As a sub, you should know what an IEP is and how you can provide your students who have special needs with accommodations and modifications. Here’s some info to get you started.

<div>
  As a substitute teacher, there are certain things you should be aware of
  regarding IEPs. Here&rsquo;s some information to get you started so you feel
  more confident and prepared to be the best sub for all of your students.
</div>

<h2>What is an IEP?</h2>

<div>
  An IEP is an Individualized Education Plan. It is a written statement of the
  educational program designed to meet a child&rsquo;s individual needs. Every
  child who receives special education services has an IEP. Within the IEP are
  learning accommodations for the student based on their needs.&nbsp;
</div>

<div>
  Teachers use IEP&rsquo;s to guide them in accommodating and modifying the
  design of lessons and instruction in the classroom.
</div>

<div>
  As a substitute teacher, you may or may not have access to IEP information.
  The teacher may indicate that a particular student may have specific needs or
  allowances. These could be outlined in their IEP, so it&rsquo;s important to
  follow any instructions the classroom teacher leaves regarding any particular
  student.&nbsp;
</div>

<div>
  <strong
    >Strategies for Working with Students Who May Have Special Needs</strong
  >
</div>

<ol>
  <li>
    Give instructions both orally and visually so students receive clear
    directions that they can refer back to if needed.
  </li>
  <li>Monitor student progress and provide positive feedback often.&nbsp;</li>
  <li>
    Make activities short and concise. Break longer activities into a series of
    shorter tasks.
  </li>
  <li>Try to provide concrete examples and draw on real life experiences.</li>
  <li>
    Limit distractions and provide a safe learning environment free from
    environmental triggers such as loud noises, bright lights, and other things
    that can disrupt a student&rsquo;s focus.
  </li>
  <li>
    Set students up for success during transitions: maintain consistent
    routines, give advance or repeat notice, and provide expectations.
  </li>
  <li>
    Structure activities so that students can successfully complete them, and
    acknowledge successes so students stay motivated to continue on to the next
    task.
  </li>
  <li>Use visual aids such as charts, graphs and pictures.</li>
  <li>
    Help build social skills using peer models by providing opportunities for
    students to work in pairs or small groups.
  </li>
</ol>

<h2>Working with Special Education Providers</h2>

<div>
  Whether you are in a classroom as a daily substitute or on a long-term
  assignment, you may be working with special education providers. These
  suggestions can help ensure working with these providers goes smoothly.
</div>

<ul>
  <li>
    Remember special education providers are in the room to collaborate with you
    and provide services to students. They have specific tasks they need to
    complete while in the classroom.
  </li>
  <li>
    As a substitute teacher, you are responsible for what happens in your
    classroom. Greet anyone who enters the room and introduce yourself to them.
    If needed, find out the purpose of their visit.
  </li>
  <li>
    When speaking with special education providers about students make sure
    conversations are respectful, confidential, and out of earshot of all
    students.
  </li>
  <li>
    Don&rsquo;t hesitate to ask special education providers if there is
    something you can do that would be helpful for the student(s).
  </li>
</ul>

<h2>Resources for Substitute Teachers</h2>

<div>
  Check out our other resources for substitute teachers, including
  <a href="https://www.crosscountryeducation.com/blogs/no-lesson-plan"
    >No Lesson Plan? We&rsquo;ve Got You Covered</a
  >, and don&rsquo;t forget to
  <a href="https://www.crosscountryeducation.com/blogs/school-talent-network"
    >Join Our School Talent Network</a
  >
</div>

<div>
  Ready to take on your next adventure with Cross Country Education? Find your
  ideal
  <a
    href="https://www.crosscountryeducation.com/job-search-results?what=Substitute+Teacher&amp;where="
    >substitute teaching job</a
  >
  now.<br />
</div>


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