In the next 5 years I would like to...

The main position that I would want in a job is to become a special education teacher. I want this job because children with special needs are not always taken care of the way the need to be in public schools. I want to be able to help both the children and their families to know that they are being treated properly with their own education plans set up specifically for them. Not all people are the same so not all children need to be taught the same way. Personalizing an education based on a child's own way of thinking and necessities would make their time in school so much more enjoyable and that is what I want to do for them.

Personal:

- make more friends
- start volunteering more
- take a road trip to California

Professional:

- go to college for child development
- get an internship with a special education school for kids, such as "Advocate for Kids"

Special education teachers carry the responsibility of educating children in grades preschool to twelfth grade who are diagnosed with a number of physical, mental and emotional disabilities. They work with legally required federal paperwork called an IEP, or Individualized Educational Plan, that outlines the necessary supports, accomodations and goals for an individual child. These goals can encompass both academic and behavioral concerns. These teachers also direct meetings with parents and staff regarding the plan and make necessary adjustments throughout the year. In the classroom, they work with children who can vary from mild to severe disabilities, using specialized techniques to help them reach their goals.

Special Education Teacher