Absolutely! I am going on my third year with a co-teacher. I admit that it does take some getting used to because the teacher feels like he or she is relinquishing control. On the other hand, a regular education teacher is not qualified/trained in adequate ways to reach students with special needs the same way a SPED teacher may be. We did have this situation with another teacher and co-teacher last year and because I taught the same subject, I was able to help the co-teacher know what was going on (for the most part) in the other class he would be attending. Finally, he couldn't take it anymore because he scored poorly on an observation. The principal then established specific meeting times, two sets of lesson plans, and other ideas to force the two people to work together.

I've been blessed to work with cooperative co-teachers but I have also had experiences similar to yours as well. I would try to set up a non-confrontational meeting with the co-teacher to talk about your concerns and if they become hostile or refuse to cooperate I would take it to administration because your evaluations should not suffer.

Co-teaching can be a tricky situation, especially if your co-teacher was established in the classroom before you. I would ask the teacher once again if you could split the responsibilities since you are also evaluated on your effectiveness. Let her know that you have learned a great deal from her and would like to put what you have learned into action!

I've had some challenging coteachers. However this year I was fortunate to be placed with someone who can teach the content and doesn't mind changes in the plans. If this issue is something that is hindering the learning of students in the class I would first have an honest conversation with her first before escalating it to the administrator.