8. What are some factors that should be considered when creating a coteaching
school-wide schedule?
Some elementary schools stagger the content being taught, so that one specific
content is not taught in more than one place at the same time. Other elementary
schools teach one specific content class to all students at the same time,
allowing for student grouping based on need, which may allow the special
educator to move among classrooms.
In secondary schools, scheduling co-taught classes first, before other scheduled
classes, may allow for clearer expectations of students and teachers. This may
also send the message that co-teaching is important. Some secondary schools
assign a special educator to specific departments. This is particularly important
where the content may be perceived as being more difficult, such as in
mathematics or science classes.
One recommendation would be to begin with a master schedule that shows cotaught
classes and the common planning time.