It is starting to be difficult to find certified special education teachers. This holds true locally, as the administration’s interest peaked after hearing the latest information about the Erie School District’s special education services.
These students have specific needs that certified professionals are prepared to meet, but it is difficult to provide that support when there are few candidates.
Special education professionals are desperately needed.
A report presented to the Erie School District board on Wednesday showed an increase of about 100 students enrolled with special education needs.
The same report states the teacher-to-special education student ratio is 1 to 17, and some say this ratio needs to be improved.
“I was really surprised by that number, but when I double-checked with the child accountant, she said the total number of students in the district was 400,” said Dr. Angela Kownacki, director of special education for the Erie School District. Ta.
What is the reason for the sudden increase in the number of registrants?
Kaunacki cited the closure of Erie Rise Leadership Academy and immigrant children entering Erie schools with unresolved issues.
Due to the increased demand, Kaunacki is asking school districts to open more classrooms and provide more staff to meet demand, but special education areas, including state barber shops, are understaffed. This has become a problem.
“We are always looking for teachers, special education certified teachers, and therapists interested in working with children with disabilities,” said Maureen Barber Carey, executive vice president of the Barber National Institute.
Barber-Carey said it’s getting harder and harder to come by.
“This is expertise that a typical or average speech therapist, physical therapist, or OT may not have,” she said. “We conduct interviews weekly. We are in contact with universities in the area.”
For example, Gannon University’s special program wants to help interested students with a bachelor’s degree earn early certification. And despite the shortage, Barber-Carey said Erie is one of the best places for families to find the help they need.
“Erie, Pennsylvania is the place you want to live if you have a child or adult with a disability because it’s where you’ll get the programs that are best for them,” Barber-Carey continued.
Kaunacki said the special education department is responding to demand and providing opportunities and programs for each student in need.