5 Student Teaching Tips Every Future Special Education Teacher Should Know

I’m thrilled to introduce you to Liliana Totten, an inspiring preservice special education teacher with whom I had the pleasure of working during her time at Grove City College. In this guest post, Liliana shares five Student Teaching Tips, especially for those preparing for a career in special education. So grab a cup of coffee and get ready for some real talk and encouragement!

Student Teaching Tip 1: You Are Ready for Student Teaching

All those field experiences, class discussions, and late-night lesson plans? They’ve prepared you for this moment. You may not know everything a seasoned teacher does—and that’s okay. Keep an open mind, stay curious, and soak up every opportunity to learn. This is your time to grow, and you are ready for it!

Student Teaching Tip 2: Reflect on Successes and Learn from Mistakes

Early in my student teaching, I taught a lesson that completely flopped. The students disengaged, and I was left with that dreaded “blank stare” across the room.

If you’re like me, you’ll replay that moment in your head a dozen times. My advice? Reflect, write down five specific improvements, laugh a little, and move on. Reflection is essential, but it should be balanced. Celebrate what went well and learn from what didn’t. That’s how you grow into the teacher you’re meant to be.

Student Teaching Tip 3: Embrace the Many Hats You Wear

As a student teacher, you’re not just a future educator. You’re also:

• A college student

• A learner in your field

• A liaison between your supervisor and the cooperating teacher

• A representative of your teacher prep program

• An advocate for your students and their families

• A specialist in your content area

It may feel overwhelming, but each role helps shape your professional identity. Don’t be afraid to ask questions; your mentors are there to support you. And when things get tough, remind yourself of all the ways you’re already succeeding.

Student Teaching Tip 4: Focus on Energy, Not Just Time

Yes, you read that right—look at the clock less. Time always feels tight in teaching, but instead of stressing over minutes, focus on managing your energy and your students’ engagement.

Plan intentionally. Utilize energizing strategies, such as brain breaks, interactive activities, and meaningful anticipatory sets. When you manage energy well, you’ll find your time becomes more productive and your classroom more joyful.

Recommended read: “Manage Your Energy, Not Your Time” – Harvard Business Review.

Student Teaching Tip 5: Enjoy the Journey

Student teaching is hard work, but it should also be fun! Build relationships with your students, colleagues, and families. Bring your personality into your teaching. When you’re passionate and authentic, your students will feel it, and you’ll enjoy the experience so much more.

About the Author: Liliana Totten

Hi! I’m Liliana Totten, a senior elementary and special education major at Grove City College. I recently completed my student teaching and will graduate in May 2019. I’m passionate about inspiring young minds and making education accessible for all learners. I’m also the founder of @thegeniuscorps, a program that connects middle schools with local colleges to provide high-quality, hands-on science experiences.

Final Thoughts: You’ve Got This!

Wow, what a powerful and practical post! Some of my favorite takeaways from Liliana’s story include:

• “This is a learning experience, and you are ready for it.”

• “Student teaching is where the rubber meets the road.”

• “Focus on keeping your students’ bodies, emotions, and minds energized.”

• “Immerse yourself in relationships and bring your personality into your teaching.”

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