Effective Assessment Tools for Evaluating Behavior
Behavioral assessment is crucial in educational settings, especially for special education teachers. It helps identify student needs, informs intervention strategies, and guides individualized education plans (IEPs). In this blog post, we will explore various assessment tools and methodologies that can be effective in evaluating student behavior. Functional Behavioral Assessment (FBA) The Functional Behavioral Assessment (FBA) […]
25 Pieces of Advice SPED Parents Wish They Got Before Their Child Got an IEP
Navigating the Special Education process can be overwhelming for parents. Understanding Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and advocating for their child’s needs is a journey filled with challenges. Here are 25 valuable pieces of advice that SPED parents wish they had known earlier. Be Your Child’s Best Advocate You are your child’s strongest supporter. No one […]
Navigating Conversations About Disabilities with Parents
In the classroom, teachers often face the challenge of supporting students with disabilities while respecting family dynamics. When parents prefer not to discuss their child’s disability openly, it becomes crucial for educators to approach the situation with sensitivity and understanding. Navigating conversations about disabilities with parents can be tricky! The goal is to provide necessary […]
10 Social Skills Goals for Non-Verbal Students
Supporting non-verbal students in developing their social skills is essential for fostering meaningful interactions and promoting inclusion in various settings. Here are ten social skills goals that can be included in an Individualized Education Program (IEP), along with explanations of their benefits. Remember that you will need to adjust the goals to make them measurable […]
What is an IEE and When Should You Request One?
Navigating the world of special education can be complex for parents and guardians. One important component in this process is the Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE). Understanding what an IEE is, its significance, and when to request one can empower you as an advocate for your child’s educational needs. What is an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE)? […]
The Importance of Working with General Ed Teachers on IEP Data Collection
Collaboration between special education teachers and general education teachers is vital for the success of students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). Effective communication and teamwork can lead to better outcomes for students, ensuring that they receive the support they need to thrive in the classroom. Without that collaboration, IEP goals can fall by the wayside, […]
What Qualifies a Student for ESY?
Extended School Year (ESY) services are crucial for some students with disabilities, ensuring they continue to receive the support they need beyond the traditional school year. Understanding the qualifications for ESY can help educators and parents advocate effectively for their students and gather the necessary documentation to ensure that their student receives services. But now, […]
10+ Ways Parents Can Prep for an IEP Meeting
Walking into an IEP meeting can be stressful and nerve wracking for anyone, but especially for a parent. When a parent has a student with an IEP, they are used to hearing about the things their child canโt do more than they hear what their child can do. Most of the time, they also donโt […]
Note-Taking During an IEP Meeting
During an Individualized Education Program (IEP) meeting, note-taking is essential to ensuring that special education students receive the services they need. As a special educator, documenting everything discussed during the meeting is crucial for tracking progress and ensuring that each student receives the appropriate instruction detailed in their IEP. By taking accurate and detailed notes, […]
Types of Least Restrictive Environments
In special education, the concept of Least Restrictive Environments (LREs) plays a crucial role in ensuring that students with disabilities receive the appropriate level of support while being included in general education settings to the maximum extent possible. LREs refer to the educational settings where students with disabilities can learn alongside their non-disabled peers. Let’s […]
IEP Toolkit
There are so many parts to a studentโs Individualized Education Program (IEP)โฆ and these parts are constantly being changed and revised on at least a yearly basis at minimum. An IEP is a living document! As part of the IEP Team, you are responsible for drafting the entire IEP (this depends on what state you live in […]
Understanding the Importance of Signing Off on an IEP
When it comes to Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), the involvement of IEP team members is crucial in ensuring the success and effectiveness of the plan. One key aspect of this process is obtaining signatures from all team members to signify their agreement and commitment to the goals set forth in the IEP. What Does Signing […]
How to Achieve Maintenance of Skills Learned
It is crucial for special education teachers to focus on maintaining the skills their students have learned and mastered in their Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). Without regular practice and reinforcement, students may easily lose the progress they have made. Just like with any skill, consistency is key to retention. Students with special needs may require […]
Understanding IEP Amendments: What Parents Need to Know
Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) play a crucial role in ensuring that students with disabilities receive the necessary support and accommodations to succeed in school. However, the process of amending an IEP can be complex and confusing for parents. In this blog post, we will delve into the details of IEP amendments and provide parents with […]
IEP Writing Timeline
Creating an IEP involves a series of steps that require collaboration among educators, parents, and other stakeholders. A well-defined timeline serves as a roadmap, guiding the team through assessments, goal setting, implementation strategies, and progress monitoring. But where do you begin and, perhaps more importantly, when should you start when you need to write an […]
Scaffolding vs. Differentiation in Instruction
When it comes to teaching and instructional strategies, two commonly used terms are scaffolding and differentiation. While both are aimed at supporting students’ learning, they serve distinct purposes and are implemented in different ways. Let’s dive into the details of each to better understand their applications and benefits. Scaffolding in Instruction Scaffolding refers to the […]
What is the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE)?
