a unique and valuable part of students’ educational experience. Key themes of Substantial Classrooms include: How substitute teaching works today Applying human-centered design to create change in legacy systems like substitute teaching Concrete and inspiring examples of different models for substitute teaching, for example, reimagining it as paid fieldwork for aspiring teachers. In addition to these key themes, every chapter includes stories and techniques from dynamic and innovative educational practitioners. This must-have guide to substitute teaching can improve schools everywhere and revolutionize the way educators, school and district leaders, colleges, and community partners view the experience of substitute teaching as a lever to positively impact schools. |
| thank you note for special education teacher: Empowering Family-Teacher Partnerships: Building Connections Within Diverse Communities Mick Coleman, 2012-03 Empowering Family-Teacher Partnerships: Building Connections Within Diverse Communities prepares students to work collaboratively with families and community professionals in support of children's early education and development. Students are invited to develop a personal philosophy of family involvement to guide their work with families and to join a community of learners in relying upon their collective insights and problem-solving skills to address family involvement challenges. The author takes a student-centered approach to delivering substantive information and framing activities, providing: (a) comprehensive coverage of the diversity of family lives represented in classrooms and strategies for working with those families; (b) challenges to family involvement and strategies for addressing them; (c) strategies for communicating effectively with and empowering families, and (d) reflections, activities, tip boxes, and field assignments designed to facilitate students' skills in building positive family-school-community partnerships. |
| thank you note for special education teacher: 7 Ways to Transform the Lives of Wounded Students Joe Hendershott, 2016-02-19 7 Ways to Transform the Lives of Wounded Students provides a wealth of strategies and ideas for teachers and principals who work with wounded students—those who are beyond the point of at-risk and have experienced trauma in their lives. Sharing stories and examples from real schools and students, this inspirational book examines the seven key strategies necessary for changing school culture to transform the lives of individual students. Recognizing the power of effective leadership and empathy in creating a sense of community and safety for wounded students, Hendershott offers a valuable resource to help educators redesign their school environment to meet the needs of children and empower educators to direct students on a path to academic and life success. |
| thank you note for special education teacher: Setting Leadership Priorities Suzette Lovely, 2005-09-22 Dig out from your desk and discover a refreshing new world of school leadership! Do you find yourself so busy digging a ditch with a spoon that you don′t have time to go back to the tool shed and fetch a shovel? Are your in-box and daily schedule at maximum capacity? Does it seem impossible to include those extras that would make your job more enjoyable and satisfying? Conquering overload is a constant challenge for 21st-century school administrators. This book breathes fresh air into the often murky world of priority management. Setting Leadership Priorities teaches busy professionals how to distinguish between information, activities, and situations that must be retained, those that might be refined, and many that should be relinquished. Drawing on more than twenty years of experience as a teacher and administrator, Lovely understands that reducing frustration and overload helps administrators by: Increasing retention rates and improving success on the job Allowing them to redistribute leadership by delegating Creating balance in their daily lives and in their long-term professional journey When the emergencies outnumber the victories and you can′t see the door over your towering in-box, it′s time to reshuffle your priorities and let clarity emerge. |
| thank you note for special education teacher: International Student Achievement Comparisons and Teacher Shortages in Math and Science United States. Congress. Joint Economic Committee. Subcommittee on Economic Goals and Intergovernmental Policy, 1984 |
| thank you note for special education teacher: The Classroom Teacher's Survival Guide Ronald L. Partin, 2009-10-19 An updated edition of the best-selling book for teacher success in the classroom Designed for new and experienced teachers alike, this thoroughly revised and updated edition offers a value-packed, practical source of ready-to-use tips and strategies for meeting the challenges teachers face everyday while organizing and managing a classroom. The third edition includes entirely new sections on teaching English language learners, inquiry-based learning, building positive teacher-student relationships, wrapping up the school year, and much more. The book also features many new forms, pre-written letters, checklists, and reproducibles, along with bonus forms and reproducibles that are available for free download from the web. Includes tools and techniques proven to help teachers succeed in the classroom Contains new sections on teaching English language learners, teacher-student relationships, inquiry-based learning, and more Many handy reproducible forms, handouts, and checklists Includes access to free downloadable bonus material on the web, including pre-written letters, reproducible forms, and worksheets |
