Summary Of Shortage In Special Education

In the article, “A Field at Risk: The Teacher Shortage in Special Education.” (Nichols, Bicard, Bicard, & Casey, 2008), I was made aware of several very tall issues. I didn’t know of the shortage problem facing the special education field, and am honestly saddened by it. The most discouraging, though, is the general lack of concern demonstrated from education officials. It seems they keep stacking bandages on cracks without ever removing the previous ones. And I’m not alone in this thought. The authors put it perfectly by saying, “Sometimes the system impedes its own progress and is a part of the problem.” (Nichols, Bicard, Bicard, & Casey, 2008). There isn’t a statement I could agree with more in regards to the education system. A major point of focus for me was the lack of enrollment for special education. This caught my attention because I am still debating where I want to take my career in education and I am curious as to what is …show more content…
Aside from the technical issues, what concerns me the most is the affect this shortage is having on the children. And while I wouldn’t want any students put in bad situations, it is especially painful in the terms of special education because the kids are so vulnerable. It makes me uneasy knowing that while the people in charge are pacing their offices to look busy, students aren’t receiving the care and education they deserve. From what I’ve gathered in my reading, the shortage inspired (bad) special education co-teaching situations, fast-track training programs, and shortcuts in qualifications, which mostly generated poor results. It is a shame because both parents and children put their trust in the school system every day, and are being let down on a consistent