Samantha Seeger

SPED 730 Teacher Interview Assignment

The purpose of this assignment was to connect with a teacher who serves as a mentor or

is seen as an expert in the field of Special Education. To be able to connect and learn about their

position, how they serve students with disabilities, how they perceive special education, and their

journey was the main purpose of this assignment. The other purpose of this assignment was to be

able to discuss what was learned throughout the course and apply it to the practice, discussing

current topics, and reflecting upon what was discussed.

Undeniably, this assignment did much more for me as an educator and as a person. It

allowed me to walk in someone elses shoes through their journey on becoming a special

educator. The conversation shed light onto her struggles and successes, the pivotal moments in

her career, and how her persistence paid off, which ultimately benefited her students. The drive

and love she has for her students was really inspiring. It solidified my decision to pursue the field

of special education. The knowledge and wisdom this teacher passed on through this interview

after just a few years of being a special education teacher was motivating.

The requirements were addressed by preparing a series of questions that were not only

required but that also would benefit me as a future special education teacher. The questions I

wanted to ask were meaningful and deeper on a different level. They pertained to my needs,

experience, and coincided with my job as an elementary school teacher. The questions asked

were prepared in advance which helped when it came to the interview. There were some

questions asked that were not prepared due to the flow of the conversation.

This assignment was difficult to revise due to the fact that it was a one on one live

interview. I did edit the mechanics of the reflection paper. I reworded a few sentences to reflect
Samantha Seeger

what I had learned based on all of the courses throughout this process. I also corrected some

grammar and spelling.

As stated previously, I gained a lot of knowledge from this particular teacher. Her work

ethic, dedication to her students, and willingness to collaborate were all qualities that I will learn

from. These qualities and her teaching strategies have helped to develop me as a special

educator. I have already begun implementing these strategies into my own general education

classroom. For instance, I have worked with students who have IEPs in a different light. I have

modified on a deeper level while keeping their interests and abilities in mind. The success the

students have had from these changes is rewarding. This interview will stick with me throughout

my career. I will continue develop and use my mentors experience to benefit my students in the

future.