Welcome To Bright Paths Connection: From One SPED Teacher to Another

If you have ever had to chase down a student before they reached the outside door or tried to communicate with a very dysregulated kid who had no words to express what was happening inside their bodies, then you have reached your destination. If you stress and worry about that one student that you know is having trouble but do not know where to begin to find relevant resources that apply to the exceptionalities of the population you work with, I want to be the first to say "Welcome to the Club!". We value the definition of Inclusion here! This resource was made with you in mind at every step.

About the Website

This website was crafted specifically for Special Education Teachers, Paraprofessionals, and Parents of those with diverse needs who want to support their learner at any stage. To help reach our goal of being effective educators and making a difference in our students lives, this website will provide you with resources, strategies, and real life solutions that will make your teaching life feel more sustainable. You may be asking "What makes this site different?". This site will be a thoughtful and intentional resource that will address real classroom challenges that saves you time and will be research based.

About Me

I am a someone in the same boat as you trying to steer in the right direction. I am a current Special Education teacher who has been in classrooms ranging from the most severe and profound disabilities to moderate and severe Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). I care about this work because I have seen time and time again how lack of education, resources, and people power affect those who are misunderstood, cannot advocate for themselves, and/or just left behind. A challenge I have faced is the reality of trying to uphold a standard that has been set without being given all the tools needed to accomplish the mission. I have learned (sometimes the hardest way) the most difficult part of becoming a teacher was not the teaching, but finding the time and tools to be effective.

Real Talk: Voices From The Classroom

Interviewer:

What led you to entering Special Education?

Interviewee A:

The previous years, I was substitute going to whatever school had an opening for that day to fill in. I liked the school, and what I was able to see as a substitute of the Special Education Department. I just liked it...and so I applied and I'm a Teacher this year.

Interviewer:

Now that you have the position, what parts of the job takes most of your time and energy?

Interviewee A:

I'd say the behaviors, that interferes with a lot of their learning. This creates an effect on other students so it just continues until we put out every fire.

Interviewer:

What are some strategies that you have found to be the most effective for supporting your students?

Interviewee A:

I am a proactive person, when I see a problem arising I would say "Okay, how can we get ahead of it". I use core boards, sentence starters, and some sign language. Visuals are also a big help.

Interviewer:

What was a small win that reminded you why you do what you do?

Interviewee A:

Actually, recently, one of my students, she is non verbal. We've been trying to get an AAC device for her but I have been using a core board. And today she actually pointed, and asked for help. I was like, Oh my goodness!

Conclusion

I deeply encourage you to reach out! Let me know what resources do you need that will benefit you and our fellow educators. I also invite you to share your experiences in the website and help me create a community of educators who want to do the best they can in advocating for their students.

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