Experts in the field of special education are knowledgeable about historical, philosophical, and legal foundations impacting the field as they relate to the protection of student and family rights. Special education leaders are savvy in their craft and able to effectively collaborate with colleagues to plan individualized educational programs and articulate the services, resources, materials, equipment, and needs of students with exceptionalities.
The role of collaboration and consultation is particularly critical in the field of special education, allowing both the special education and the general education expert the opportunity to formulate the most appropriate plans for students using their expertise. In addition, social and emotional competencies are essential, as neither collaboration nor consultation exist void of a relationship with other people.
For this Discussion, you will take on the role of a team leader, in which you will examine the facts and information presented in the case study and module Learning Resources to formulate recommendations for an action plan.
To prepare:
- Enter the Grand City interactive community and locate West Ridge Middle School. View the case study video titled, “The New Student.”
- Review all module Learning Resources.
- Consider what you might do as the grade level team leader with respect to Jamal’s current situation. How might you formulate a plan of action recommending what you would do next for Jamal?
As you form your recommendations for a plan of action, consider the following:
- What are the issues identified in the case study?
- What are the facts the principal and teachers need to consider in planning for Jamal?
- Were there any issues related to cultural diversity and cultural responsive practice? If so, what were they?
- What would be the initial steps for the team to consider regarding response to intervention (RTP) to support Jamal in the regular education classroom?
- What additional resources and/or personnel would be needed to assist in further identifying, understanding, and/or supporting Jamal?
- Are there any ethical implications and issues of integrity related to special education, Jamal and his mother, and/or the school and program that need to be considered? If so, what are they?
- What are the relevant cultural and linguistic diversity considerations you would need to keep in mind with regard to the students and families? What external factors (i.e., culture, language, social and emotional, etc…) need to be considered? How might these impact student learning?
- What actions are needed related to preparing for Jamal to be successful in the regular education environment?
By Day 3 of Week 4
Post, from the perspective of the team leader, a plan of action for what you would do next for Jamal. Clearly explain the next steps along with your rationale and research-based strategies to:
- Address the concerns presented by Jamal’s mother.
- Assist Jamal in his transitioning to the school.
- Support the teachers who will be working with Jamal.
