7 Things I Would Tell Myself as a First-Year Special Education Teacher
Entering your first year of teaching especially in special education can feel overwhelming, exhilarating, and exhausting all at once. Looking back after nearly a decade in the classroom, there is so much I wish I could tell my first-year self.
If you are just starting out, or even if you're a veteran needing a refresher, here are 7 lessons I’ve learned along the way.
1. Do Not Be Afraid to Ask for Help
This was a major mistake I made during my first year. Honestly, I didn’t know what I didn’t know! Looking back, I wish I had asked questions even when I worried I’d sound silly. I had and still have a hard time with being a people pleaser and not wanting to disappoint them. I used to believe that asking for help made me a burden.
Over time, I’ve learned that asking questions isn't an inconvenience especially when you ask the right people. Seek out colleagues who genuinely want the best for you and your students. Anyone aligned with that mission will always be willing to lend a hand and share their knowledge.
2. You Are Not Alone
Teaching can sometimes feel isolating, but you don't have to carry the load by yourself. Trust me I have tried. And it is NOT fun. I have cried and stress and lost sleep over things that I could have gotten help with. When you build a supportive community around you, your students are the ones who thrive.
Early on, I remember struggling through difficult tasks alone, only to have a colleague walk in later and say, "Oh, I have a shortcut for that!" I felt frustrated that I hadn't reached out sooner. Remember: we are all educators going through similar challenges. Whatever you are experiencing, someone down the hall has been there and is ready to support you.
3. Set Your Routines Early (Inside and Outside the Classroom)
Routine is your best friend in education. I have come to love creating routines for myself and for my students. It has become one of the first things I make in the fall, and continue to improve.
In the classroom: Establish, practice, and maintain your classroom systems from day one. Stick to them consistently. Late in the school year, when both you and your students are running on low battery, those routines become pure muscle memory. Bonus: when you have rock-solid classroom routines, your room practically runs itself when you need a substitute!
Outside the classroom: Personal routines matter just as much. After years in the field, I’ve finally nailed down a morning routine that leaves me feeling alert, grounded, and ready to serve my students well. I’m also working on intentional after-school routines. Like completing two quick chores right when I get home before sitting down to unwind. It keeps me from crashing on the couch and leaves me feeling productive and fulfilled.
4. Document Everything
If there is one absolute golden rule in special education, it’s this: document, document, document.
Keep clear records of everything:
Student behaviors and interventions
Parent communication (both positive updates and tough conversations)
Admin check-ins
Syllabi, lesson plans, and modified assignments
Student growth
Detailed documentation protects you and your license. It gives your administrators the paper trail they need to advocate for you if a conflict arises, and it highlights all the incredible behind-the-scenes work you do for your team. So, find what works best for you. Now understand, your district or school might have a system for communication documentation, but it could never hurt to have multiple ways to document.
5. Prioritize Work-Life Balance Immediately
Work-life balance is a skill you have to practice intentionally. My first year, I failed miserably at this I brought mountain loads of paperwork home, canceled plans with friends and family, and completely neglected self-care.
It wasn't until my second year, thanks to an administrator who strongly emphasized well-being, that I learned to set firm boundaries. Now, work-life balance is a non-negotiable priority. When I am home, I am home. I only bring work past my front door when it is an absolute emergency. Protect your energy so you don't burn out. Now please understand, I know that boundaries is a hot topic now, but it is something that is truly vital to your well being. Saying no to extra duties, setting a bed time, or telling your significant other you need space after work can be hard. I struggle with it too.
6. Avoid the Comparison Trap and Be Forgiving with Yourself
You are the only you in education. The way you teach, connect, and manage your room is unique to your personality and strengths.
I’ve fallen into the comparison trap more times than I’d like to admit, and it almost always spiraled into severe imposter syndrome. Whenever you feel that creeping in, take a deep breath. Remind yourself that you were hired for a reason. Connect with a trusted colleague, remind yourself of your strengths, and recognize that teaching is a collaborative exchange you have things to learn from others, but they also have plenty to learn from you.
7. Truly Connect (and Reconnect) with Your "Why"
Your "why" is the anchor that keeps you steady during hard days.
Whether you are stepping into your very first classroom or you've been in the field for years, take time to reflect:
Why did I choose special education in the first place?
Why do I choose to show up every day?
How do I want to shape the future of inclusion for my students?
As you grow in your career, your "why" might evolve and that’s okay. Reconnecting with your core purpose will give you the drive to advocate for your students, shape a better system, and keep moving forward.
Over to You!
If you are a veteran educator, what is one piece of advice you’d give your first-year self? And if you're a new teacher, what is your "why" as you start this journey? Drop a comment below I'd love to hear your thoughts!
