Coordinator of Special Education

I am looking for Parent Night Topics that you would like addressed in the upcoming school year.  Please post your comments with your ideas.  I look forward to reading and trying to implement them!

What is Co-Teaching?

Co-teaching is a research-based, best practice involving two teachers, a regular education teacher and special education teacher, simultaneously teaching all students in the classroom (with and without disabilities), at the same time as a team. 

“Co-teaching is the collaboration between general and special education teachers for all of the teaching responsibilities of all students assigned to a classroom…In a co-taught classroom, teachers share the planning, presentation, evaluation, and classroom management in an effort to enhance the learning environment for all students.”  Gately & Gately, 2001.

“In co-taught classrooms, ALL students can receive improved instruction. This includes students who are academically gifted or talented, students who have average ability, students who are at risk for school failure as well as students with identified special needs.”  Cook, L & Friend, 2004.

How is Co-Teaching being Implemented At Milton Area School District?

Milton Area School District began implementing the Co-teaching Model during the 2006-2007 academic school year at the Middle School in some science and social studies classes.  In 2007-2008, the Senior High School also began using co-teaching in some science and history classes.  For the 2009-2010 school year, Milton will begin broadening the approach of co-teaching at the elementary level, specifically 3^rd and 4^th grade at Baugher Elementary School.  Also, new for the 2009-2010 school year, some additional English and math classes at the Senior High will be co-taught. 

What are the Benefits of Co-Teaching?

·         Professional Growth – Both educators benefit from professional growth within co-teaching

·         Differentiation of Instruction – Students are provided instruction through different learning modalities increasing learning

·         Teacher Access – Teachers have access to more materials, instructional time, and

·         Behavioral Management – Increased learning time while decreasing behavioral difficulties simultaneously

·         Student Engagement – Percentage of time on task increases

Resources:

Gately, S. & Gately, F.  (2001).  Understanding coteaching components.  Teaching Exceptional Children, 33(4), 40-47.

Cook,L., & Friend, M.  (2004).  Co-Teaching: Principles, Practices, and Pragmatics.  7.

Posted are blogs that I will update frequently to help improve home/school communication.  As I share my innovative ideas and topics with you, I look forward to your comments.