Posted by:
John Crowe
Building admin/coordinator
Boston, MA

Topic:
Special Students Become the Experts

Message:
The addition of a mid-grade hand saw miter box to the woodworking center in my choice-based art room launched a wide variety of projects utilizing 45-degree cuts and scrap wood. The $100 saw turned out to be the wisest purchase ever. This piece of equipment was a huge hit with my "substantially separate" students, as they were labeled at the time. Shelving units, "Transformer" action figures, and doll beds were built, painted, and proudly carried back to their classrooms. These students eventually became experts and had a waiting list of other students wanting to learn from them. Most strikingly, I remember noticing the difference in their postures -- these special students stood straighter and walked with a bounce as others clamored for their expertise.

I found that integrated special needs students had a much easier time in a more open system, since there were many more "correct" ways to learn and create. Some students hopped from one center to another; others stuck with one center week after week. Instead of modifying a one-size-fits-all lesson for one or a few students, which can emphasize their special needs, students work from their strengths and are truly integrated with their classmates in an active mix of creative energy.

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