We want to share an NPR article that will most likely resonate with most of our members,.
The NPR article underscores a severe shortage of special education teachers, an issue that has worsened due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Before the pandemic, 44 states reported shortages of special education teachers. As of the current school year, this number has increased to 48 states (KTOO) (WUNC). This deficit has led many schools to resort to hiring individuals who lack full qualifications, often under provisional licenses, to meet the legal requirements of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) (Georgia Public Broadcasting) (Health News Florida).
The shortage means that students with disabilities, who are legally entitled to education from fully licensed special educators, often find themselves taught by teachers who are still in training or lack the necessary expertise. This can significantly impact the quality of education these students receive, as they require specialized instructional strategies and support that only well-trained professionals can provide (KTOO) (WUNC).
NPR: Why children with disabilities are missing school
Experts like Jacqueline Rodriguez from the American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education express serious concerns about this practice. They argue that putting unqualified individuals in such crucial roles is detrimental to the educational and developmental needs of students with disabilities. Rodriguez uses a stark analogy, comparing this situation to allowing untrained individuals to perform neurosurgery while still learning on the job (Georgia Public Broadcasting) (WUNC). Despite these concerns, the dire need for special education teachers has led some parents, like Becky Ashcraft, to accept any available teacher, even those who are still working towards full certification (KTOO) (Health News Florida).
With legislation like AB2768, CAPSES will continue to elevate the issues impacting our most vulnerable students and remain at the forefront of advocacy as we have from Day one. CAPSES is a member-driven organization, and as such, we hope to hear from you on issues you feel we should be using our collective strength to address.
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