| thank you note for special education teacher: Dear Teacher Amy Husband, 2010 This hilarious collection of letters from Michael to his new teacher comes packed with alligators, pirates and rocket ships, and much, much more. Can Michael's imagination save him from the first day of school?--Page 4 of cover. |
| thank you note for special education teacher: Why Bullies Are Cowards Diane Bonner, 2016-08-04 As a retired teacher I want to share the origin and reasons why I am writing a book titled, Why Bullies Are Cowards. I was born and spent most of my early years growing up on a small farm in northwestern Iowa. I had to ride a bus to school and sometimes some of the big boys on the bus would tease me and take my stuff. One day they were so mean that I began crying when I got home. I told my dad what had happened. He sat quietly listening and after I had finished relating what happened he said, “I think it’s time you learn how to stand up for yourself.” He continued by saying, “If these boys start teasing you tomorrow when you get on the bus and try to take your stuff, I want you to stand up, look them square in the eyes, and in a loud, clear voice tell these little cowards, “Pick on somebody their own size!” Needless to say, I was shocked by what he said I had to do. He made me practice saying this a couple of times. He then responded, “Yup, do it just like that!” Then I asked my dad, “What’s a coward?” He replied, “Someone who must pick on others who are weaker, smaller or less able to protect and defend themselves because they are too scared to treat others who are bigger, tougher, and stronger than they are in the same manner!” The last seventeen years of my career I taught at the intermediate school level where I had to deal with bullying situations experienced by sixth, seventh, and eighth grade students. I understood my dad was right. During this time I found that most bullying programs used ineffective forms of punishment to address and resolve peer-to-peer bullying problems rather than teaching students the “why’s, what’s and how’s” of what they must do to defend and protect themselves from being bullied. Why Bullies Are Cowards is intended to share with school personnel, parents, and community members that have contact with children the instructional materials and behavior management techniques I utilized to create a bully-free classroom environment. As bullying statistics and child suicide rates escalate, it is time for all concerned to step up and help teach children how to stop being bullying victims, perpetrators, or bystanders. |
| thank you note for special education teacher: On Being a Teacher Marge Scherer, 2016-07-21 This collection of articles includes tips and strategies, reflections on the profession as a whole, and descriptions of practices that can make the teaching experience more effective and more rewarding. |
| thank you note for special education teacher: Dear Nel Robert Lake, 2015-04-24 This collection is a moving tribute to Nel Noddings, a fascinating and influential scholar who has contributed greatly to numerous fields, including education, feminism, ethics, and the study of social justice and equity.Dear Nel: Opening the Circles of Carepresents contributions from renowned teachers, educators, and activists, such asDavid Berliner, Jim Garrison, Madeline Grumet, Denis Phillips, William H. Schubert, Barbara Thayer-Bacon, Cristina Igoa, Eva Feder Kittay, Riane Eisler,andSara Ruddick. Each provides a personal tribute to Noddings highlighting stories of her lived experience and drawing on her writing and teaching. This unique volume includes an interview with Noddings by Lynda Stone that provides historical context for Noddings’ work and that imagines possible future spaces for her legacy. Featuring a personal and engaging format,Dear Neloffers insights, commentary, and reflections on the extraordinary life work of a major scholar. And, most importantly, it will serve to expand the circles of care that is Nel’s work. Robert Lakeis an assistant professor at Georgia Southern University, Statesboro, GA and the editorof Dear Maxine: Letters from the Unfinished Conversation with Maxine Greene. “This is a wonderful collection of letters to a wonderful educator. Nel Noddings has done as much as anyone I can think of to show us how to improve the lives of children in school. This is a delightfully rich series of testaments to the influence of one of the great educators of our time.” —Kieran Egan, Professor, Simon Fraser University |
