Rutgers Alternate Route candidates know there is more than one way to become certified full-time teachers. New Jersey substitute teachers and paraprofessionals are about to learn another—one that is specifically tailored to them.

In 2021, teacher apprenticeship programs began forming to address the growing teacher shortage. Data from the Learning Policy Institute discovered that roughly 406,964 provisionally licensed teachers still need to be fully certified, prompting action from state and federal governments.

Creating safe and inclusive learning environments is paramount for students' academic success and social-emotional well-being. A recent social media chat highlighted the importance of equipping educators, especially new teachers, with effective strategies to reduce incidents of harassment, intimidation, and bullying (HIB) in schools.

Support roles in education offer more than just support—they are a lifeline for schools, administrators, teachers and students. Studies have shown having a paraprofessional in the classroom can reduce teacher turnover and improve student outcomes. Likewise, substitute teachers are integral to promoting and maintaining student success.

These resources have been tried and tested by seasoned educators and are designed to help in various aspects of teaching, from lesson planning and student engagement to assessment and cultural immersion. Whether the goal is to introduce fresh elements into lesson plans or to discover new strategies for motivating and assessing students, these recommendations offer valuable insights and practical solutions to elevate language learning.

Starting a career in special education is both exciting and challenging. As you step into this important role, having the right resources at your fingertips can make a world of difference—not just for you, but for the students you'll be supporting. Special education is all about finding the best ways to meet each student's unique needs, and the right tools can help you do just that.