Podcasts about Special education

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When schools respond to “behavior problems” in students, the focus is often on the symptom, not the cause. Failing to look beyond the surface behavior does a disservice to students, which is why in this episode I share commentary and a clip from my conversation with Dr. Shameka Stewart on the school-to-confinement pipeline. Dr. Shameka Stewart is an Associate Professor of Communication Sciences and Disorders and the Juvenile Forensic Speech-Language Pathologist(r). Dr. Stewart is also a special education advocate trained by the Wright's Law training center. Dr. Stewart's clinical and scholarly work specializes in Juvenile Forensics, Law Enforcement Interaction with youth with CD, child language disorders, and augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). Her primary research focuses on the Confluence and Impact of cognitive and communication disorders on the school-to-confinement pipeline, status offenses, involvement with the criminal justice system, law enforcement interaction, and criminal recidivism in youth placed at-risk for delinquency and crime (especially Black and Brown youth from under-resourced areas). Dr. Stewart is also a clinically certified and licensed speech-language pathologist and is licensed to practice in Maryland, Washington, D.C., and multiple other states. Through her work, Dr. Stewart has created cutting edge social justice and juvenile justice specialty courses for graduate CSD students, nationally known training programs for law enforcement and legal counsel, and national and international CE workshops and training for licensed SLP clinicians, students, and families of children with special needs.Discussion points from this episode include: ✅The relationship between reading challenges and the school-to-confinement pipeline.✅Why “behavior problems” could be related to language processing, reading, or writing challenges.✅“They should know better”: Why we can't assume kids comprehend language in the school discipline handbook. If you're working with students in K-12 of any age, this episode is a must-listen. You can listen to the original interview with Dr. Stewart on the De Facto Leaders podcast here: EP 180: The relationship of literacy and language skills and involvement with the justice system (with Dr. Shameka Stewart) Link here: https://drkarendudekbrannan.com/ep-180-the-relationship-of-literacy-and-language-skills-and-involvement-with-the-justice-system-with-dr-shameka-stewart/You can connect with Dr. Stewart on her website here: www.juvforensicslp.comConnect with her on Instagram @drjuvenile_forensicslp (link here: http://drjuvenile_forensicslp/)Join her Facebook group SLPs 4 Juvenile Justice here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1226771284165745/membersIn this episode, I mention Language Therapy Advance Foundations, my program that helps SLPs and other service providers create a system for language therapy. You can learn more about the program here: https://drkarenspeech.com/languagetherapy/ We're thrilled to be sponsored by IXL. IXL's comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more:Simplify and streamline technologySave teachers' timeReliably meet Tier 1 standardsImprove student performance on state assessments

The Trump administration has reportedly slashed jobs at a federal office responsible for overseeing special education. What might that mean here in Texas?A new school in Uvalde offers a place for learning apart from the building desecrated by a mass shooting – but remembrance is built into the design.The craft brewing bubble has burst. A […] The post What layoffs at special education office could mean for Texas schools appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

Welcome back to the Autism Little Learners Podcast! Today we're talking about a message that I'm deeply passionate about: there are no prerequisites to robust AAC. For far too long, people have believed that children need to prove they're “ready” before being given a robust AAC device. But that simply isn't true. AAC and autism go hand in hand, and every child deserves access to communication—whether they are speaking, nonspeaking, or minimally speaking. In this episode, I'll bust some common ©uld never be treated as a last resort—it's a lifeline for connection, autonomy, and confidence. ✅ 8 Takeaways: Robust AAC is for everyone—there are no prerequisites for access. AAC and autism are not separate; AAC gives autistic children a reliable voice. Waiting for readiness only delays communication and increases frustration. Robust AAC devices support language development, not just basic needs. Modeling AAC is key—input comes before output, just like with spoken language. Providing robust AAC does not stop speech; in fact, it can encourage it. Starting with full systems (instead of limited boards) builds long-term success. Giving access to robust AAC from the start respects children's autonomy and presumes competence.  

SUBSCRIBE TO JORDAN'S FREE NEWSLETTER. Get the facts, without the spin. UNBIASED offers a clear, impartial recap of US news, including politics, elections, legal news, and more. Hosted by lawyer Jordan Berman, each episode provides a recap of current political events plus breakdowns of complex concepts—like constitutional rights, recent Supreme Court rulings, and new legislation—in an easy-to-understand way. No personal opinions, just the facts you need to stay informed on the daily news that matters. If you miss how journalism used to be, you're in the right place. In today's episode: Court Says National Guard in Chicago Can Remain Federalized But Not Deployed (0:33) Trump Administration Issues Mass Layoffs Amid Shutdown; Are They Legal? How Will Special Education Be Affected? (6:30) Hegseth Announces New Qatari Air Force Facility in Idaho; Here's What You Need to Know (19:16) RFK Jr. Claims Possible Link Between Circumcision and Autism; Here's What the Studies Say (24:51) Israel and Gaza See Hostages Released and Prisoners Returned (30:49) United States and Argentina Finalize $20B Currency Swap (33:24) Quick Hitters: Trump Orders Military to Be Paid Despite Shutdown, Letitia James Indicted, South Carolina Shooting (36:22) GOOD NEWS (38:00) Critical Thinking Segment (38:59) SUBSCRIBE TO JORDAN'S FREE NEWSLETTER. Watch this episode on YouTube. Follow Jordan on Instagram and TikTok. All sources for this episode can be found here.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On Friday, the Trump administration fired most employees at the Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services. The Department of Education office is tasked with protecting the rights of millions of children with disabilities across the country and ensuring they get an education. Geoff Bennett discussed more with Laura Meckler, national education writer for The Washington Post. PBS News is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy

Today we're welcoming Dr. Rick Kubina, who is Director of Research at CentralReach as well as Professor of Special Education at The Pennsylvania State University. A trailblazer in precision teaching and the science behind human behavior, we talk about his journey from volunteering at a mental health asylum when he was 16 years old to becoming a pivotal figure in education. Dr. Kubina explains the balance between teaching and entrepreneurial ventures, sharing candid insights from his journey in integrating consulting within his academic career. Our discussion also explores the impact of AI in teaching, the ethical considerations behind it, and the importance of human interaction. In this episode, you'll learn about: Why Dr. Kubina is at the forefront of Precision Teaching and Behavior Science. How his education at Youngstown State University shaped his career. How PrecisionX (formerly known as Chartlytics) revolutionizes Precision Teaching and data analysis. Why balancing teaching and business ventures was pivotal for Dr. Kubina. How AI can transform data analysis and prediction in Precision Teaching. Why ethical considerations are crucial in integrating AI in education and healthcare. Why digital charting offers advantages over traditional paper charts in Precision Teaching. Why responsible AI usage is essential to prevent misuse in fields like ABA. How low code platforms enable non-technical users to create functional applications. Why the human element remains irreplaceable despite technological advancements in education. How systemic issues prevent the widespread adoption of Precision Teaching tools like the Standard Celeration Chart.   Dr. Kubina on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rickkubina CentralReach: https://www.centralreach.com Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/abaandptpodcast Join our The ABA and PT Podcast Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/397478901376425 The Standard Celeration Society Papers on Destandardization: https://celeration.org/charting-standards/  

