The Power of Collaboration
Written by: Kacey Seaver
Educators are consumed with daily routines, procedures, expectations, paperwork, and so much more. We often forget the importance and value collaboration brings. On-going collaboration between special education and general education teachers is an effective way to create a management plan that implements strategies and systems to meet the needs of our growing learners. Here are three reasons the collaboration between special education and general education teachers is important for classroom management.
On-going collaboration between special education and general education teachers is an effective way to create a management plan that implements strategies and systems to meet the needs of our growing learners.
1. Implement Plans, Expectations, and Accountability with Consistency
Classrooms are full of behaviors, learning needs, and learning styles. Classroom management is key to meeting students where they are. A consistent plan for procedures and consequences relays a very important message to students…they will be held accountable for their choices and actions. Implementing plans with appropriate expectations sets guidelines for teachers and students. Classroom teachers feel supported and students can grow. Our earliest learners thrive when consistent plans are put into place. On-going collaboration allows for changes to be made and extra support to be present in the classroom.
2. Building Relationships
Collaboration is all about building relationships! A strong team working with/for students allows for growth and many learning opportunities. Our most challenging students will benefit from collaboration of a plan/behavior system designed specifically to meet their needs. There is power in connecting with our students during difficult times. Students see a team that loves them and is working for their success. These connections will allow for continued success in the classroom.
We can only be as great as the conversations and collaboration we are willing to have.
3. Providing an Environment which Allows Learning and Reset Opportunities
Continued collaboration creates a learning environment that meets students’ academic and social needs. Creating a classroom that has specifically designed reset areas encourages children with behavior needs to recognize their need for a reset and use coping strategies within the classroom. Special Education teachers can support the general education teacher in implementing these strategies that will encourage students to advocate for themselves. A calming corner supplied with sensory objects will help students reset and reduce the amount of time out of the classroom and disruption within the classroom. Key Point: We can only be as great as the conversations and collaboration we are willing to have. Our students need all of us working together to be successful. Â
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