In the field of special education, one key concept that guides decision-making regarding the placement of students with disabilities is the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE). The LRE principle underscores the importance of educating students with disabilities alongside their non-disabled peers to the greatest extent possible in order to meet their individual needs effectively. What Does […]
Understanding Twice-Exceptional Students
Being “twice exceptional” refers to individuals who have exceptional abilities or talents alongside a learning disability or challenge. These students possess both intellectual gifts and special needs, creating a unique profile that can be quite complex to address in educational settings. What Does Being Twice Exceptional Mean? Twice-exceptional students often display high intelligence, creativity, or […]
Team Building Activities for Special Ed Teachers and Paras
Team building is crucial for fostering a positive and supportive environment in any workplace, especially for special education teachers and the paraprofessionals who work in their classrooms. Collaborating effectively and building strong relationships within the team can greatly enhance the quality of education and support provided to students with special needs. Here are some team-building ideas tailored specifically for special […]
Do We Need 80% Accuracy for IEP Goals?
Whenย it comes toย setting IEP goals related to skills, determining the appropriate accuracy percentage is essential for measuring progress effectively.ย Should everythingย justย be a blanket 80% accuracy forย each and everyย goal without evaluating them? No, it absolutely should not (we’ll get there!). I have encountered so many new-to-me IEPs where the student’s accuracy percentages were all 80%. While I […]
IEP Data Sheets Special Education Teachers Love
In special education, anything that makes managing a caseload of students more manageable and efficient is a must. Data sheets are invaluable tools thatย canย greatlyย assist teachers in effectively monitoring and tracking their students’ progress.ย These sheets are detailed documents that allow teachers to record specific information about a student’s behavior, academic performance, and other important metrics. By keeping accurate and up-to-date […]
What is a Trauma-Informed IEP?
Understanding and addressing the impact of trauma on students is crucial in creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment. One significant way to support students who have experienced trauma is through the development of a Trauma-Informed Individualized Education Program (IEP). In this blog post, we will explore the concept of trauma-informed care, delve into the […]
Test Taking Accommodations for Students in Special Ed
Test taking can be a challenging experienceย for many students, but for those in special education, it can present even greater obstacles.ย Students with special needs may require accommodations to ensure they have an equal opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge and skills during assessments. These accommodations are designed to level the playing field and provide a fair […]
Your New IEP Writing Playlist
Are you a special education teacher in need of some motivation and inspiration while writing Individualized Education Programs (IEPs)? Look no further! In this IEP writing playlist, we have curated a list of 50 songs that will help you stay focused, energized, and positive as you tackle the ever important task of writing IEPs for […]
10 Terrible IEP Goals and How to Fix Them
Unfortunately, as a special educator, you probably know that many IEP goals fall short and need more clarity, specificity, and measurability. Together, we will explore the pitfalls of ineffective IEP goals and provide insights onย how to enhance and refineย them.ย We will give ten examples of poorly written goals and then show you how to write it […]
Behavior Interventions for Any Situation
Anyone that works with students in special education knows that dealing with different types of behaviors is always part of the job whether you are a teacher or their parent. Knowing some intervention strategies for dealing with different types of situations and to prevent certain situations can always be helpful in the special education world. […]
Understanding Effective Progress in an IEP
Effective progress. What is it, and why is it important in terms of your students’ IEPs? One key aspect of an IEP is defining what “effective progress” means for the student. In this blog post, we will explore the concept of effective progress in an IEP and how it impacts the educational development of students. […]
Options After High School for Special Ed Students
After high school, special education students have various pathways to consider for their future. Including the student in the decision-making process about their options after high school is a crucial aspect of the transition section of the Individualized Education Program (IEP). By involving the student in discussions and considerations regarding their future, their preferences, interests, […]
Understanding โTrialsโ in an IEP Goal
You’ve heard the term before, but what do “trials” actually mean in an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) goal?ย Students with special needs who have an IEP rely on the legal document to help them succeed in their education journey. Within an IEP, goals are set to help students make progress in various areas. Goals can […]
Different Types of Learning Styles
