From May 2022 through May 2023, I completed the coursework for a one-year Master of Education in Special Education through a 4+1 program at Penn State University. From this experience, I gained the knowledge and skills to be certified in Special Education PK-12 in the state of Pennsylvania. I graduated with honors in May 2023, and then I received my PA State Special Education Certification shortly thereafter.

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Throughout my time in this program, I acquired the critical knowledge and skills required for working with students with disabilities in schools across the country. Some of the skills included reading and writing Individualized Education Plans, instructional differentiation, accommodations, and modifications, and teaching using the Explicit Instruction Model. I also took courses specific in classroom and behavior management, reading instruction, writing instruction, and math instruction. I completed a Master's Paper where I completed Action Research with real students with disabilities.

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I also had two different student teaching experiences. During Fall 2022, I student taught in the LifeLink PSU Program, an extension of the State College Area School District, where I taught students ages 18-21 with social skills and independent living. I also mentored some of them in college level courses. During Spring 2023, I student taught in a 9th-12th grade autism support classroom in the State College Area High School. This opportunity allowed me to explicitly teach reading, math, and writing, and life skills. I also participated in individual student interventions, progress monitoring, and the IEP process.

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While I do not have plans for the future to become a special educator, I believe that the skills and knowledge I have gained through my experience in this program only strengthen my efficacy as a music educator. I am better able to put student accommodations in place, manage behaviors, and differentiate instructions on a daily basis. In addition, I am better equipped to collaborate with special educators and support staff in my district.

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The following documents are all artifacts from my time in the Penn State Special Education 4+1 Program which include lesson plans, pedagogy assignments, and my Master's paper.

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