Special Education, built for real cultural exchange
Lattice is an international teacher exchange program with a strong Special Education focus. Roughly two-thirds of our recruitment and preparation is designed for SPED roles, because that is where preparation and support matter most for teacher success and student outcomes.
Special education is also where cultural exchange becomes tangible. It shows up in how teachers build belonging, communicate across difference, partner with families, and create predictable, supportive learning environments for students with the highest needs. Our exchange teachers arrive to learn U.S. practice in a structured way, and they also bring valuable perspective from their home systems that enrich classrooms, staff conversations, and community life.
U.S. SPED foundations, taught in practical language
Our SPED exchange teachers are prepared for the real “operating system” of U.S. special education, including FAPE and LRE as day-to-day decision filters, team-based eligibility and evaluation, and the core mechanics of IEP work (present levels, measurable goals, service minutes, accommodations vs. modifications, and progress reporting). We emphasize documentation habits, clear communication, and professional boundaries so teachers collaborate effectively with the teams responsible for local compliance.
Summer-to-school-year orientation
Orientation starts over the summer and continues into the school year. Core modules include curriculum, standards, and grading, classroom management and school discipline norms, Gen Ed and SPED collaboration, SPED systems and documentation habits, and applied behavior supports aligned to PBIS and MTSS. Training is practical and scenario-based so teachers can use it on day one.
Practice-based SPED preparation
We combine hands-on practice with core frameworks, including Autism overview, Emotional Disabilities, and PBIS, each taught with both practice and theory so teachers can adapt appropriately across settings.
Support designed for international SPED educators
We provide structured check-ins, coaching, and a community of practice to reduce isolation, catch issues early, and reinforce strong collaboration and communication habits throughout the year.