Understanding how your students learn best enables you to create more appropriate, engaging lessons that they will be able to comprehend. But what are the ways most people learn? Uncover the top three learning styles below and explore some of the lesser-known styles as well. Understanding them will help you become a better educator and […]
Handling a Midyear Amendment to an Individualized Education Program (IEP)
When a parent requests an amendment to their child’s IEP midyear, it is essential to approach the situation with care and diligence. It’s also important to note that the process of amending an IEP can vary based on state laws and school district policies. However, there are general procedures that special educators can follow to […]
Tracking Documentation of IEP Meeting Invites to Parents
When it comes to ensuring successful communication and coordination of Individualized Education Program (IEP) meetings with parents, tracking documentation of meeting invites is crucial. But finding a way to keep track of all of the IEP meeting invites can be challenging and, at times, overwhelming. Why You Need to Track IEP Invites Tracking documentation of […]
The Importance of Using Student Interest Surveys When Writing IEPs
Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) are designed to meet the unique needs of students with disabilities, ensuring that they receive the appropriate educational support and services. One crucial aspect of creating an effective IEP is understanding the studentโs individual interests, preferences, and strengths. This is where student interest surveys play a vital role. What are Student […]
10 Tips for Providing Service Minutes to Students in In-School Suspension
In-school suspension (ISS) is a disciplinary measure many schools use to address behavioral issues and ensure a conducive learning environment. For special education students serving ISS, it’s essential to consider their individual needs and ensure that they continue to receive the necessary services and support.ย Here are ten tips for educators and administrators on providing […]
Tips for Writing a Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP) Summary
Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs) are crucial for managing challenging behaviors in students with special needs. While BIPs typically contain detailed information about behavior, data collection, and interventions, creating a concise BIP Summary can greatly benefit teachers and support staff. Here are some tips on how to craft an effective Behavior Intervention Plan Summary. Behaviors of […]
Enhancing IEP Team Collaboration Through Input Forms
Collaboration is key when it comes to developing Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) that truly meet the unique needs of students with disabilities. An essential aspect of this collaboration lies in gathering input from various stakeholders, including teachers, specialists, and parents, to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the student’s academic and behavioral performance.ย This blog post […]
How to Write IEP Progress Reports
As a special education teacher, it is important to understand how to write progress reports for your students. While you may have been accustomed to writing report cards at the semester level in general education, progress reports for special education students are typically due quarterly. This guide aims to provide you with valuable insights and […]
Where to Start When Writing an IEP
Writing an Individualized Education Program (IEP) as a new special education teacher may initially appear overwhelming. But with the right guidance and resources, you can gain confidence in navigating this crucial process. This blog post aims to offer a step-by-step guide to assist you in getting started with writing an IEP for your students. Understanding […]
Why Goal Banks Are Better Than Using AI
While there are different approaches to crafting IEP goals, one effective method preferred by many special educators is the use of IEP goal banks. These goal banks serve as a starting point for educators as they craft IEP goals that align with each students’ needs. While there has been debate over whether or not artificial […]
Understanding Specially Designed Instruction (SDI) in Special Education
Special education plays a crucial role in providing support and meeting the unique needs of students with disabilities. One key aspect of special education is specially designed instruction (SDI), which is legally mandated to ensure that students receive an education tailored to their specific requirements. In this blog post, we will explore what SDI means, […]
Managing Deadlines and Paperwork as a Special Education Teacher: Practical Tips for Success
Being a special education teacher comes with its own unique set of challenges, and one of the most demanding aspects of the job is managing deadlines and paperwork. Balancing planning, teaching, resource minutes, data collection, and writing Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) can feel overwhelming. However, with effective organizational strategies and practical tips, special education teachers […]
Tips for Documenting Service Minutes for an IEP
When it comes to documenting service minutes for an Individualized Education Program (IEP), accuracy and thoroughness are crucial. The service minutes reflect the amount of time a student receives special education services, and they play a vital role in ensuring the student’s needs are met. In this blog post, we will explore some tips for […]
The Crucial Role of General Ed Teachers in an IEP Meeting
