New to Special Ed and worn down

[loadmaster]

I was hired as an alternative certification teacher in special ed. I have been turned loose with no one to train me, or answer questions.....the special ed director has decided for some reason that our students will all have two IEP meetings this year. Once each semester. I am overwhelmed, have no guidance or help and I'm confused. Is this the way it's done? I'm considering a move to a different school district just to get some training. I hate to change schools, but I'm not able to see a light at the end of the tunnel here at this one. Any advice out there?:confused:

[jagnace]

I have been teaching Special Education for over 20 years and have NEVER heard of having two IEP's in one year unless you are doing an addendum. By law you are only required to meet annually to rewrite a new IEP. I would definitely question why they want to meet with the parents twice for the IEP in one year. You need to seek out a mentor teacher or request one. Our district has a program that runs for a year where a new teacher is paired with one with experience. It would be especially helpful for you to mentor with another teacher in the SPED Department. You are being asked to do way to much with zero support! If thiws school operates like that for everything I would definitely look for another job where collaboration is important for everyone.

[Chocolate new orleans]

I agree, I worked at an ESE job at a school like that, too. I have long since changed into my certification of Social Studies, but 2 is overkill. You can do progress checks without rewriting everything.

Either way, I would look elsewhere for the simple fact that there is no way, with what you describe, that your school can get A+ money if your ESE dept. is that screwed up.