Special Ed teachers are so frustrated with the school system that they often leave and become private tutors, as this one shared in a recent email:
Susan, I have a real passion for the students who don’t catch on to reading and spelling when taught using regular curriculum.
In fact, that’s why I switched from being a regular ed teacher to a special ed teacher. I attended several Orton-Gillingham workshops and seminars, and I bought the first few Barton levels with my own money to use with my LD students.
For the past 2 years, I taught Barton as best I could within the special ed system – and got some fabulous results. My principal was amazed at the increased reading levels of my students.
But with all the “red tape” and political stuff we have to deal with, the special ed system does not allow me to do what I am I really passionate about: meeting each student’s individualized needs.
I am not allowed to spend enough time, with the correct resources, in a small enough group to help my students become the best they can be.
Sadly, I know I cannot change the special ed system. So I have decided to leave and start offering one-on-one Barton tutoring.
I know not every parent will be able to afford to hire me. But I would rather serve a few children well, so they reach their potential, then continue to serve many students poorly.
Wish me luck. This is a big leap of faith, and quite a change for me. But it’s the only way I can do what I’m passionate about: helping these bright kids the right way.
Bright Solutions for Dyslexia 
I am also a special ed teacher and this is exactly how I feel! Unfortunately, I cannot leave the system yet, but I am very excited for you and your new endeavor. Wishing you all the best!
Best of luck! That is my ultimate goal also, but while I wait, I am going to help as many of my special education students as I possibly can. I also have a passion for those who are not in special education, because I can’t help them at all. Please let me know how it works out for you!
I am a special education teacher and this is how I feel as well. I have been looking into tutoring on my own, but so far haven’t dared to change careers because I need the health insurance. Would love to hear how it all works out.