When attending interviews for special education teaching positions in the US, it's important to be familiar with the educational buzzwords and key concepts that are relevant to the field. Here are some keywords and concepts that may be useful to mention during interviews:

  • Individualized Education Program (IEP): A legal document that outlines a personalized education plan for students with disabilities, including specific goals, services, and accommodations.
  • Differentiated instruction: Tailoring teaching methods to meet the diverse needs of students in the classroom, including those with different learning styles, abilities, and disabilities.
  • Response to Intervention (RTI): A multi-tiered approach to the early identification and support of students with learning and behavior needs.
  • Inclusion: The practice of educating students with disabilities in the general education classroom alongside their non-disabled peers, with appropriate support and accommodations.
  • Universal Design for Learning (UDL): A framework to improve and optimize teaching and learning for all people based on scientific insights into how humans learn.
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  • Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS): A proactive approach to establishing the behavioral supports and social culture needed for all students in a school to achieve social, emotional, and academic success.
  • Co-teaching: An instructional approach in which a general education and special education teacher work together to plan, instruct, and assess a diverse group of students.
  • Special education law: Familiarity with the legal requirements and regulations outlined in laws such as the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act.
  • Assistive technology: Tools and devices that help students with disabilities to access the curriculum and participate in educational activities.
  • Collaboration and communication: Emphasizing the importance of working closely with parents, other teachers, and support staff to ensure the success of students with special needs.

By demonstrating your understanding and use of these keywords and concepts during an interview, you can convey your expertise and commitment to effective special education practices in the K-12 classroom.