Special Education Teacher
The special educator teaches the
preschool curriculum according to the
Massachusetts state frameworks. A special
education teacher is professionally skilled
in understanding the different ways students
learn. If a student has difficulties, the
teacher will help modify how information is
presented in the classroom in order to
create a successful environment for the
student. The special education teacher also
helps foster the social-emotional
development of the whole child. The special
education teacher’s role as the contact
person is to be a liaison between the home
and school.
Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP)
An SLP works with children both in
and out of the classroom setting. An SLP
helps develop a child’s understanding and
ability to express language. This therapist
works with children who have difficulty
producing non- developmental speech sounds
which impacts their overall speech
intelligibility. An SLP also works with
children who have difficulty with oral motor
skills as well as auditory processing
(listening) difficulties. In addition, SLP’s
develop alternative forms of communication
when students display difficulty
communicating effectively. The SLP provides
parents with activities to promote
carry-over of skills to the home
environment.
Occupational Therapist (OT)
OT’s provide activities both in and
out of the classroom using specialized
equipment as needed to improve a child’s
sensory motor skill development including
fine motor, visual motor and self-help
skills. These skills are needed for play,
academic readiness, and daily school
activities. The OT also works with the
parents to provide strategies and activities
that will promote and carry-over skill
development at home.
Physical Therapist (PT)
The PT is a professional specially
trained to work on motor (physical movement)
and neuromuscular difficulties. When a child
experiences difficulty performing everyday
activities, the PT finds ways to accommodate
for the child’s physical difficulties so
that tasks may be completed. PT’s help
children promote movement, function, and
independence in daily activities.
Behavioral Specialist
A Behavior Specialist provides
service to children that are diagnosed with
Autism and/or present with behavioral and/or
social challenges. When these problems
affect a student’s ability to function in
school and maintain relationships with
teachers and peers, a Behavior Specialist
may intervene. The Behavior Specialist may
also work closely with parents and the
classroom teacher to create on
individualized home and/or school program to
meet the child’s needs. |
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