If you are interested in becoming a teacher, you do not have to focusing on becoming a general professional if you would be better suited as a specialist. There are several different specialty categories in the field of education, and anyone who is studying to become a teacher should be familiar with different job titles they can pursue. If you would like to work in the Special Education department, you may be interested in research what an Emotional Support teacher does. As a special education professional, an Emotional Support teacher works directly with students to identify emotional and behavioral problems in an effort to develop a plan that will enable the student to achieve their potential in school. Read on and learn what the average day in the life of an Emotional Support teacher is like.
The Job Functions of an Emotional Support Teacher
Learning about your professional job function before you start studying to enter the field is important. As an Emotional Support teacher, a large portion of your day will go towards delivering instruction that is based on general education curriculum and developing weekly lesson plans. You will need to utilize several different resources, materials, and methods of instruction when developing your lessons due to the nature of the students that you will be teaching.
Because your students will have a history of suffering from emotional and behavioral issues, you will need to use prefereed learning modalities to provide differentiated instruction that is appropriate for the individual student all while being a positive role model to students. Throughout the academic year, you will also assess students’ behavior and their behavior in the classroom and socially. With the data that is collected throughout the year, you will interpret performance and the modify your focus on instruction after notifying both the district and the student’s parents.
Emotional Support teachers must be familiar with the federal and state standards and educational policies. Reviewing policies and IEPs will become part of your routine in this role. You may also work directly with an IEP team to identify school services and programs that may be beneficial for the student to achieve their maximum potential. As an emotional support specialist in the field of education, you will be collaborating and communicating with parents, staff, and peers much closer than the general teacher.
How to Become an Emotional Support Teacher
If you would love to accommodate the needs of emotionally challenged students, you need to prepare to meet all of the requirements for employment while you are still in school. While it is a challenging function, it is one that is very rewarding for the right candidate. The requirements will vary from state to state, but most states require teachers to have a Special Education or Instructional Certificate in Cognitive, Behavior or Physical Disabilities to be considered for an opening. You should check your state specific requirements so that you choose the right core courses.
Studies show that there is a growing need for special education teachers throughout the United States. With a shortage of licensed special education teachers to fill the gap, enrolling in the appropriate program can really benefit you. Earn your Bachelor’s and get certified in Special Education so that you can fulfill the entry-level standard and become a valuable asset in academia.
