What a Week Looks Like for a Busy Special Education Teacher

A week in the life of a special education teacher is a dynamic blend of teaching, problem-solving, collaboration, and emotional support. These educators wear many hats—providing academic instruction, managing behavior plans, coordinating services, and advocating for student needs. Their schedules are full, but their impact is immeasurable. While no two weeks are exactly alike, here’s a glimpse into the rhythm of a typical week for a busy special education teacher working in a public school setting.

Monday: Planning and Prioritizing

Monday sets the tone for the week. Special education teachers often start by reviewing student data, adjusting plans, and ensuring accommodations are in place.

• Check emails for updates from therapists, administrators, or parents.
• Review IEP goals and schedule any meetings or progress monitoring for the week.
• Collaborate with general education teachers about lesson modifications.
• Begin the week with structured routines that help students transition smoothly.

Tuesday: Instruction and Intervention

By Tuesday, teachers are diving deep into academic instruction. Lessons are personalized and delivered in various formats based on student needs.

• Teach small group reading, math, or writing lessons aligned with IEP goals.
• Provide 1:1 intervention for students with higher support needs.
• Use visuals, manipulatives, or assistive technology to support learning.
• Track student responses and collect data for progress reports.

Wednesday: Collaboration and Meetings

Midweek often includes dedicated time for professional collaboration and paperwork. This is when many IEP meetings and team check-ins occur.

• Participate in IEP or 504 plan meetings with families and service providers.
• Coordinate with speech, occupational, and physical therapists.
• Attend grade-level team meetings to align goals and share student updates.
• Update IEP documentation and lesson plans as needed.

Thursday: Behavior Support and Inclusion

Special education teachers frequently support students in both resource and inclusive classrooms. Thursdays may involve managing behavior plans and coaching general educators.

• Implement Positive Behavior Intervention Plans (PBIPs).
• Support students during inclusion periods in science, social studies, or specials.
• Model co-teaching strategies and scaffold classwork for struggling students.
• Check in with paraprofessionals and provide guidance or adjustments.

Friday: Reflection and Reporting

Fridays are for wrapping up the week, reflecting on progress, and preparing for what’s ahead. It’s also a time to celebrate wins—big or small.

• Conduct informal assessments or progress monitoring checks.
• Write weekly summaries or communication logs for parents.
• Celebrate student achievements with certificates, shout-outs, or goal updates.
• Plan lessons or prep materials for the following week.

Outside the Classroom: Behind-the-Scenes Work

Much of a special education teacher’s workload happens outside of class time. Documentation, communication, and administrative tasks are crucial parts of the job.

• Complete IEP paperwork, progress reports, and compliance documentation.
• Respond to parent questions or concerns via email or scheduled meetings.
• Analyze student data to drive instruction and interventions.
• Attend professional development workshops or training sessions.

Conclusion

Special education teachers are at the heart of inclusive education, balancing a full schedule with grace, patience, and expertise. Their weeks are fast-paced and often unpredictable, but their work is profoundly rewarding. By managing instruction, collaborating with teams, and supporting students’ unique needs, these educators ensure that every learner has the opportunity to succeed. It’s more than a job—it’s a mission rooted in compassion, advocacy, and unwavering commitment.