General ed teachers play a crucial role in the IEP process and IEP meetings. IEP meetings are a pivotal platform for educators, parents, and professionals to develop personalized plans for students with disabilities. While special education teachers play a significant role in these IEP meetings, it is important not to overlook the crucial contributions of […]
Writing a Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP) in 10 Steps
Writing a BIP or Behavior Intervention Plan can be challenging if you don’t know where to start. These ten steps can help you navigate the process. As special educators, one of our fundamental responsibilities is to support students with challenging behaviors and help them succeed in the classroom. A behavior intervention plan (BIP) is a […]
Understanding Autism IEP Goals, Objectives, and More
Autism IEP goals can, initially, seem intimidating, but they don’t have to be. Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) play a pivotal role in providing tailored support and accommodations to meet the distinctive needs of students. For students with autism, the implementation of IEPs becomes particularly crucial as they aim to address the specific challenges that may […]
5 Simple Ways to Track IEP Service Minutes Each Day
As an educator involved in an Individualized Education Program (IEP), it is crucial to accurately track the service minutes provided to the student each day. Tracking IEP service minutes ensures that the student receives the appropriate support and helps in monitoring their progress. But, tracking IEP service minutes can often be a daunting task. In […]
The Power of Impact Statements in IEPs
Within the realm of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), impact statements hold immense significance in helping educators identify and address the unique needs of students with disabilities. These statements go beyond a mere acknowledgment of a student’s disability and delve into the specific ways in which it affects their learning and progress. By understanding the individual […]
7+ Ways to Share IEP Information with General Ed Teachers
Sharing students’ IEP information with their general education teachers is important. Not only do general ed teachers need to be kept in the loop as to what a student’s IEP says, but they also need the information so that they can implement what is in the IEP. But what is the most effective way of […]
What โProcedures for Collecting Dataโ Might Mean in Your Childโs IEP
As a parent of a student with an Individualized Education Program (IEP), it is crucial to clearly understand the components within your childโs plan to ensure their educational success. One such component that often raises questions is the term โprocedures for collecting data.โ In this blog post, we will delve into what this term means […]
10 Things to Remember When Writing IEP Goals
Writing Individualized Education Program (IEP) goals is a crucial aspect of a special education teacher’s job. These goals serve as roadmaps for students with disabilities, outlining the specific skills they need to develop and the progress they need to make.ย As a special education teacher, it’s essential to create IEP goals that are meaningful, measurable, […]
10 Steps in the IEP Writing Process
Writing an Individualized Education Program (IEP) is a crucial aspect of your role as a special education teacher. An IEP serves as a roadmap for supporting students with disabilities, ensuring they receive the necessary accommodations and modifications to succeed academically and socially. Let’s walk through the ten essential steps in the IEP writing process, helping […]
Tracking Accommodations in the General Ed Classroom: Practical and Efficient Strategies for Special Ed and General Ed Teachers
Accommodations play a crucial role in ensuring the success of special education students in the general education classroom. These modifications and supports are designed to level the playing field and enable students with disabilities to access and participate in the curriculum. However, tracking the use of accommodations can be challenging for special and general education […]
How Students Can Help with Data Collection
As special education teachers, one of our primary goals is to ensure that our students with individualized education programs (IEPs) make progress toward their goals. Traditionally, data collection has been the responsibility of the teacher alone. However, involving students in the process not only empowers them to take ownership of their learning but also enhances […]
The Importance of Sharing Raw Data with Parents
As special education teachers, we play a vital role in the Individualized Education Program (IEP) process, working closely with students, parents, and other professionals. One crucial aspect that deserves our attention is sharing raw data with parents. In this blog post, we will discuss what raw data is, why it is important, why it should […]
5 Things to Do Before Your First IEP Meeting
As first year teachers, we know that the first time stepping foot into a classroom can be extremely nerve wracking.ย But as Special Education teachers, I think we can all agree that the most nerve wracking thing is going to be that first IEP meeting.ย No matter how much they teach us during our schooling, […]
19 Things Not to Say in an IEP Meeting
When we are immersed in writing IEPs, we are often focused on all the important pieces that need to be entered into the document, and we should be. There is so much to add, and we donโt want to (and actually canโt!) leave anything out. As we prepare for the actual IEP meeting, there are […]
