The Survival Guide for New Special Education Teachers

Since its first publication, The Survival Guide for New Special Education Teachers has helped novice teachers bridge the gap between training and classroom practice. This all-new edition, updated to reflect the needs and priorities of 21st-century special educators, offers practical guidance on such topics as roles and responsibilities, school environment and culture, classroom organization and management, collaboration with other professionals, and individual professional development. Required reading for pre-service teachers, essential for the new teacher,and a refresher for veteran special educators, The Survival Guide belongs on every educator’s bookshelf.

“The second edition of The Survival Guide for New Special Education Teachers is a must-have handbook for all new teachers—both those in special education and those teaching in general education inclusive classrooms. The best part is the personal commentary and opportunities for reflection strategically placed throughout the guide. They make you feel like you have a mentor there to help you every step of the way.” —Denise Whitford, Assistant Professor of Special Education, Purdue University College of Education

• Chapter 1: Welcome to Your Professional World!
• Chapter 2: Getting to Know Your Work Environment
• Chapter 3: Your Classroom-Your Space
• Chapter 4: Teaching and Testing
• Chapter 5: The IEP: Collaborating With Students and Families
• Chapter 6: Thriving as a Special Educator

Catherine Creighton Martin 

In addition to being a parent of a child with a disability, Catherine Creighton Martin recently completed her third year teaching in Fairfax County Public Schools, Virginia, and has experience researching instructional strategies. Dr. Martin received her PhD in special education in 2014 from George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia, and is on the faculty at George Mason as an adjunct professor.

Clara Hauth

Clara Hauth is an assistant professor of special education at Marymount University in Arlington, Virginia, and has over ten years of public school service as a classroom teacher. Her experience includes both graduate and undergraduate instruction at George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia, and James Madison University in Harrisonburg, Virginia. She specializes in supporting and mentoring new special education teachers.

The authors are donating a portion of royalties from this book to the Henry & William Evans Home for Children and to the CEC Yes I Can Awards.