Hello.. I am a sophomore at Winthrop University and am studying to become a Special Education Teacher. This blog is to inform other teachers, parents, and anyone else about my philosophy and my teaching goals for the future.

My Philosophy: I believe that as a future educator, it is my responsibility to help students in any way possible. Teachers have the responsibility to shape the lives of our children, and being a Special Education major, I want to help special needs children improve their lives.

My Goals are to ensure that all exceptional children receive a free and appropriate education (FAPE), and that the rights of the students are given to them.

My Class: I have been in many classrooms and have picked up some great ideas for my own class. One idea that I am going to incorporate into my class is the idea of a "Sunshine Student." This student will be the line leader, my special helper, and direct the class in a few activities. The student will only be "Sunshine" for the day, allowing all the students to understand that they will have a turn in the future. This lets the students feel like they are in charge and important, which needs to happen to all students.

Links that can help:
http://ed.sc.gov/agency/Standards-and-Learning/Exceptional-Children/
http://www.autismspeaks.org/
http://www.thehelpgroup.org/programs.htm