Miriam Learning Center is continually working to address needs in the community regarding students with learning differences. It’s no secret that we, as a society, are in the midst of a teacher shortage – and special education teachers are in even shorter supply.

Enter Miriam’s Gen Ed to Special Ed teacher training program.

This is the inaugural year of the program designed to train and mentor teachers as they receive their certification and spend their first year in a special education classroom. 
“We see the growing need in the community for certified and knowledgeable special education teachers who can meet unique learning needs,” said Becky Young, special education supervisor. “We provide training and mentorship to our newly certified teachers, so they feel supported in their role.”

Denise Dunn, the program’s first participant, started working with Young in the Learning Center in early 2024. She prepared for the certification test and passed in August. Dunn then took on a classroom teaching role in Miriam’s middle school.

“Becky has been a wonderful mentor,” Dunn said. “And teaching at Miriam has been a dream come true. Everyone – from the Learning Center to the Lower/Middle School – has been incredibly welcoming, friendly and supportive.”

Dunn began her career as a middle school teacher in Hancock Place School District. After a few years in the classroom, she transitioned into administration, working with students’ Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) and 504 Plans. Later, she spent some time as the pre-kindergarten special education coordinator at St. Louis Language Immersion School.

Dunn was drawn to the Gen Ed to Special Ed program for a few reasons. She has been increasingly involved with students who qualify for special education as her career has gone on, plus she seeks out opportunities for personal and professional growth. “This program certainly offered that.”

She also has children (now young adults) with medical disabilities who qualified for IEPs. “I’ve experienced both sides of the table, giving me a unique perspective and a deeper understanding of the process.”

Young said Dunn was a perfect candidate for this program. “She’s a wonderful educator who loves working with unique learners,” Young said. “She was already strong and talented, but felt she needed mentoring and support to be successful.”

Young hopes the Gen Ed to Special Ed program will have a growing impact on the field of special education, as teachers take advantage of the program to become well-trained, quality special educators. 

Why participate?

Young said anyone who enjoys working with unique learners, wants to add more tools to their toolbox, and make yourself more marketable to schools by adding a special ed certification would be a great fit.

Dunn said she is grateful to Miriam for offering the Gen Ed to Special Ed program and calls it an amazing opportunity. “This year has truly been one of the best of my career. It’s both wonderful and joyful. I can only hope that my students feel as happy and fulfilled as I do!

FUN FACT:

In a full-circle scenario, Miriam K-8 Head of School Mary Cognata was one of Denise Dunn’s elementary school teachers at St. Michael the Archangel. “While I always thought no teacher could ever top my own aunt, Sr. Chris, I met one of my three favorite teachers in the world: Mrs. Cognata.

“She was (and still is) incredibly stylish. She never raised her voice, always planned fun activities, genuinely cared about all of us, and had endless patience. She really listened, and it was clear she loved what she did. I knew then that I wanted to be a teacher just like her.”
 

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