| thank you note for special education teacher: Teaching Students who are Exceptional, Diverse, and at Risk in the General Education Classroom Sharon Vaughn, Candace S. Bos, Jeanne Shay Schumm, 2007 Based on the belief that even small accommodations make a difference in the success of students with disabilities, this text provides classroom teachers with the knowledge, tools, and practical strategies that will empower them to spark learning in every student. From students with disabilities, culturally diverse students, and students with limited English proficiency to economically disadvantaged students Vaughn/Bos/Schumm provides teachers with the tools they need in their diverse classrooms. Revised to reflect recent changes in the law (IDEA 2004 & No Child Left Behind) and current terminology, the strength of the book continues to be its numerous learning activities and sample lessons addressing both elementary and secondary classrooms. This edition continues its very popular multi- chapter unit on curriculum adaptations with specific strategies and activities for teaching reading, writing, mathematics, content areas, and study skills, which has been further strengthened by a new capstone chapter on teaching self-advocacy, study skills and strategies. The strong emphasis on professional planning and collaboration make it an excellent resource for all teachers. The newest edition features a new chapter on Autism; a new chapter on Developing Independence in Learning; an all new Tech Tips features that has received rave reviews; a revised chapter Managing Student Behavior that emphasizes school-wide behavior management and positive behavioral support; an expanded chapter on Collaborating and Coordinating with Other Professionals and Family Members with increased coverage of co-teaching; a revised chapter on Planning and Grouping Strategies for Special Learners that reflects an increased emphasis on grouping; and expanded coverage of secondary education via chapter-opening interviews, new photos, and new examples throughout the text. |
| thank you note for special education teacher: Rise and Shine Linda Froschauer, Mary L. Bigelow, 2012 Rise and Shine provides a friendly support system that new science teachers can turn to in their first days, months, and even years in the classroom. This easy-to-read book offers plenty of helpful techniques for managing the classroom, maintaining discipline, and working with parents. But it also covers important topics unique to science teaching, such as setting up a laboratory, keeping the classroom safe, and initiating inquiry from the first day. Sprinkled throughout the book is candid advice from seasoned science teachers who offer both useful strategies and warm reassurance. Rise and Shine is designed to help preservice teachers, those in the first few years of teaching (regardless of grade level), and those who may be entering a new situation within the teaching field. If you need a mentor-or if you are a mentor or instructor who wants to support beginning science teachers-this book is for you. |
| thank you note for special education teacher: 180 Days Crystal E. Emerson, 2011-09-15 Have you emotionally suffered through sabotage and administrative loopholes in your place of employment, which resulted in wrongful discharge? Crystal E. Emerson has written an extraordinary and poignant documentation of truth. She has experienced the unethical behavior of administrators and other professionals while working in a public school district in the state of Pennsylvania. During the 20032004 academic year, Crystal experienced divided professional loyalties and lived and worked through this emotional dichotomy for 180 days of employment. This was a test of personal and emotional strength and a time to trust her instincts. The law assumes that public school administrators will behave in an ethical manner. The PSEA (Pennsylvania State Education Association) members assume that union representatives will support them during times of professional adversity. This book is a personal account, of a professional position, in which these two assumptions have failed to occur. There is a need for all public school administrators to abide by more strict laws. There is a need to implement a law that requires all observations and evaluations performed by public school administrators to video record the session; this video recording should be submitted to the state department of education due to a mandating law. Such a law would help teachers in extreme situations who have been subjected to heinous actions of administrative personnel. It is Crystals hope that her 180-day experience of emotional adversity, sabotage, harassment, and undermining has not occurred in vain. Never before has a book been so poignant and honest! This is an account of utter emotional and professional strength. You will be enticed as you enjoy reading 180 DAYS! |
| thank you note for special education teacher: CST Students with Disabilities Certification Specialists, 2024-02-16 Certification Specialists has been helping teachers become New York State certified since 2001. We provide our services to individuals as well as the New York City Department of Education and the City University of New York. This guide is designed to assist candidates who are certifying to become Special Education educators (grades B-12). Our guide includes practice problems for all aspects of the test. Introductory problems review concepts in each subarea, and four practice tests give you the opportunity to see your progress using mixed reviews that mimic the test. Detailed answer explanations have been refined based on our extensive experience building these skills with institutional and private clients. Certification Specialists is a boutique test preparation company that specializes in teacher certification. Our materials are developed by teachers, for teachers, and are based on extensive research of these exams. |
