As educators, some of us have been taught bullying tactics disguised as responsive learner instructional practices and interventions. The infamous excessive drill and practice exercises are one of those instructional practices that we either experienced as a learner ourselves or were taught to use as a part of our teaching pedagogy. Acknowledging October as Dyslexia […]
Special Education
Special Education: As IEP Goals Evolve, So Should School Offerings
I spent one year as an instructional assistant in a life skills classroom. Our classroom had 9 students. There were many differences in our small group. The age range was between 1st and 4th graders. The needs ranged from physical to developmental. Although I have many years of experience in the field of education and […]
7 Steps to College Success A Pathway for Students With Disabilities
As a special education teacher, I recently had the pleasure of reviewing Elizabeth C. Hamblet’s book, “7 Steps to College Success: A Pathway for Students with Disabilities” (2023). The book focuses on the transition from K-12 services to higher education services, providing a clear and concise guide to help students with disabilities navigate the process. […]
Embracing Deaf Representation: Strategies for Fostering Inclusivity in Education
Have you signed up for The Educator’s Room Newsletter? Click here and support independent journalism! Picture this: I once taught at a school that served preschool through fifth grade, including students who were Deaf or Hard of Hearing. But despite our efforts to create an inclusive learning environment, there was a noticeable lack of understanding […]
Native American Deaf History is American Deaf History
Have you signed up for The Educator’s Room Newsletter? Click here and support independent journalism! As we celebrate another Deaf History Month, I am reflecting on the excitement I felt experiencing American Sign Language (ASL) highlighted in Super Bowl LVII. The unique and creative rendition of the “Star Spangled Banner” by Troy Kotsur, the first […]
How Educators Can Honor Judith Heumann’s Legacy
Judith Heumann’s passing is a reminder to teach about inclusivity and disability rights Have you signed up for The Educator’s Room Daily Newsletter? Click here and support independent journalism! I have taught for nearly two decades, and I have had the privilege of working with diverse students, each with unique backgrounds, experiences, and struggles. These […]
Ask The Educator’s Room: I saw my AP at a swingers party. Should we talk about it?
Have you signed up for The Educator’s Room Daily Newsletter? Click here and support independent journalism! Welcome to The Educator’s Room advice column for teachers! Today we’re helping a teacher who had an “interaction” with their Assistant Principal at a swingers party. We’re also helping a teacher who’s trying to set some boundaries around their […]
Don’t Be Afraid of Your Student in the Wheelchair
Teachers Must Ensure Equity and Inclusion for Their Students with Disabilities Students in wheelchairs “Hi, I’m Kelly, the district physical therapist,” I say as I walk into the classroom. “I emailed a couple of days ago, but I’m sure you’re absolutely swamped with email right now.” “I’m here because you have Aiden* in your class […]