There are many rules that are needed in any class to ensure a good learning environment, but in a Special Education classroom, there are some additional rules that should be considered.
Students who have special needs often have trouble with impulse control or have other behaviors that need to be managed. These students may be unable to understand the consequences of their actions, which means they will need different support systems than students without special needs.
Because of this, you should make sure your rules are as clear as possible and appropriate for the age of your students. You can use visual cues to help them remember the rules and encourage them regularly.
Teachers will not tolerate physical violence or threatening behavior from students. If a student exhibits any of these behaviors, they may be asked to leave the classroom until they are able to calm down and return ready to learn.
Students may not use cell phones or other electronic devices in class unless otherwise instructed by the teacher. Any student found using a cell phone without the express permission of their teacher must turn it off immediately and place it in their bag. The first time a student is caught using their phone without permission, they will receive a warning from the teacher. The second time they will receive detention, and the third time they will have their phone confiscated until the end of the day.
One of the first things that should be done in a special education classroom is to set the rules for the classroom. This is a process that should involve both students and teachers. When the students are involved in the rule-setting process, they are more likely to follow those rules.
The rules for a special education classroom should be similar to those for a general education classroom, with a few key differences. The main difference is that you need to take into account the specific needs of students with disabilities.
In a special education classroom, rules are necessary to ensure that students feel safe and can learn in a positive environment. Because these classes may contain children with different levels of understanding, the rules need to be communicated clearly and consistently. Rules also provide teachers with a way to respond to student behavior in a consistent manner.
Include the top three or four rules for the classroom on a poster that can be posted in a prominent location, such as on the wall by the door. The poster should include a picture of each rule along with text so students can reference it throughout the day. Have students help you write the rules, then read them together at the beginning of each day and have students repeat them after you so they have practice reading them aloud. Teachers should communicate each rule briefly when disciplining a student for not following them. The teacher should also explain why following that rule is important so students understand why they must follow it rather than simply punishing them for not following it.