Fostering Self-Advocacy: Discussing Accommodations and IEPs with Students
Inclusive education is crucial for students with disabilities to thrive academically and socially. Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) ensure students receive the necessary accommodations and support to succeed in their educational journey. However, it is equally important for students to understand their IEPs and actively participate in discussions surrounding their accommodations. This post will delve into […]
What to Do When a Parent Doesnโt Collaborate on an IEP
Collaboration between special education teachers and parents is crucial for the success of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). However, there are instances when parents may not actively participate or collaborate in the IEP process. In this blog post, we will explore strategies that special education teachers can use when faced with challenges related to parental involvement […]
When to Include Related Services in an IEP
In special education, Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) play a crucial role in ensuring that students with disabilities receive the support they need to succeed academically and socially. One important aspect of developing an effective IEP is determining when to include related services. Related services are specialized supports and interventions that help students with disabilities fully […]
Digital Data Collection Tools for Teachers
Letโs talk data collection. Itโs probably one of, if not THE most important part of our job as Special Education teachers, right? Well, besides the IEP of course. But the driving factor behind an IEP is data. Data to show if the student is making progress, data to show if the student is not making […]
How to Explain the Implementation of Service Minutes
When writing an IEP, the most important part we as Special Education teachers must adhere to are the IEP service and service minutes.ย If you write in the IEP that you are going to see a child 5x a week for 30 minutes, then you need to make sure you see that child 5x a […]
IEP Progress Report Red Flags for Parents to Look For
Are you a parent new to the special education world and just getting your first quarterly progress report on your childโs IEP goals? Or are you a seasoned parent who just isnโt quite sure what to look for when reviewing your childโs quarterly progress report? We’re here to help with that. One way to help […]
How to Send Home a Proposed IEP Draft
How often do you find that when you are in an IEP meeting, the parents have questions about what is included in the IEP or have questions regarding the goals, data, or maybe they just need a bit more clarity. Probably more than you would think, right? One way to help alleviate that stress and […]
7 Clarifying Questions Teachers Should Ask at an IEP Meeting
Positive and productive IEP meetings lay the groundwork for better student outcomes, but when team opinions clash and emotions run high, a meeting can fall apart before you know it.ย Sometimes, having a neutral third-party facilitator can make all the difference in the success of a meeting.ย Being sure to have a facilitated IEP meeting […]
A Step-by-Step Guide to Graphing Special Ed Data from a Google Form
Graphs are powerful visual tools that help us understand and interpret data. If you’ve collected data for your special ed students using a Google Form and want to present it in a clear and engaging way, graphing is the way to go. Today, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of graphing data from […]
When to Write IEPs with No Planning Period
As a special education teacher, writing Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) is one of the most critical tasks you’ll do throughout the school year. An IEP outlines a student’s strengths, weaknesses, and goals and serves as a legal document that provides direction for their education. However, as a special education teacher, finding the time to write […]
Books Youโd Recommend to Another Special Education Teacher
Special education teachers play a crucial role in the lives of students with diverse needs. From learning disabilities to physical impairments, special educators work tirelessly to create an inclusive and supportive classroom environment. One way for special education teachers to enhance their skills and knowledge is to read books for teachers written by experts in […]
Keeping Track of Your Professional Development
As a special education teacher, staying up-to-date with the latest trends and best practices in the field is important. One way of doing this is by completing professional development hours each year. However, keeping track of these hours can be challenging, especially when juggling a busy schedule and other responsibilities. In this article, there are […]
Improving the IEP Meeting Experience for Parents
Attending an IEP meeting as a parent can be a scary and emotional experience. Parents want to make sure that their children are given every opportunity to succeed, and they are a vital part of a child’s IEP team. Itโs our job as educators to make parents feel heard and to let them know that […]
How to Get Teacher Buy In for IEP Collaboration
Getting your general education teachers to buy in for IEP collaboration can be a daunting task. However, the outcome can be incredibly rewarding if it is done correctly. Here are ten tips to help make sure that your staff members feel comfortable and prepared to collaborate on IEPs. 1. Provide Training Before any collaborations take […]