Emily Kircher-Morris talks with writer Amy Mackin, author of Henry's Classroom: A Special Education in American Motherhood, about her experiences navigating the special education system for her son, Henry. They discuss the challenges of accessing appropriate resources, the impact of social isolation, and how community support can make a huge difference. They talk about Amy's transition from public school to homeschooling, and the benefits of a more holistic approach to education that broadens the support group to include family and even medical professionals. TAKEAWAYS Early intervention is extremely important in special education. Community support is instrumental in educational advocacy. Social isolation is impactful for families with special needs children. A holistic approach to education can be transformative. Communication between medical and educational systems can be extremely beneficial. There can be a big financial toll on families navigating special education. Homeschooling can be an alternative educational path for some. Student voices should be included in the IEP process. Educational resources vary greatly based on the socioeconomic status of each school district. For information about inviting Emily to your organization or school district, or having her speak at your conference or event, check out the website and get in touch! Amy Mackin is a writer whose work explores the intersections of education, cultural history, public health, and social equity. Her essays and articles have appeared in The Atlantic, Chalkbeat, The Washington Post, Literary Mama, Witness, The Shriver Report, and other publications. She holds an MA in American Studies from the University of Massachusetts and an MFA in Nonfiction Writing from Vermont College of Fine Arts. Her debut hybrid memoir, Henry's Classroom: A Special Education in American Motherhood, was released in May 2025. BACKGROUND READING Facebook, Facebook (author page), LinkedIn, Instagram The Neurodiversity Podcast is on Facebook, Instagram, BlueSky, and you're invited to join our Facebook Group.

Advocating is part of everyday life when you're raising a child on the autism spectrum — but it can also be exhausting. In this episode, Shannon shares how to manageyour energy so you can advocate effectively without burning out. Learn how to protect your peace, choose your battles wisely, and sustain your advocacy over the long haul.Shannon also recommends revisiting Episode 157, “Reframing Defeat; Your Child's Progressis Closer Than You Think,” for added insight and support.

In this insightful episode of Parenting on the Spectrum, Theresa sits down with Dr. Emily Levy, Founder and Director of EBL Coaching, to explore how sensory-based strategies can transform learning for children with dyslexia, ADHD, and other learning differences. Dr. Levy shares how understanding each child's unique sensory and cognitive profile can help build stronger foundations for reading, writing, and executive functioning—without frustration or shame.Together, they discuss practical ways parents and educators can create supportive, multi-sensory environments that empower children to learn in ways that feel natural, engaging, and confidence-building.✨ Join us as we reimagine education through a sensory lens—where every learner is understood and supported to thrive.About EmilyDr. Emily Levy is an education expert and the founder and director of EBL Coaching, a specialized tutoring program that offers individualized one-on-one home, virtual, and on-site instruction using research-based, multi-sensory techniques. She graduated from Brown University and received her Master's Degree in Special Education from Nova University in Florida. She also completed her Doctorate Degree in Education from Nova University. She performed a five-year research study developing an alternative strategy for teaching reading comprehension and won a fifth place Westinghouse Science and Talent Award for this research. Dr. Levy is also the author of Strategies for Study Success, a 22-part student workbook series that teaches students strategies for test taking, note taking, reading comprehension, writing, summarizing, and executive functioning, along with the Flags and Stars Orton Gillingham student workbook series, which helps students develop their fundamental decoding and spelling skills. Additionally, she is the author of Flags and Stars Multi-Sensory Math, a multi-sensory math program that helps students develop a stronger understanding of core math concepts, including addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, and fractions. These workbooks are currently used at schools nationwide.About TheresaA wife and a mother to two children and grandmother, Theresa Alexander Inman is a Parenting Coach, Board Certified Behavior Analyst, Infant Toddler Development Specialist, Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist. Introduced to behavior analysis in 2007 after years in the juvenile justice system.Her goal is to improve the lives of children and families by helping them strategize child development skills to prevent or reduce the effects of possible delays while having fun! She also served as a panelist on the first annual Autism World Summit.Theresa is also an author, having published ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠“Pathways to Early Communication”⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ in 2022. Find it at your favourite book seller.Connect with Theresa today!• Instagram | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Theresa Inman⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠• LinkedIn | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Theresa Inman⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠• BabyBoomer.org | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Theresa Inman⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠• YouTube | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Parenting with Confidence⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠• Tiktok | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.tiktok.com/@parentcoachtheresa• Spotify via Anchor.fm | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Parenting with Confidence ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website: https://www.theresaalexanderinman.com/About Parenting on the SpectrumRaising autistic children comes with unique joys, challenges, and learning moments. Join host Theresa as she explores the diverse experiences of parenting kids on the spectrum. Each episode features expert insights, real-life stories, and practical strategies to help you navigate this journey with understanding, compassion, and strength. Whether you're a parent, caregiver, or ally, this podcast is your go-to resource for fostering connection and celebrating neurodiversity. Please share, comment, rate, and download! Be blissful! Theresa

In this week's podcast episode, Ashley and former and beloved podcast co-host Martha revisit an important conversation for our NICU sisterhood: understanding IEPs and how to advocate for your child in school.This replay episode features special education expert Catherine Whitcher, founder of Master IEP Coach, who shares practical guidance on navigating the Individualized Education Program (IEP) process, partnering with your child's school, and finding hope and empowerment in every step.Catherine reminds us that while the paperwork and terminology can feel overwhelming, an IEP is not a label: it's a tool to help your child learn, grow, and thrive in the ways that fit them best. She also offers reassurance for the emotional side of this journey, especially for NICU families who have already walked through so many labels, diagnoses, and milestones.As you listen, we hope you feel encouraged, informed, and reminded that you are the expert on your child, and that you and your little one are always, always right on time.About Catherine Whitcher M.Ed and Master IEP CoachCatherine Whitcher, MEd, founder and CEO of Master IEP Coach®, experienced the struggles of the Special Education system both as a certified teacher and as a sister to a wonderful man with Down syndrome. For the past 25 years, she has been creating nationwide change in special education by assisting parents and teachers in developing IEPs that work in the real world. Catherine currently leads the largest independent organization nationwide of parents and teachers working together to build better special education outcomes for the real world. She's an expert in conflict resolution and leadership at the IEP table while always keeping the focus on preparing every child for further education, employment, and independent living.** This podcast episode is not an attempt to practice medicine or provide medical advice. All information, content, and material on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice, diagnosis or treatment.To get connected with DNM:Website | Private Facebook Group | InstagramSupport the show

“We don't need to work on decoding because students have access to assistive technology and accommodations.”“We don't work on word-decoding in high school.”“Working on reading in high school is too little too late.”If you've ever heard any of these arguments, you're not alone. Unfortunately, beliefs like these do students a huge disservice. That's why in this conversation, I share a clip from my interview with Tom Parton, an SLP with a long-career of experience in secondary education, as well as literacy advocacy work. Tom Parton is a private Speech Language Pathologist in Normal, Illinois. He retired after 35 years of public-school practice. Tom is President of Everyone Reading Illinois and is a member of ERI's Legislative Committee. Tom has presented on autism and language/literacy topics at local, state, and national conferences. Tom participated in the ISBE Reading Instruction Advisory Group and Teachers of Reading Certification task forces. He is currently a member of the ISBE Dyslexia Handbook revision team. He is past-president of the Illinois Speech-Language-Hearing Association and is ISHA Honors Committee co-chair and a member of ISHA's Leadership Development Committee. Tom is the 2024 chair of the American Speech Language Hearing Association Committee of Ambassadors.In my commentary and the clip from the interview, you'll hear discussion on:✅ Why providing access to technology alone won't solve access issues if kids lack adequate reading and spelling skills. ✅ Why accommodations and modifications aren't a substitute for reading instruction, even in secondary school. ✅ The impact of word-decoding on activities of daily living. If you're serving students in secondary school, you won't want to miss this episode. You can listen to the original interview with Tom on De Facto Leaders here: EP 178: Are we allowed to say “dyslexia” in the schools? (with Tom Parton) Link here: https://drkarendudekbrannan.com/ep-178-are-we-allowed-to-say-dyslexia-in-the-schools-with-tom-parton/In this episode, I mention Language Therapy Advance Foundations, my program that helps SLPs and other service providers create a system for language therapy. You can learn more about the program here: https://drkarenspeech.com/languagetherapy/ We're thrilled to be sponsored by IXL. IXL's comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more:Simplify and streamline technologySave teachers' timeReliably meet Tier 1 standardsImprove student performance on state assessments

