Career Advice for Special Educators
Carlitta Tucker-Powell, MEd Special Education, was recently featured by CBS 2 Chicago discussing her insights into what it takes to succeed as a special educator in Chicago Public Schools. Tucker-Powell works as a special educator and case manager for the district.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, “Better screening and identification of various disabilities in children are expected to increase the demand for special education services. In addition, children with disabilities are being identified earlier and enrolled into special education programs, increasing the need for special education teachers in preschool and kindergarten grades.”
Carlitta Tucker-Powell, Case Manager and Special Education Teacher for Chicago Public Schools, offers some insight into what it takes to succeed in the special education field.
How does your education relate to your current role?
“I have a master’s degree in special education, and a Master’s of Education in curriculum and instruction. At Gwendolyn Brooks College Preparatory Academy, I am responsible for managing teachers and para-professionals through annual meetings involving student education plans, goals and progress. As the direct liaison for parent concerns and questions, I am responsible for taking care of any issues that may arise during the child’s time at school. As an inclusion teacher, I go into several classes with students who are identified as needing assistance in their general education courses. I provide accommodations and modifications to the students’ work if necessary, and collaborate with teachers to ensure everything is being done for student success.”
How has your education contributed to your success?
“My education has introduced me to a world I would not have had the opportunity to understand or contribute to if I had not acquired the information I did from my graduate program in special education. The success in my career is directly related to the classes I took in graduate school that introduced me to the field of special education, and the many challenges and opportunities I would encounter working with diverse learners.”