Will anyone share experience of teaching in the inner city?

Question

Can we hear form teachers of Special Education working the inner city high need schools. How does a new teacher do well in his first years

Answer 1

I work in a high need middle school which has been in assistance for years.  I've held many positions through the years:  7th grade resource teacher, self-contained BD/MMD/LD teacher, Special Education Department Chair, Special Education reading and science teacher... each year my job seems to change.  

Most of our children come from the inner city and nearly all of our children are on free or reduced lunch.  It is the toughest job I have ever had, but it can be rewarding and I can't seem to make myself leave.  As for your question, I have several suggestions for you.  First of all, take care of yourself and know that you are going to make mistakes.  We all do... that's how we learn.  Second, make your rules and expectations clear and at a high level... and be consistant.  The second you start changing these things the students will learn that they can manipulate you.  Third, be positive... not fake.  Give compliments and try to promote success.  Don't, however, be fake... street smart kids can smell a fraud a mile away and they will turn on you.  Fourth, find another teacher that you can talk to and ask for help.  You will need to have someone to bounce ideas off of... and someone to pick you up when you feel like quitting!  Lastly, make sure than you plan the best lessons you possibly can.  Bored children become your behavior issues!!!  Know your content area and make sure that your lessons include visuals and/or manipulatives to go along with your discussion.  This keeps the kiddos busy and helps with understanding.

Good luck!