By working with parents and other family members the students might gain unique perspectives not available in most special education courses. These were Karin VanDerlip's thoughts after attending a conference on family based practices several years ago. The Coordinator of Special Education Programs at St. Michael's College, Karin joined forces with Janna Osman, adjunct faculty member at St. Mike's and special educator at Rumney Elementary School, and Connie Curtin, Director of the Vermont Parent Information Center, to design just such a course. For the last four years they have been offering a semester long graduate level practicum through St. Michael's Graduate College. It matches graduate students enrolled in the special education program for teachers with the true experts-the families of children with special needs.
Students enter the program with a wide range of prior experience.
While some have never taught, others have been employed as regular or special educators. Throughout the semester, each student works with a designated family over the phone and in person. Students spend a minimum of 12 hours working with their families. Parents are asked to meet with their students and to share information about their families. As part of the program, each student attends a school IEP meeting strictly as an observer.