Special education is a crucial aspect of the education system, providing support and resources to students with disabilities to help them succeed academically and socially. However, the demand for special education teachers continues to grow, leading to a shortage in districts across Texas, including Edgewood ISD.
Elizabeth Bowlin, a dedicated educator with a passion for special education, recently returned to the classroom to answer the call for more special education teachers in Edgewood ISD. Bowlin, who has a son with special needs, understands the importance of providing quality education and support to students with disabilities.
“I’ve always had a heart for special education, so I’m back,” Bowlin said. “Being in the education field for so long, you know where the needs are, and I always want to contribute and give the best of myself to my students and the community.”
Edgewood ISD has been actively recruiting special education teachers to fill the growing number of vacancies in the district. According to Jennifer Bernal-Tamaren, the Special Education director for the district, the shortage of special education teachers is a significant challenge not only for Edgewood ISD but for districts statewide.
“When you talk about special education, you talk about students who have been identified with a disability. There are 13 handicap conditions in Texas,” Bernal-Tamaren explained. The need for qualified special education teachers is essential to ensure that students with disabilities receive the support and resources they need to succeed in school.
At Edgewood ISD, special education teachers are offered a starting salary of approximately $59,000, with a $3,000 stipend for those who are certified in special education. The district is committed to providing competitive compensation to attract and retain qualified special education teachers.
One of the schools within Edgewood ISD that focuses on providing specialized education and support to students with disabilities is the Burleson School of Innovation. This campus caters to 18- to 22-year-old students who require vocational training, independent living skills, and socialization skills. The school is open to students from across the area, regardless of their district.
Bowlin encourages other special education teachers to join the efforts to fill the gap in educators and support students with disabilities. “We have to take that leap of faith and be able to embrace the challenge and work together as a team for our community,” she said.
In conclusion, the need for special education teachers in districts like Edgewood ISD highlights the importance of providing quality education and support to students with disabilities. Educators like Elizabeth Bowlin play a vital role in shaping the future of these students and ensuring they have the resources they need to succeed. As the demand for special education teachers continues to grow, it is essential for districts to prioritize recruiting and retaining qualified educators to support students with disabilities effectively.