Hey there, welcome back to Special Education for Beginners!We're continuing our October series on writing IEPs that are clear, meaningful, and connected. Last week, on Episode 280, we talked about the PLAAFP and how it serves as the blueprint of the IEP. This week, we're taking the very next step: turning the needs you identified in the Present Levels into strong, measurable goals.Too often, IEPs end up with unsupported goals — goals that don't connect back to the Present Levels. In this episode, I walk you through how to avoid that trap and create goals that are directly linked to the student's needs, supported by baseline data, and easy for the entire IEP team to understand.Here's what you'll learn in this episode: ✅ How to highlight needs in the Present Levels and make them your roadmap ✅ Why baselines matter (and why I never start a goal at 0%) ✅ How to write goals that are ambitious but realistic, specific but not overcomplicated ✅ The importance of sticking to one skill per goal ✅ Why you don't need a goal for every single need — and what to do instead ✅ Tips for using parent-friendly language so everyone on the team understandsWhen your goals are aligned, the whole IEP feels purposeful and connected.

Welcome back to the Autism Little Learners Podcast! Today we're diving into one of the most powerful strategies for supporting communication in young autistic children—modeling AAC. Just like children learn spoken language by hearing it all around them, AAC users need to see and hear their language modeled on their device or core board. In this episode, we'll talk about what modeling AAC is, why it matters, and how you can start using it in your daily routines—even if you don't have a high-tech device yet. We'll also bust some common myths, share practical tips for modeling without expectation, and explore how modeling goes far beyond just requesting—it's about helping kids express their feelings, build confidence, and connect with the people around them. So let's jump in and discover how you can make communication accessible, joyful, and empowering through the simple practice of modeling AAC. Takeaways: There are no prerequisites to robust AAC—all children deserve access to communication right now. Modeling AAC means pairing spoken words with symbols on a device or core board to show how language works. Modeling without expectation is key—input matters more than immediate output. Consistent modeling builds language growth, confidence, and autonomy for AAC users. Myths debunked: AAC doesn't stop speech, it doesn't confuse children, and you don't need to be a tech expert to model. Start small: choose one routine (like snack or play) and model 1–2 high-frequency core words. If you don't have a device yet, you can begin with core boards to give children access now. Remember, progress over perfection—every modeled word is a seed planted toward communication success. Links & Related Podcast Episodes:  Free core board: www.autismlittlelearners.com/visuals Episode #96: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-autism-little-learners-podcast/id1665404820?i=1000676636848 Episode #24: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-autism-little-learners-podcast/id1665404820?i=1000618489743  

Analysis on upcoming TSD Conference education, National Association for Pupil Transportation election results, the Federal Brake for Kids Act and the Federal Communications Commission revoking E-Rate eligibility of school bus Wi-Fi. Jeff Cassell, president of the School Bus Safety Company, discusses the need for safety leadership training, removing risk and reducing accidents in student transportation. Glenna Wright-Gallo, vice president of policy at neurotechnology software company Everway, has worked at the state government level and served as the assistant secretary for the U.S. Department of Education's Office of Special Education and Rehabilitation Services. At the TSD Conference this November, she brings her perspective as a person with a disability on educating and empowering individuals with disabilities. Read more about safety and special needs. Episode sponsors: Transfinder, School Bus Safety Co. & RIDE. 

#47 Supporting Every Skater (Pt. 2) How to use parents to help the player with Dr. Brady FlachsIn Episode 47, we continue exploring the connections between education and hockey with Dr. Brady Flachs, a Professor of Education at Ferris State University.Brady, a father of four hockey-playing boys, brings over 20 years of teaching experience to the conversation. Host Zack Nowak, a former Special Education teacher, joins him to bridge the gap between classroom strategies and coaching on the ice.Each episode, we'll tackle one key question, drawing from education research and teaching strategies to help coaches develop their teams more effectively.In this episode, we answer the question of How do we use parents as a tool to help the player?Join the discussion on X at USAHockeyCoach

In this episode, we sit down with author and thought leader Zuica Donev to explore her new book, Inside Job. Zuica shows us why the most impactful leadership starts within and how lasting change comes from the work of self-discovery, resilience, and purpose.Together, we unpack key themes from her book: quieting the noise, leading with authenticity, and building the inner strength to thrive in today's complex world. Through personal stories and practical wisdom, Zuica offers a clear roadmap for anyone ready to lead from the inside out. Tune in to see how doing the “inside job” can transform not only your leadership, but your life.---ABOUT OUR GUESTZuica Donev is an author, licensed therapist, and leadership coach dedicated to helping others unlock their potential and lead with authenticity. She began her career as a special education teacher, where she quickly discovered the untapped strengths within individuals and became driven by questions of human behavior, growth, and purpose. Her journey led her to roles as a behavior specialist, counselor, and Director of Special Education, each deepening her understanding of resilience and human potential.---SUBSCRIBE TO THE SERIES: ⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠YouTube Music⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠Overcast⁠⁠⁠FOLLOW US: ⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠POWERED BY CLASSLINK: ClassLink provides one-click single sign-on into web and Windows applications, and instant access to files at school and in the cloud. Accessible from any computer, tablet, or smartphone, ClassLink is ideal for 1to1 and Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) initiatives. Learn more at ⁠⁠⁠classlink.com⁠⁠⁠.

Chelsi Brosh, PhD & Melissa Cook - TouchMath - How Combining Multisensory Mathematics Instruction with AI-Powered Progress Monitoring Has Transformed Outcomes for Struggling Learners. This is episode 789 of Teaching Learning Leading K12, an audio podcast. Chelsi Brosh, PhD, BCBA-D, is Chief Academic Officer at TouchMath, leading efforts to make math accessible for students with learning challenges. Previously, she was VP of Product Innovation. She holds a PhD in Special Education from UNC Charlotte and has experience in behavior analysis and education for students with disabilities.  Melissa Cook is Chief Product Officer at TouchMath. She oversees the company's product strategy and development, leveraging her over 25 years of leadership experience to align innovative multisensory solutions with market needs. Before joining TouchMath, Melissa demonstrated her transformative leadership as President and Chief Operating Officer at Classworks. Our focus today is “How combining multisensory mathematics instruction with AI-powered progress monitoring has transformed outcomes for struggling learners.” Awesome conversation! So much to learn! Thanks for listening! Thanks for sharing! Before you go... You could help support this podcast by Buying Me A Coffee. Not really buying me something to drink but clicking on the link on my home page at https://stevenmiletto.com for Buy Me a Coffee or by going to this link Buy Me a Coffee. This would allow you to donate to help the show address the costs associated with producing the podcast from upgrading gear to the fees associated with producing the show. That would be cool. Thanks for thinking about it.  Hey, I've got another favor...could you share the podcast with one of your friends, colleagues, and family members? Hmmm? What do you think? Thank you! You are AWESOME! Connect & Learn More: https://touchmath.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/touchmath/ https://www.youtube.com/@TouchMath https://www.instagram.com/touchmath.official/ https://www.facebook.com/TouchMath/ Length - 27:44