Must-Have Para Trainings
Paras in the special education classroom are essential for helping students reach their full potential. To ensure that paras can provide quality support to their students, it is vital that they receive regular training on a range of topics. Here are seven para trainings to consider: Para Trainings for the School Year 1. Classroom Management […]
When You Donโt Feel Heard at an IEP Meeting: What to Do
Individualized Education Program (IEP) meetings can be stressful for both parents and educators. The goal of the meeting is to discuss the student’s needs and come up with a plan that meets those needs. However, sometimes one may not feel heard in these meetings, which can be frustrating and discouraging. If you find yourself in […]
Which Work Samples to Keep in Special Ed
As a special education teacher, keeping work samples for each student is important. These work samples serve as evidence of the student’s progress and can also be used to set goals, track growth, and inform future instruction. So, what types of work samples should you keep for your students in special education? Is there a […]
What to Do When an IEP Isnโt Being Followed
An Individualized Education Program (IEP) is a legal document that outlines the educational needs of students with disabilities. The purpose of an IEP is to ensure that every child has access to a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) that meets their unique needs. It is a legally binding document that the school must follow. Unfortunately, […]
The 8 Executive Functions
In the field of education, there are things known as executive functions. Executive functions are defined as cognitive processes that control, regulate and manage other cognitive processes. They allow people to prioritize tasks, plan ahead, and organize their thoughts and actions.ย These skills can be especially beneficial for children with learning differences or disabilities in […]
Pre-referral Screeners to Assess Students
A pre-referral screener is a tool that is used to identify students who may be struggling academically or behaviorally. Pre-referral screeners can be used to help educators make decisions about whether or not to refer a student for special education services. Pre-referral Screeners There are many different types of pre-referral screeners available, each with its […]
The Importance of IEP Input Forms
Schools develop Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) to ensure that students with disabilities receive a free appropriate public education (FAPE). The IEP document serves as a plan that outlines a student’s specific educational goals and objectives and the services that will be provided to help the student reach those goals. Writing an effective IEP requires thoughtful […]
Tips for Getting All The IEP Paperwork Done
Getting all of the IEP paperwork done can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. With some preparation and planning, you can ensure everything is completed on time and correctly. In this article, we’ll provide some tips for getting your IEP paperwork done quickly and efficiently so that you can focus on […]
Battling IEP Writing Burnout
Writing Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) can be an incredibly rewarding experience, but it can also lead to burnout. IEP writing requires a great deal of time and energy, and the process of creating meaningful plans for each student can become draining over time. Fortunately, there are steps that educators can take to fight against IEP […]
IEP Meeting Management Tips
IEP meetings can be a time of great stress for parents and educators. With so much on the line, it’s important to make sure that the meeting runs as smoothly as possible. To help ensure success, we have compiled some tips for managing an IEP meeting so that all parties involved feel heard and respected […]
Benefits of Using Digital and Paper and Pen Data Collection Methods
Collecting data for special education students is an important part of the educational process. In order to accurately assess their progress and make informed decisions, it’s essential that teachers and administrators have access to accurate, up-to-date information. Unfortunately, collecting this data can be a challenge – especially for teachers with large caseloads. From paper and […]
Where to Put Toileting Help in an IEP
As a special ed teacher, you know that individualized education programs (IEPs) are an essential part of helping all students achieve the best outcomes possible. One area within IEPs that can sometimes cause confusion is where to list toileting help. Here we will address exactly where toileting help should go for your studentโs IEP, so […]
Unwritten Teacher Rules of IEP Writing
As a special ed teacher, you know that student success starts with the IEP. But what are some key steps you should follow when writing IEPs? There’s a lot of advice from experts on best practices for writing Individuals Educational Plans (IEPs). Still, much of it relies on unwritten rules that veteran teachers have used […]
Writing Strengths-Based Statements in the Present Levels
Writing strengths-based statements is an integral part of the Individual Education Plan (IEP) procedure for special education teachers. But it can be quite challenging to identify which capabilities and talents should be featured in strength statements, specifically because needs must always direct goals, and goals drive services.ย So let’s break it down together. What are Strengths-Based […]
What is a Fidelity Check?
