A self-contained classroom is a classroom where the same group of students are taught multiple subjects by one educator throughout the day. These classrooms are typically smaller settings with a fewer number of students, usually about ten students with unique struggles who are most commonly instructed by a lead teacher with a certification in special education. Self-contained classrooms are usually authorized by a Multiple Subject teaching credential and are generally found at the elementary level, but can be utilized in other grade levels.
The purpose of a self-contained classroom is to provide specialized support and interventions for struggling students with unique academic requirements. These classrooms are designed to help foster enhanced support for students with special needs or specific difficulties. Student-to-teacher ratios in self-contained classrooms are usually smaller than in general education classrooms and other less restrictive special education placements such as resource classrooms.
Self-contained classrooms are a special education placement that falls near the middle of a continuum of program options that range in restrictiveness, where the general education classroom is least restrictive and a hospital or a homebound placement is most restrictive. The main advantage of a self-contained classroom is that the students will receive a much more personalized, tailored approach to their education. Teachers are specifically trained in special education, and due to smaller class sizes, this individualized attention can foster a positive, supportive environment for academic, personal, and even social development.