By October, most of us as special educators have found our rhythm. The beginning-of-the-year chaos has calmed (at least a little!), routines are in place, and that's when IEP season really starts to pick up.This month on Special Education for Beginners, we're digging into how to make sure your IEPs are more than just compliant documents. They should be clear, meaningful, and connected — with every part of the plan tracing back to the Present Levels of Academic Achievement and Functional Performance (PLAAFP).In today's episode, I'm sharing why the Present Levels are the blueprint of the IEP, what four essential components must be included, and how to use them to guide your goals, services, and supports.What You'll Learn in This Episode:Why the PLAAFP is the foundation for the rest of the IEPThe four must-have components: strengths, needs, current performance, and impactPractical tips for writing strong Present Levels (nothing blank, no “no concerns,” everything dated, strengths woven throughout)Where to gather your data: observations, parent input, teacher input, student voice, informal and formal testing, and district assessmentsHow collaboration makes the PLAAFP stronger and more accurateResource Mentioned in This Episode:If you struggle to write the strengths and needs sections of your IEPs, I have a solution! I've created a resource that gives you example strength and need statements for every area of the PLAAFP. This tool will help you craft precise, parent-friendly Present Levels that guide the rest of your IEP.

AAC isn't just for non-verbal students. It's a powerful tool that supports communication for all students in special education classrooms. In this episode of Be The Exception, you'll learn: Why AAC matters for every student — not just those without verbal speech. Easy ways to start modeling core words every day. How to make AAC feel doable, not overwhelming. Plus, I'll share how our membership training, Say It Without Speaking, gives you practical, low-stress strategies and ready-to-use visuals to bring AAC into your daily routines.

On this special episode of the Restorative Works! Podcast, host Claire de Mézerville López welcomes three leaders transforming school culture in Worcester County, Maryland: Dr. Jenifer Rayne, Principal of Pocomoke High School; Carlton Cartwright, Community School Liaison and Restorative Practices Coach; and Lauren Williams, Coordinator of School Health and Mental Health. Together, they share a decade-long journey of embedding restorative practices into daily school life—creating spaces where trust, connection, and accountability thrive.  From early district-wide training sessions to the creation of “Restorative Practice Champions,” Worcester County Public Schools has built a living, evolving framework for fostering belonging. The team explains how conscious discipline, culturally responsive teaching, and adult-first self-regulation are equipping both educators and students with the skills to repair harm, navigate conflict, and sustain healthy relationships.  Jenifer Rayne is entering her eighth year as Principal of Pocomoke High School in Worcester County, Maryland. A dedicated and visionary educator, Dr. Rayne has led this small, diverse high school to national recognition, earning distinctions such as National School of Character, Gold School of Opportunity, and Apple Distinguished School under her leadership. Dr. Rayne holds a bachelor's degree in Elementary Education from Stevenson University, a K–12 Special Education certification from the College of Notre Dame of Maryland, a master's degree in School Administration from Wilmington University, and a Doctor of Education in Supervisory Leadership from the University of Maryland Eastern Shore.  Carlton Cartwright is a restorative leader and educator with over 26 years of experience supporting student success, access, and belonging on Maryland's Eastern Shore. In his current role he leads initiatives that embed restorative practices frameworks into daily practice and strengthen school-community partnerships. Having received training from the IIRP, Carlton facilitates professional learning and student support systems across Worcester County Public Schools. He believes transformation happens when we lead with rather than to others—building trust, connection, and shared responsibility. His leadership extends beyond the classroom through service in his church, mentoring, and community engagement.  Lauren Williams is a seasoned educational leader and licensed clinical social worker with over 15 years of experience advancing student mental health, family engagement, and restorative practices. As the Coordinator of School Health and Mental Health for Worcester County Public Schools, she leads district-wide initiatives that prioritize student well-being, inclusive leadership, and trauma-informed care. Her leadership philosophy is rooted in principle-centered values, collaboration, and the belief that lasting change happens with people, not to them. Currently pursuing her doctorate in Educational Leadership at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore, Lauren is a driving force behind restorative implementation, behavior reform, adult-first self-regulation practices, and community school transformation in Worcester County.  Tune in to hear practical strategies—like revising the district's code of conduct to reflect community-building values, integrating goals aligned with restorative practices into school improvement plans, and partnering with law enforcement for shared training.  

In this episode, I reflect on my conversation with my colleague Cassandra Williams as we discuss book and resource deserts, as well as how to engage with school communities. In the interview clip I share, Cassandra shares a story of how one of her colleagues found a surprising way to increase attendance at parent-teacher conferences when he took the time to ask members of the community what their needs were. Additionally, I share my commentary on how technology can both help and hinder literacy skills. Cassandra Williams is a true innovator in the education field, having dedicated over 25 years of her life to revolutionizing existing systems and setting new standards of excellence. With a degree in Elementary Education from Southern Illinois University and a Master's from California State University, she is also the founder of two successful elementary schools in Indianapolis. Her research has focused on coaching teachers to accelerate student achievement, often utilizing video and other technologies as learning tools. Her most recent passion is the Educational Innovation 360° (Link here: https://www.educationalinnovation360.com/) e-Instructional Coaching System, which she designed and developed in 2018.Topics covered in this episode: ✅ When parents aren't engaging, are you addressing the issue from a place of curiosity or judgement?✅ Is technology a solution when schools lack access to books or curriculum materials?✅ Using technology for professional development and training: Balancing efficiency with connection. You can connect with Cassandra on LinkedIn here (https://www.linkedin.com/in/cassandra-williams-777b7927/), on Twitter here (https://twitter.com/Edinnovation360), and on Facebook here (https://www.facebook.com/Educationalinnovation360/), on Instagram @educationalinnovation360 (https://www.instagram.com/educationalinnovation360/)You can learn more about her coaching and professional development for schools and individuals at Educationalinnovation360.com (https://www.educationalinnovation360.com/).You can listen to the original interview with Cassandra on the De Facto Leaders podcast here: EP 113: Making literacy accessible and equitable (with Cassandra Williams) Link here: https://drkarendudekbrannan.com/ep-113-making-literacy-accessible-and-equitable-with-cassandra-williams/You can listen to Cassandra's interview on SEEing to Lead with Dr. Chris Jones here where they discuss using video as a tool for teacher training and development: Educational Innovation 360 (Link here: https://stl.bepodcast.network/s3/24)In this episode, I mention the School of Clinical Leadership, my program for related service providers who want to take a leadership role in implementing executive functioning support. You can learn more about the program here: https://drkarendudekbrannan.com/efleadershipI also mentioned Language Therapy Advance Foundations, my program that helps SLPs and other service providers create a system for language therapy. You can learn more about the program here: https://drkarenspeech.com/languagetherapy/ We're thrilled to be sponsored by IXL. IXL's comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more:Simplify and streamline technologySave teachers' timeReliably meet Tier 1 standardsImprove student performance on state assessments

