Ready, SET, Woes: A Narrative Inquiry into Special Education Teacher Attrition by Transfer to General Education

Author

Brent G. Collom, University of New MexicoFollow

Publication Date

Fall 12-13-2024

Abstract

Despite the prevalence of unfilled special education teaching positions nationwide, it is fair to ask whether there is truly a shortage of special education teachers (SETs). While SETs leave education at high rates, they are almost twice as likely to transfer to general education positions. Many former SETs are employed in schools yet outside of special education.

This narrative inquiry examined the stories of 10 former SETs who transferred to general education. This study found that former SETs continue to identify as teaching special education. Former SETs want general education teachers (GETs) and administrators to have training in special education to promote true inclusive teaching models. As SETs, the participants experienced ostracism from GETs and principals along with pressure to push exceptional students through the system. No participants were recognized for their teaching craft as SETs, however, eight of 10 were acknowledged when they became GETs.

Keywords

special eduction, attrition, transfer, special education teacher, shortage, SET, retention, principal, leadership, ostracism, conservation of resources, narrative, qualitative

Document Type

Dissertation

Language

English

Degree Name

Educational Leadership

Level of Degree

Doctoral

Department Name

Teacher Education, Educational Leadership & Policy

First Committee Member (Chair)

Allison M. Borden

Second Committee Member

Shawn L. Secatero

Third Committee Member

Tyson E.J. Marsh

Fourth Committee Member

Russ Romans

Comments

Allison M. Borden and Shawn L. Secatero were co-chairs for this dissertation.

Recommended Citation

Collom, Brent G.. "Ready, SET, Woes: A Narrative Inquiry into Special Education Teacher Attrition by Transfer to General Education." (2024). https://digitalrepository.unm.edu/educ_teelp_etds/489