Teaching Special Education in Florida
More than 17,000 teachers have used American Board’s online teacher program to become full-time teachers in their state. Below is Jim Jaycox’s story, as told by him. He currently teaches special education in Florida, after earning his certification through American Board.
Jim Jaycox
“Prior to teaching, I had a career in retail management. I enjoyed my position at the time; however, I was required to work weekends and in the evenings which was not ideal to raising my family. As much as I enjoyed being a leader, I always felt as if something was missing intrinsically. I did not feel satisfied with my career.”
Why I Teach Special Education
“I have a nephew who is intellectually disabled, and I remember the struggles my sister experienced in regards to the school system and my nephew receiving a quality education. My sister’s stories became the seed that led me to pursue a career in education. I wanted to make a difference in the lives of young learners with varying disabilities.”
Jay continues, “I currently work at Steinbrenner High School in Tampa, Florida. I teach algebra, biology, and career prep to students with disabilities. Regardless of a student’s ability, I make sure that all of my students receive a quality education. I leave work everyday feeling satisfied and with a sense of accomplishment knowing that I’m making a difference in the life of my students and their families.”
Getting Certified
Jay explains his certification experience. “My first step was to visit my county’s department of education and to obtain information on becoming teacher certified. At the office, I was given a handout: Routes to a Florida Professional Certificate. I had no idea that this piece of paper was about to change my life. After crossing off most of the routes, I stumbled upon the American Board for Certification of Teacher Excellence. I visited the website (for Florida) and took advantage of a promotion which gave me a free week to explore the American Board program. After my free trial, I knew that ABCTE was the program for me. I recall my excitement and feeling like the program was designed especially for me. It was affordable, feasible, and efficient!”
Jay continues, “American Board’s program was successful in preparing me for the necessary certification exams. All materials were conveniently online for this self-study program. The fact that it was self-paced was also helpful. The study plan, quizzes, and practice exams were very helpful, too. I was able to assess my own progress and determine which areas I needed to work on harder.”
Certification Tips
Jay took time to share some study tips to help future teachers success with American Board. He explains, “the approach to studying that worked best for me was a combination. I wrote down my own notes for each topic and periodically reviewed them. I also took multiple practice quizzes/tests and went over the correct answers to better understand why the other choices were wrong. The greatest piece of advice I have for current candidates is to be DISCIPLINED. Take the program seriously and plan to work hard. You have to learn and study to pass the exams. Dedicate a few hours each week to the program and give yourself five months (give or take) to prepare for the exams. Be 100% committed to the program, and you will succeed.
Conclusion
Happily, Jay concludes his blog by saying, “I love my job! Thanks American Board!”
At American Board, we love helping future teachers enter the classroom. Are you still wondering if teaching is the right career for you? Visit American Board’s website to learn more about the certification process in your state. Florida needs thousands more teachers to fill classrooms. Consider starting toward your new career today!
Still curious? You can visit American Board’s YouTube channel to hear directly from other graduates.