Today on the Autism Little Learners Podcast, I'm joined by Julia DeNey, founder of Sensational You—a brand dedicated to creating adaptive clothing for children with sensory differences. Julia's journey is such an inspiring one. She started in the world of fashion, but it was her time working in special education that opened her eyes to just how much sensory needs can impact a child's ability to learn and thrive. Sensory friendly clothes can make everyday life easier for autistic kids. In this episode, learn how adaptive clothing supports comfort, confidence, and learning. I can't wait for you to hear this conversation! Takeaways Julia's background in fashion led her to create Sensational You. Sensory needs can significantly impact children's learning. Adaptive clothing can help minimize sensory irritations. Real-life feedback from families is crucial for product development. The importance of understanding dysregulation in children. Innovative designs include built-in sensory tools. Community support has been vital for Sensational You's growth. The future vision includes a wider range of sensory-friendly products. Adaptive fashion should be accessible in mainstream stores. Sensory-friendly solutions are becoming more recognized in society. Bio & Links Julia DeNey studied Fashion Design at Cornell University and later worked as a special-education paraprofessional with autistic students. Combining her design expertise with her classroom experience, she founded Sense-ational You, an adaptive clothing brand that supports individuals with autism, ADHD, and sensory sensitivities. https://shopsenseationalyou.com/ https://shopsenseationalyou.com/pages/back-to-school-sensory-checklist https://www.instagram.com/senseational_you/ https://www.tiktok.com/@senseational_you Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Sensational You 02:52 The Journey from Fashion to Sensory Solutions 05:49 Understanding Sensory Needs in Education 08:40 Innovative Adaptive Clothing Designs 11:31 Real-Life Impact of Sensory Clothing 14:15 Feedback and Community Support 17:19 Future Vision for Sensational You 20:15 Conclusion and Resources You may also be interested in these supports: Visual Support Starter Set: www.autismlittlelearners.com/visuals Visual Supports Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/3922278281209994/ Autism Little Learners on Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/autismlittlelearners Autism Little Learners on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/autismlittlelearners/ If you're enjoying the Autism Little Learners Podcast, I'd love for you to leave a rating and review—it helps more educators and parents find these conversations and join our community.  

How to get an IEP evaluation? IEP Coach Tonya Wollum breaks down the special education eligibility process, your rights under the IDEA law, and the critical step to request services in writing. Download the free letter template!

This conversation examines the crucial importance of math fact fluency in education, exploring effective teaching strategies, the role of parents, and the challenges faced by educators. The panel shares success stories from their classrooms, emphasizing the importance of consistent practice and engagement in fostering student success in mathematics. They also address misconceptions about math instruction and the significance of building foundational skills for future learning. Brian Poncy Facts on Fire | math fact fluency| Podcast Follow on Twitter: @brian_poncy @rastokke @StamStam193 @jonHarper70bd @bamradionetwork @jonHarper70bd @bamradionetwork Kristin Ryan is a first-grade teacher in a rural, K-4 school in Wyoming. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in K-8 Elementary Education and K-12 Special Education, as well as a Master of Arts degree in Elementary Education with a focus on K-12 Reading Specialist, all from the University of South Dakota. She also holds a Principal Certificate from the University of Wyoming. She has worked in education for the past 16 years. Dr. Brian Poncy is a Professor of School Psychology at Oklahoma State University. His research focuses on academic interventions and behavioral principles of learning, specifically in the area of mathematics. Dr. Poncy created the Measures & Interventions for Numeracy Development (M.I.N.D.), a set of free materials to support teachers in the assessment and implementation of empirically-validated interventions to increase early numeracy and computation skills (www.factsonfire.com). Laura Stam is a 3rd-grade teacher in Thermopolis, Wyoming. She is a 2024-2025 Goyen Fellow and a founding board member of The Reading League Wyoming. Dr. Anna Stokke is a Professor in the Department of Mathematics and Statistics at the University of Winnipeg.. She is co-founder and President of the non-profit organization Archimedes Math Schools, which delivers after-school math classes for children. She hosts the popular math education podcast Chalk & Talk, where she discusses evidence-informed math teaching with leading education experts.

This week on The Resistance, I had the absolute honor of sitting down with Michelle Pianim aka the Olivia Pope of Special Education. We went deep on what it really means to fix broken school systems while empowering parents to reclaim their agency in the special education process. If you've ever wrestled with the tension between holding schools accountable and supporting families, this episode is for you.Connect with Michelle:Fairgreen Consulting: Michelle's consulting firm supporting schools and families in navigating special education: Website: fairgreenconsulting.comEmail: info@fairgreenconsulting.comIG: https://www.instagram.com/withmichellegail/Ways to Keep Learning w/ Me: Liberation Leaflet Monthly Newsletter: https://black-on-black-ed.kit.com/b60f6a97d9Liberation Library (our educator community): https://black-on-black-ed.kit.com/products/liberationlibrarycommunity

LEXINGTON, Ky. (September 25, 2025) – The University of Kentucky Alumni Association started the Great Teacher Award program in 1961 to honor excellent teaching at the university. There have been more than 300 teachers honored since that first year. Nominations may only be submitted by current students. To receive the award, a candidate must: Hold the rank of full-time lecturer or above and have been a member of the faculty for the past three years at UK. Have superior knowledge of the subject matter. Have original and innovative classroom presentations. Demonstrate concern for students, both inside and outside the classroom setting. Not have been a recipient of the award for the past 10 years.  A committee of the UK Alumni Association Board of Directors and a representative from the student organization Omicron Delta Kappa select the recipients based on objective rating and ranking of the eligible nominations submitted. This episode of Behind the Blue spotlights one of the six Great Teacher Award winners for 2025: Channon Horn, a clinical associate professor in the Department of Early Childhood, Special Education and Counselor Education in UK's College of Education. Horn's professional career has focused on advocating appropriate educational opportunities for students with disabilities. She has experience in the field of special education as it relates to those with moderate to severe disabilities and those with learning and behavioral disorders. Horn's research interests include strategies to actively engage all learners in inclusive environments, the use of evidence based instructional strategies and the implementation of technology to positively impact learners with exceptionalities. She has served as a coach with the Special Olympics of the Bluegrass. ‘Behind the Blue' is available via a variety of podcast providers, including iTunes and Spotify. Become a subscriber to receive new episodes of “Behind the Blue” each week. UK's latest medical breakthroughs, research, artists and writers will be featured, along with the most important news impacting the university. 'Behind the Blue' is a joint production of the University of Kentucky and UK HealthCare. Transcripts for this or other episodes of Behind the Blue can be downloaded from the show's blog page.   To discover how the University of Kentucky is advancing our Commonwealth, click here.

Ever feel overwhelmed being the only SLP in your district without a network of fellow clinicians for support? You're not alone; many in similar situations face these challenges.In this episode, I'm sharing a case study of an SLP who, despite being the sole clinician in her district, felt the pressure of not having a trusted system she could rely on for language therapy. Searching for a structured, effective approach, she turned to the Language Therapy Advance Foundations program. There, she developed a reliable system she could bring to her team, transforming her therapy sessions and instilling confidence in her practice.I also reflect on ways you can gain a sense of belonging, even if you're the only one in your discipline.In this episode, I'll share:✅ Managing the challenges and isolation of being the only SLP in a district while building a trustworthy framework for therapy.✅ Developing a system that empowers you to handle your caseload with confidence, even without peer support.✅ Creating a dependable, efficient approach to language therapy that benefits both the clinician's peace of mind and the students' progress.Join us as we explore how this solo SLP navigated her unique situation and emerged with a structured system she could trust and share with her team.In this episode, I mentioned this previous podcast interview: EP 109: Can my principal evaluate me if they've never done my job? (with Eric Makelky) here: https://drkarendudekbrannan.com/ep-109-can-my-principal-evaluate-me-if-theyve-never-done-my-job-with-eric-makelky/This case study came from a member of Language Therapy Advance Foundations, my program that gives SLPs and other service providers create a system for language therapy. You can learn more about the program here: https://drkarenspeech.com/languagetherapy/ We're thrilled to be sponsored by IXL. IXL's comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more:Simplify and streamline technologySave teachers' timeReliably meet Tier 1 standardsImprove student performance on state assessments

This month on the Special Education for Beginners podcast, we've been focused on behavior—what causes it, how to prevent escalation, and how to respond when it happens. But today, we're flipping the script and talking about what it looks like when things are going well.In this episode, I'm joined by Marga Grey, a pediatric occupational therapist and founder of CoordiKids, to discuss what true self-regulation looks like in the classroom and how educators can support it through movement, sensory-friendly strategies, and brain-based practices.If you've ever wondered:"Is wobble seating really effective?""What does regulation actually look like?""How can I build a classroom that supports ALL students—especially those with sensory needs?"Then this episode is for you!

