When
looking through the Code of Ethics for Special Education I came across a very
important one:
"Promoting
meaningful and inclusive participation of individuals with exceptionalities in
their schools and communities."
I
think that treating children that are in Special Education as just another
student is the best thing you can do for them. Obviously tailor their schoolwork
to their own personal knowledge, but also teachers need to make sure that they
feel included. Society already shows them as "less than" or
"weaker than" those that are able-bodied and I think it is my job as
a future teacher to give them a voice; to speak up for them and fight for them
when they cannot do it themselves.
As
I prepare to become a teacher I am involved in things that enhance my
capabilities for being in this field. Some of those things include taking
classes that are specified to the type of teaching I plan to make a profession
later on in life and having that class teach me that there are differences all
throughout the classroom that go unnoticed. Second, I am in a sorority that
does philanthropic work for children that are underprivileged which will help
me gain a better appreciation for those students that don't have as much. And
finally, I am part of a Service Learning Program through the University and I
help those students that are finishing their GED and trying to graduate high
school. It gives me a closer look into their struggles and the way they study
and gain more knowledge on their schooling journey.
"CEC Ethical Principles for Special Education Professionals." CEC. N.p., 2011. Web. 07 Oct. 2012. <http://www.cec.sped.org/Content/NavigationMenu/ProfessionalDevelopment/ProfessionalStandards/EthicsPracticeStandards/default.htm>.
I think the code of ethics that you chose perfectly describes how a special education teacher should behave and act. It is very important, as you stated, that every child feels included. I have seen some teachers at my high school who have treated the special education students as if they are first graders. It has always hurt me to see this happen. That's why I am so glad you chose this code of ethics to describe your field. The steps you are taking to prepare yourself to become a teacher are amazing. Keep up the great work!
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