Meet Julie Beman

Julie Beman, a special educator in Connecticut, shares her journey into the classroom. Julie made the pivot to special education after a career in the corporate world, entering a new phase of her professional life working with exceptional children.

Where do you work?

The Grace Webb Schools

Why did you decide to pursue a career in special education?

I had wanted to be a teacher when I was a kid, but ended up at a small college that didn't have a teaching program. I had a career in information technology, and when I turned 50, I thought, "It's now or never!" and left the corporate world to become a teacher.

What led you to this career path? What steps did you take?

When I decided to become a teacher, I did a lot of research about which path to choose. I chose special education because I saw that there was a shortage of teachers, and I believe that everyone should have access to an education, so it ended up being a no-brainer. I also worked as a paraprofessional in a number of different settings. I had the opportunity to work with all sorts of exceptional children. When I started to work with middle schoolers with emotional and behavioral disorders, I knew I had found my people.

Describe the most exciting or rewarding aspect of your role.

As a teacher of students with emotional and behavioral disorders, establishing relationships is the most important thing I do. I want my students to feel safe, welcome, respected, and trusted. The most rewarding aspect of my job is when students start to believe in their abilities. And although it breaks my heart to lose them, I am excited when students get to return to their home schools after time with us in a therapeutic setting.

What advice would you give to a current teacher candidate interested in pursuing a similar career in the future?

I was astonished by the variety of paths available to a special educator. I recommend reaching out to Pupil Services departments in various districts to ask what kinds of programs the district has to offer its students. You'll be surprised at all the different programs and approaches used in different districts. That knowledge may help you narrow down your interests.

What general advice would you give to a high school or college student who is interested in pursuing a special education?

If you can, get a summer or part-time job working with students with disabilities. You will learn so much!

Anything else you want to share?

For my fellow career-changers: if your state requires you to get a master's degree, wait until you get a job before starting the degree. That way you can use tuition reimbursement to pay for some of your classes and avoid having to take out lots of student loans. I didn't do this because I didn't know. 

Learn from my mistake!