Jeannie Fulbright and Shiela Catanzarite discuss the benefits and the beauty of a Charlotte Mason education, sharing experiences from the years of educating their own children using Charlotte Mason's model. You'll hear how it brought beauty to their homeschool days and how it prepared their children for college and career. You'll see how employing the Charlotte Mason method equips children for success in the real world. Jeannie and Shiela share the importance of deprogramming from the standardized system of education that is failing our children. By employing the methods Charlotte Mason taught, methods that research confirms effective, you will provide for your children a peaceful, joyful, quiet growing time that honors their uniqueness and gives room for them to discover their gifts and talents. The simplicity of using the Charlotte Mason model enables children to become strong thinkers, writers, communicators, and leaders in their generation. About Shiela Shiela Catanzarite is an author, speaker, editor, and communication coach. She's a 20-year Charlotte Mason veteran homeschooler and has worked as Jeannie Fulbright's editor and designer for 20 years helping develop Jeannie's award-winning Apologia science curriculum and most recently her Charlotte Mason products published through Jeannie Fulbright Press. Shiela is the author of the newly published Living Verse Language Arts in Poetry and is finishing up her second book in the series Living Verse Language Arts in Scripture, to be released spring 2024. Earning a bachelor's degree in Special Education and a master's degree in Christian Education from Dallas Theological Seminary, Shiela has been teaching language arts in some capacity for 40+ years. Her passion remains helping students understand the elements of language and how to use these elements artfully to communicate effectively. Shiela is currently a language communication coach, working one-on-one with students who have language learning and communication challenges. She also writes curriculum for her private middle and high school English language communication classes that focus on writing and speaking. Both of Shiela's and her husband Bruce's daughters attended private universities on scholarship and went on to pursue graduate studies in medicine and global business. She attributes their love for learning and academic achievement to homeschooling with Charlotte Mason's philosophy and methodology. About Jeannie Jeannie Fulbright, a 24-year veteran homeschooler, is the author of the #1 best-selling, multi award-winning Apologia Young Explorer science series: Exploring Creation with Astronomy, Chemistry and Physics, Botany, Zoology, and Anatomy & Physiology. She is also the author of the action-packed historical time travel book series Rumble Tumbles Through Time, as well as preschool science books and activity kits, the Charlotte Mason Heirloom Planner, and many high-quality Charlotte Mason based products. Jeannie and her husband Jeff became empty nesters in 2019. All four of their children all went to the University of Georgia on scholarship (homeschooling works!). For more than 20 years Jeannie has traveled around the country speaking to homeschoolers at conventions, covering a plethora of topics from Charlotte Mason to marriage and prayer.  Connect Jeannie Fulbright | Website | Instagram | Facebook | Facebook Group | TikTok | Pinterest Shiela Catanzarite | Website | Instagram | Instagram Homeschooling.mom | Instagram | Website Have you joined us at one of the Great Homeschool Conventions?  We hope to see you there! For more encouragement on your homeschooling journey, visit the Homeschooling.mom site. View full show notes on the blog.

Ever feel like you're teaching on autopilot because you've been working on the same IEP goal for months? Here's the truth: data — not instinct — should guide your next move. In this episode of Be The Exception in Special Education, I'm sharing what it really means to be data-driven, how to track and use academic, behavior, and functional skill data, and when it's time to adjust IEP goals. I'll also walk you through real classroom examples and show you how built-in progress monitoring sheets (included in my academic bundles) can simplify the process so you spend less time on paperwork and more time on meaningful instruction. What You'll Learn in This Episode: What “data-driven” means in special education beyond compliance How to collect and interpret academic, behavior, and functional skills data Practical examples of data tracking you can use right away When and how to adjust IEP goals for student success Simple tools to make data collection seamless during instruction   Links and Resources Science Units for Self-Contained Special Ed Social Studies Units for Self-Contained Special Ed   Connect with Dawn   Find me on IG Find me on Tik Tok Etsy Shop TpT Store The Exceptional Collective Subscribe Are you subscribed to my podcast? Trust me, you definitely want to do that so you don't miss a thing! Click here to subscribe in iTunes! Leave a Review If you are loving the podcast, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other teachers find my podcast and I love hearing what you think about the podcast as well. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what part of the podcast you found to be the most helpful!

Ever feel like you should have language therapy figured out by now, but you're still struggling? Even experienced clinicians can feel that way.In this episode, I'm sharing a case study of a seasoned SLP who, despite years of experience, felt like she was missing a key piece of the puzzle when it came to language therapy. Battling decision fatigue and a lack of a reliable system, she joined my Language Therapy Advance Foundations program and created a reliable system that made her feel confident showing up to sessions.In this episode, we'll discuss:✅ Overcoming the feeling of inadequacy as a veteran clinician and acknowledging the need for a more structured approach to language therapy.✅ How streamlining decision-making allowed for more focused therapy sessions. ✅ Strategies for working on language skills that support executive functioning. ✅ Creating a predictable, efficient system for building language skills that support reading and writing. This case study came from a member of Language Therapy Advance Foundations, my program that gives SLPs and other service providers create a system for language therapy. You can learn more about the program here: https://drkarenspeech.com/languagetherapy/ We're thrilled to be sponsored by IXL. IXL's comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more:Simplify and streamline technologySave teachers' timeReliably meet Tier 1 standardsImprove student performance on state assessments

Dr. Paul Morgan is a researcher investigating disparities in disability identification and treatment during childhood. His research has found that students of color are likely to be under-identified for special education services despite a prevailing narrative that over-identification is always the issue. Dr. Morgan discusses the methodology of his studies, the importance of investigating a fuller set of explanatory factors for reading difficulties, and why strong claims about special education being a wholly negative "dumping ground" are not supported by the evidence. Dr. Morgan also discusses why there has been resistance to accepting the data, and shares findings from his latest study on the prevalence of reading difficulties. 

By popular demand, we're bringing back one of the most impactful episodes! This conversation dives into the powerful link between stress and behavior in autistic children, and why compassionate, neurodiversity-affirming approaches make all the difference. You'll discover how to reframe behavior as communication, support self-advocacy, and create environments that reduce stress and meet the unique needs of autistic children. Whether you're an educator, therapist, or parent, this episode offers practical tools you can use right away. Key Takeaways: Stress and behavior are closely linked for autistic children. Environments that increase stress can make behaviors harder. Behavior is communication—understanding it is essential. Compassionate approaches focus on unmet needs, not compliance. Compliance-driven methods can harm emotional well-being. Self-advocacy is critical for safety and empowerment. Protests and refusals are valid forms of communication. Predictable routines can ease anxiety. Co-regulation helps children manage emotions. Communication tools empower autistic children to thrive. Resources & Links: Research article #1: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6061115/ Research article #2: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3245359/ Calming Kit for preschoolers: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Calm-Down-Kit-For-Calming-Corner-In-Special-Education-8140160 You may also be interested in these supports: Visual Support Starter Set  Visual Supports Facebook Group Autism Little Learners on Instagram Autism Little Learners on Facebook  

“We're failing our kids.” That's a quote from a Fruitland mom who says her daughter and other kids who need special education are falling through the cracks in Idaho.