Fidelity checks are an essential part of special education, ensuring that teaching and supporting practices align with best practices. A fidelity check is a systematic review that takes place to measure the accuracy and consistency of implementation for a particular practice or intervention. It can provide important feedback about how well programs, interventions, and strategies […]
Why Itโs Important to Meet with General Ed Teachers Prior to IEP Writing
When writing an Individualized Education Program (IEP) for a student, it is important to meet with general ed teachers ahead of time. This consultation can provide invaluable insights into the feasibility of accommodations and modifications that may be necessary for the student, as well as information on any potential time limits or class size restrictions […]
Understanding โX of Y Trialsโ
Understanding special ed jargon can be challenging! With so many acronyms and a language all its own, even the most seasoned teachers need clarification. When it comes to IEP writing, one of the most common phrases refers to the number of times a student should show mastery of a skill. It is usually referred to […]
Skills to Add to Transition Surveys
When planning to transition from school to life after school, it is important for students with special needs to learn certain skills. These skills can help them have a successful and independent life. Some of the skills that should be included in a transition survey include the overarching skills of communication, self-advocacy, problem-solving, time management, […]
What is Differentiation in Education?
Differentiation in education is a concept that refers to the instruction and assessment of students based on their individual learning needs. Differentiated instruction allows educators to provide each student with a personalized learning experience, allowing them to work at their own pace, move ahead faster or slower than their peers, and set challenging goals for […]
Explaining ESY to Parents in an IEP Meeting
Extended school year (ESY) services are specialized educational supports for students with an Individualized Education Program (IEP). ESY services provide additional learning support to help them make meaningful progress in their overall academic and social-emotional development. These services can be delivered outside of the traditional school year, such as during summer months or holidays, and […]
Different Types of IEP Meetings
When we talk about IEP meetings, we are most commonly talking about the annual IEP meeting where services and goals are updated or introduced to help a student over the course of the next calendar year. While those are the most common type of IEP meetings, there are other types of meetings that fall under […]
What to Do Before, During, and After an IEP Meeting
As special education teachers, we have a lot on our minds when we are preparing for IEP meetings! And sometimes after the meeting is done, we are so busy getting back to the business of teaching that we forget to follow up on some crucial IEP details. Did you ever wish that there was a […]
7 Reasons to Use an IEP Goal Bank
Writing an individualized education plan (IEP) that meets the needs of each student can be a daunting task -especially when you have a large caseload! Fortunately, educators have access to IEP goal banks that can help them easily create accurate and up-to-date IEPs tailored to their studentsโ specific learning objectives. By using IEP goal banks, […]
5 Ways to Collect Data from General Ed Teachers
Special education teachers need input from general ed teachers when developing an Individualized Education Program (IEP). Gathering information from the general ed teacher in a timely and efficient manner is critical for designing educational plans that fit each student’s unique needs. But getting that information is not always easy when everyone’s time is limited. Here […]
Setting Expectations for High School Paras in Special Ed
Paraprofessionals play an essential role in high school special education classrooms. They are there to help support the teacher and students but may need to gain the experience to know exactly what to do or how to do it. In those instances, it is important to provide the para with direction to ensure they know […]
6 Doable New Years Resolutions for Teachers
I sat down this morning with my IEP coach hat on to get to work and all that was on my mind was setting resolutions for next year. Now, I am one of those people that either doesn’t set a resolution because I know it won’t happen OR I set one and by the end […]
The Difference Between SDI and Differentiation
Understanding the differences between Specially Designed Instruction (SDI) and differentiation in lessons can allow special educators to work with their students effectively. So, what are the differences between SDI and differentiation, and what do they mean for special education students? Understanding SDI Specially Designed Instruction (SDI) is an educational approach that focuses on individualizing the […]
A Parentโs First IEP Meeting
The first IEP meeting can be an intimidating experience for parents. It is important to remember that you know your child best and have valuable insight into their needs. Here are some tips for attending your first IEP meeting. Attending Your First IEP Meeting Gather Information Before the meeting, take some time to understand what […]
What Does Access to the Curriculum Mean?
When it comes to special ed terminology and acronyms, it is easy for families to get confused. While not all special ed terms seem like they could be confusing, some of the most common ones are. As special education professionals, it is up to us to make sure that parents and school staff understand exactly […]
Teachers: Hereโs What to Say When You Hold an IEP Meeting
Walking into any IEP meeting can feel very intimidating, but especially with your first few meetings, or when meeting with a new parent. You donโt know how to feel, how to act, or what to say. The Intentional IEP team has compiled a list of some of the things that are important for you to […]