Have you signed up for The Educator’s Room Newsletter? Click here and support independent journalism! Picture this: I once taught at a school that served preschool through fifth grade, including students who were Deaf or Hard of Hearing. But despite our efforts to create an inclusive learning environment, there was a noticeable lack of understanding […]
Special Education
Posted inOpinion
Native American Deaf History is American Deaf History
Have you signed up for The Educator’s Room Newsletter? Click here and support independent journalism! As we celebrate another Deaf History Month, I am reflecting on the excitement I felt experiencing American Sign Language (ASL) highlighted in Super Bowl LVII. The unique and creative rendition of the “Star Spangled Banner” by Troy Kotsur, the first […]
Posted inCurrent Events in Education
How Educators Can Honor Judith Heumann’s Legacy
Judith Heumann’s passing is a reminder to teach about inclusivity and disability rights Have you signed up for The Educator’s Room Daily Newsletter? Click here and support independent journalism! I have taught for nearly two decades, and I have had the privilege of working with diverse students, each with unique backgrounds, experiences, and struggles. These […]
Posted inAsk the Educator's Room
Ask The Educator’s Room: I saw my AP at a swingers party. Should we talk about it?
Have you signed up for The Educator’s Room Daily Newsletter? Click here and support independent journalism! Welcome to The Educator’s Room advice column for teachers! Today we’re helping a teacher who had an “interaction” with their Assistant Principal at a swingers party. We’re also helping a teacher who’s trying to set some boundaries around their […]
Posted inOpinion
Don’t Be Afraid of Your Student in the Wheelchair
Teachers Must Ensure Equity and Inclusion for Their Students with Disabilities Students in wheelchairs “Hi, I’m Kelly, the district physical therapist,” I say as I walk into the classroom. “I emailed a couple of days ago, but I’m sure you’re absolutely swamped with email right now.” “I’m here because you have Aiden* in your class […]
Posted inOpinion
Want to Keep Special Education Teachers? Try Mentorship
“[O]ne of the most vital ways we sustain ourselves is by building communities of resistance, places where we know we are not alone.” -bell hooks Isolation island seems to be the name of the game when you enter into the special education profession. It’s often a sink or swim mentality which results in teacher retention […]
Posted inOpinion
Our Son’s Paraprofessional Changed Our Lives. Paraprofessionals Deserve Higher Pay.
Have you signed up for The Educator’s Room Daily Newsletter? Click here and support independent journalism! A few days into this school year, I received a text from my husband. It was short, simple, and straight to the point: “It’s amazing the difference a qualified and responsible one-on-one aide makes in the lives of a […]
Posted inCurrent Events in Education
Five Picture Books Students Will Love for Celebrating International Day of Persons with Disabilities
Have you signed up for The Educator’s Room Daily Newsletter? Click here and support independent journalism! I remember sending my son to his first day of school with his new glasses. My anxiety was high, worrying about what the other students would say to him and how their comments would make him feel. Would they […]