Stay informed on the latest special education news. Host Tonya Wollum discusses a proposed IDEA funding overhaul, new data on state compliance, and a huge Supreme Court win for students with disabilities. Learn what this means for your child's IEP.

If it's not generalizing, it's not functional. In this episode, we break down what true mastery looks like, how to plan for maintenance from the start, and practical ways to “teach loosely” so skills stick across people, places, and materials.

What if choosing between language and executive functioning for your students wasn't an "either/or" decision? And how can we effectively balance academic content with broader cognitive skills? It's a complex challenge, and the answer isn't always obvious.In this episode, I share commentary and a clip of my conversation with Jill Fahy, where we discuss the impact of executive functioning skills on the college experience. Jill is a licensed speech-language pathologist and professor in the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders at Eastern Illinois University. She is also the co-director of the Autism Center and Director of the Students with Autism Transitional Education Program, where she develops and delivers transitional programming in social skills and executive functions for college students. In this episode, you'll discover:✅ Should we work on language or executive functioning first? The answer isn't straightforward.✅ Balancing academic content areas and broader cognitive skills: Why both parents and professionals need to learn about executive functioning as it relates to their context. ✅ Educating the public on cognition and evidence-based practices, and why it's so easy for vulnerable individuals to grasp on to pseudoscience. ✅ How to use “asset stacking” to address the need to work on multiple interconnected areas at once (e.g., content area skills, language, cognition).You can connect with Jill via email at jkfahy@eiu.edu. You can read her article, Assessment of Executive Functions in School-Aged Children: Challenges and Solutions for the SLP from ASHA Perspectives here: https://pubs.asha.org/doi/10.1044/sbi15.4.151You can learn more about the Students Transitional Education Program at Eastern Illinois University here: https://www.eiu.edu/step/ and the Autism Center here: https://www.eiu.edu/autismcenter/In this episode, I mention the School of Clinical Leadership, my program for related service providers who want to take a leadership role in implementing executive functioning support. You can learn more about the program here: https://drkarendudekbrannan.com/efleadership We're thrilled to be sponsored by IXL. IXL's comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more:Simplify and streamline technologySave teachers' timeReliably meet Tier 1 standardsImprove student performance on state assessments

Hi friends, welcome back to the Autism Little Learners Podcast. I'm Tara, a speech-language pathologist who has spent over 25 years working with young autistic children and their families. Today, we're going to talk about a topic that brings up a lot of feelings for educators, therapists, and parents: the Picture Exchange Communication System, or PECS. Specifically, why PECS isn't enough for preschoolers. Now, before I dive in, I want to be clear—PECS is not evil. It's not “bad.” For many kids, it has opened the door to communication, and that's something to celebrate. But PECS, on its own, isn't enough. Our preschoolers need more than compliance-based exchanges to build rich, lifelong communication. Takeaways PECS was created in the 1990s to teach kids to request items using pictures. Traditional PECS training often emphasized compliance over authentic communication. Rigid use of PECS protocols sometimes caused frustration and meltdowns in children. PECS has major limitations, including prompt dependency and a narrow focus on requests. Research shows PECS helps with requesting, but not broader communication or social connection. Evidence-based practice must balance research, clinical experience, and client perspectives. Autistic adults report that PECS can restrict autonomy, dignity, and language development. PECS can be a stepping stone, but should not be the final communication system. Robust AAC systems provide greater vocabulary, flexibility, and authentic language use. Communication should always prioritize connection, not compliance. Resources & Links: Jordyn Zimmerman's Article:  https://communicationfirst.org/slps-as-aac-gatekeepers/ Julie Roberts Article: https://therapistndc.org/the-problem-with-pecs/ Research Article: https://pure.psu.edu/en/publications/a-review-and-analysis-of-the-picture-exchange-communication-syste You may also be interested in these supports: Visual Support Starter Set  Visual Supports Facebook Group Autism Little Learners on Instagram Autism Little Learners on Facebook

#46 Supporting Every Skater (Pt. 3): How do we help kids with following directions? with Dr. Brady FlachsIn Episode 46, we continue exploring the connections between education and hockey with Dr. Brady Flachs, a Professor of Education at Ferris State University.Brady, a father of four hockey-playing boys, brings over 20 years of teaching experience to the conversation. Host Zack Nowak, a former Special Education teacher, joins him to bridge the gap between classroom strategies and coaching on the ice.Each episode, we'll tackle one key question, drawing from education research and teaching strategies to help coaches develop their teams more effectively.In this episode, we answer the question of 'How do we help kids with following directions?'Join the discussion on X at USAHockeyCoach

The business of education is rapidly evolving — from homeschooling and private schools to special education programs and investor interest. But how does it all fit together, and where are the biggest opportunities and challenges ahead?In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by John McLaughlin, Ph.D., Managing Partner at McLaughlin Advisors. John is a lifelong educator, entrepreneur, and advisor who has helped school owners and special education providers prepare for — and profit from — successful exits.In this episode, you will learn:Why fewer people are choosing teaching careers today, and how that shift impacts education.How public, private, charter, and homeschooling fit into the U.S. education system — and who pays for what.The role of private investors and private equity in the future of education.How vouchers and federal law shape funding for special education and private schools.What school owners need to know about acquisitions and planning for a successful exit.And more!Tune in to hear how education, entrepreneurship, and investment opportunities intersect — and what the future of schooling may look like.Resources: Episode Transcript & Blog | McLaughlinAdvisors.com | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

It's tough to keep up with all the changes going on at the Federal level or understand how that might impact people with Down syndrome in our local areas.  We were joined on the podcast by two experts in education policy from the National Down Syndrome Congress (NDSC).  Stephanie Smith Lee is the Policy & Advocacy Co-Director for the NDSC and Ricki Sabia is the Senior Education Policy Advisor for the NDSC.  On the podcast, we'll discuss the history and current state of the IDEA as well as discuss how the federal changes may impact our loved ones with Down syndrome.  This is Part 1 of a two part series looking at Policy and Advocacy at the Federal level. For more information: National Down Syndrome Congress (https://www.ndsccenter.org) Information and application for NDSC's  National Down Syndrome Advocacy Coalition https://ndsccenter.org/policy/national-down-syndrome-advocacy-coalition-ndac/about-ndac.html  Why Protecting IDEA and the U.S. Department of Ed is Essential for Students with Disabilities https://ndsccenter.org/file_download/c0680d5a-fbe5-4b87-806b-93f110b3c320 Action Alert about dismantling the U.S. Department of Ed https://www.votervoice.net/mobile/NDSCCenter/Campaigns/123043/Respond Letter signed by education officials from past Administrations asking Congress Not to Close the Department of Ed, Move Office of Special Education programs, or Block Grant IDEA https://ndsccenter.org/letter-to-congress/      If you would like to suggest a topic for us to cover on the podcast, please send an e-mail to DownSyndromeCenter@chp.edu. If you would like to partner with the Down Syndrome Center, including this podcast, please visit https://givetochildrens.org/downsyndromecenter. We are thankful for the generous donation from Caring for Kids – The Carrie Martin Fund that provides the funding for the podcast recording equipment and hosting costs for this podcast.

