This guidebook offers practical advice to support special education teachers in their first year of teaching. The first chapter, "Getting Ready To Teach," outlines preparations necessary before school begins, such as organizing the classroom and establishing planning and record-keeping strategies. "Tips for the Classroom" lists what teachers should discuss with students on the first day, what to prepare for a substitute teacher, and positive reinforcers. "Building Rapport" offers tips on working with co-workers, the administration, and parents. "Interfacing with Regular Educators" lists basic ingredients to a successful regular and special education partnership, suggests communication strategies, and notes sources of support. "Be Kind to Yourself and Enjoy" offers stress management tips for teachers and students. "Think about It" describes some situations that can be better handled if the teacher thinks about them ahead of time. By thinking ahead, the teacher is better able to find alternatives to cope with situations such as encountering severe behavior problems, vandalism, student smoking, or a potential student suicide. The final chapter, "Some Closing Thoughts," encourages new teachers to emphasize the positive aspects of their first year of teaching. The guidebook concludes with a list of information resources available from the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC), the "CEC Code of Ethics for Educators of Persons with Exceptionalities," and "CEC Standards for Entry into Professional Practice." (JDD)