This episode is like no other.  In this episode of Talking Smack 415, Jamie the great and I sit down with Dawn Geller.  Dawn recently experienced every mother's worst nightmare, the sudden tragic death of her 20 year old son Dylan. This interview is raw, the pain cuts through your soul, and Dawn is beyond courageous to share her story.  We retrace the phone calls and the experience the day of Dylan's deathWe dive into grief and grief counseling We talk about the funeral and being supported by a village And we remember Dylan - the light he was in the world, how he lived with compassion, resilience, a deep commitment to helping others, and he always rooted for the underdog. He leaves behind his legacy and  continues to sprinkle his fairy dust ( as Jamie the Great says) through the Do it Like Dylan Non Profit .Do It Like Dylan was established by the siblings of Dylan Geller to honor his memory. Their mission is to advance Epilepsy research, provide scholarships for students pursuing degrees in Special Education, and advocate for critical Epilepsy safety legislation. Through these efforts, the family strives to continue Dylan's legacy of kindness, inclusion, and lasting impact.You can donate here or volunteer here . In addition through Dylan's organ donations he saved 150 lives that night. If you happen to be one of the lucky recipients of Dylan's organs please reach out.  The family would love to meet you.    It's a heartbreaking and uplifting episode, grab your tissues .May his memory be a blessing. זיכרונם לברכה / zikhronam livrakhaIf you or anyone you know has epilepsy please share this episode and make sure they are wearing a Level 1 Life Jacket in the water- it's life saving and will turn most unconscious wearers face-up in water. It's not epilepsy that kills you it's what you're doing when epilepsy strikes that kills you. Learn more about Do it Like Dylan on facebook & InstagramPS- SAVE THE DATE - The Do It Like Dylan 5k run/ family walk is Saturday, November 15th.  Location information to come.  Share this episode with your friends and family who love to laugh. Subscribe to Talking Smack 415 and leave us a rating and review so more peeps can find us for laughter and friendship to feed your soul!

Progress monitoring is one of those things in special education that can either be your best friend or your biggest headache. I've lived both extremes. In this episode of Be The Exception in Special Education, I'm sharing: Why progress monitoring is more than a compliance task. The top mistakes I've made (and how you can skip them). My favorite tools that actually make data collection doable. You'll hear about my hybrid system that blends the speed of paper with the power of digital, plus real strategies you can start this week to make your data work for you. If progress monitoring has ever made you feel overwhelmed, this episode will help you cut through the chaos and create a system you can actually stick with. Links and Resources Progress Monitoring Templates Exceptional Data Simplified Course   Connect with Dawn   Find me on IG Find me on Tik Tok Etsy Shop TpT Store The Exceptional Collective Subscribe Are you subscribed to my podcast? Trust me, you definitely want to do that so you don't miss a thing! Click here to subscribe in iTunes! Leave a Review If you are loving the podcast, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other teachers find my podcast and I love hearing what you think about the podcast as well. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what part of the podcast you found to be the most helpful!

Philip Lindsay isn't just a Special Education math teacher—he's a Gen Alpha translator, content creator, and a powerful force in connecting with students who learn differently. In this episode of Successful with ADHD, I sit down with Philip to explore his late ADHD diagnosis, his journey from youth pastor to teacher, and how he uses humor, “brain rot” (yes, that's a real thing!), and intentional connection to empower kids with learning differences.We dive into how ADHD fuels his content creation, why relational investment is essential in education, and how his approach breaks long-standing stereotypes in the classroom. Philip shares stories that are both hilarious and deeply relatable—especially for educators and parents raising or working with neurodivergent kids. You'll laugh, reflect, and maybe even find yourself googling Gen Alpha slang after this one!Philip Lindsay is a Special Ed math teacher whose mission is simple: be helpful. Best known for decoding Gen Alpha slang, going viral on The Today Show, and creating content that bridges students, parents, and teachers—Philip's mix of humor, heart, and practical insight resonates deeply with all who work with or raise the next generation. Episode Highlights: [1:06] - Meet Philip Lindsay: Special Ed teacher, Gen Alpha translator, and all-around hilarious human [3:00] - Getting diagnosed with ADHD at 27—and why it was such a relief [5:06] - Juggling marriage, fatherhood, and a youth pastor role during COVID [7:06] - The game-changing power of self-awareness and honest communication in relationships [10:00] - Redefining productivity: Embracing ADHD brain rhythms and ditching typical schedules [14:33] - Why having a clear “why” makes ADHD a content creation superpower [16:56] - Using humor to bridge the gap between teachers, students, and parents [26:00] - Trashketball, trust, and transformative teaching strategies [30:00] - Debunking the “fun teacher vs. serious teacher” myth [33:45] - Breaking down Gen Alpha slang: from “gyat” to “skibidi” and everything in between [36:08] - Brain rot explained: How memes and math mix in middle school [40:51] - Teaching boundaries: When slang shows up in student writing [43:03] - Hawk Tuah and other brain rot creations (you won't believe this one!) [46:36] - Are generations getting better or worse? Philip shares his take [48:47] - Final wisdom for parents and educators: Connection over correctionConnect with Philip Lindsay:Instagram: @mr_phlindsay_spedTikTok: @mr_lindsay_spedFacebook: Philip LindsayYouTube: Mr. LindsayThank you for tuning into "SuccessFULL with ADHD." If this episode has impacted you, remember to rate, follow, share, and revi

I've got a short and sweet episode for you today!  I'll be sharing 3 tips for introducing a morning meeting or circle time to young autistic children in a self-contained preschool classroom.  If you are an educator working in that setting, you don't want to miss this episode! Topics Discussed: Preparing and getting organized before starting a circle time for young autistic children in a special education preschool classroom Using visual supports, such as a visual mini-schedule, and all done bucket during group time Using songs to signal the end of group time Links Mentioned In This Episode About Visual Supports: Visual Supports Starter Set Blog Posts Related To “Routines” What My Preschool Autism Classroom Looked Like Save your seat at my upcoming Circle Time Masterclass here. Other Links You May Be Interested In: Autism Little Learners on Instagram Autism Little Learners on Facebook You can also join my free Visual Supports Facebook Group to “hang out” with like-minded educators and parents who want to take action and implement visuals at home or at school.

Welcome back to Special Education for Beginners! September is such a critical month for teachers. It's the time when routines are still being built and the habits you create now will either set you up for a calm, structured classroom or leave you constantly putting out “fires” all year long.In this episode, we're talking about prevention...how to stop behaviors before they start. Of course, we know there's no way to erase every single behavior, but wouldn't it be nice to reduce the frequency, intensity, and unpredictability of those behaviors with just a few proactive systems?I'll walk you through 7 practical strategies that special educators can start using right away to create smoother routines, reduce disruptions, and build a more positive, predictable environment for students. These strategies include:Setting clear, explicit expectations (and teaching them like academics)Using predictable routines to create a sense of safety and structureBuilding relationships before enforcing rulesOffering simple, meaningful choices to give students ownershipIncorporating movement, sensory, and even snack breaks before problems escalateReinforcing the positive behaviors you want to see more ofAligning the adults so every staff member responds consistentlyYou'll come away with concrete examples, classroom tips, and easy-to-implement strategies that make behavior management feel less reactive and more intentional.

This week, the BAND is back together and they're joined by friend and fellow comedian Mike Vecchione. The guys debate the difference between Cracker Barrel and Waffle House, Nate introduces us to the newest member of the family, and Mike shares stories from his previous career as a Special Education teacher. Rocket Money- Rocketmoney.com/nate Cancel your unwanted subscriptions and reach your financial goals faster with Rocket Money. Go to RocketMoney.com/NATE today! Aura Frames: AuraFrames.com Exclusive $35-off Carver Mat at AuraFrames.com. Promo Code NATE.  Pestie: https://pestie.com/nate For 10% off your order, go to https://pestie.com/nate This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp- BetterHelp.com/Nate As the largest therapy provider in the world, BetterHelp can provide access to mental health professionals with a diverse variety of expertise. Our listeners get 10% off their first month at BetterHelp.com/Nate  #ad