Be The Exception In Special Education

Latest Episodes:

273.Setting Up Your Special Ed Classroom: Start with the Basics Jul 17, 2025

Show notes

Welcome back to Be the Exception in Special Education! I'm your host, Dawn Ellis, and today we're jumping into one of the most exciting (and sometimes overwhelming) parts of back-to-school season—classroom setup!

Whether you're a veteran teacher or fresh on the scene, this episode is packed with tips to help you set up a functional, organized, and stress-free special education classroom that works for you and your students.

Here's what you'll hear in today's episode:

💡 Why classroom setup is more than just cute décor—it's about functionality, structure, and student success
📚 How to set up clear learning zones (think reading corners, sensory spaces, and group work areas!)
🧺 Why labeled bins and accessibility are game changers for independence
🗂 How to organize your IEPs, service logs, and all the paperwork without losing your mind
🔧 My go-to classroom tools and resources that will actually save you time

PLUS: I'll introduce you to my Special Education Case Manager Bundle and Back-to-School Bundle—two resources designed to streamline your systems so you can focus on what matters most: your students. 🙌

🎁 BONUS: I'll also share how to make your classroom more functional so your students can grab what they need without constantly asking for help (you know what I mean!).

Links and Resources

Connect with Dawn

The Exceptional Collective

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!

272. Start Smart: How to Tackle Beginning-of-Year Anxiety and Get Ready for Success Jul 10, 2025

Show notes

Ready or not, the new school year is just around the corner—and if your to-do list is already giving you anxiety, you're in the right place! In this episode of Be the Exception in Special Education, we're tackling that all-too-familiar beginning-of-year stress head-on.

Whether you're staring down a fresh IEP caseload, knee-deep in classroom setup, or just wondering how you're supposed to do everything and still enjoy your summer—breathe easy. I've got a plan for you. 💡

Here's what you'll learn today:

🎢 Why beginning-of-year anxiety is so real (and how to manage it!)
✅ The difference between anxiety and actual readiness
📋 How small, strategic planning steps can bring major relief
🧠 The mindset shifts that keep burnout at bay
🛠️ Tips for IEP caseload management, classroom zones, and realistic goal setting
🚀 A sneak peek into Start Smart Week + the Launchpad Challenge — your no-stress plan to prep for the year (without giving up your summer joy)

🎁 BONUS: I'm sharing FREE templates, tips, and short videos to help you organize, prioritize, and actually feel ready to start the year strong.

So grab a cold drink, put your feet up, and tune in—because you deserve a smooth (and sane) start to the school year.

👉 Let's do this, one bite-sized chunk at a time!

Links and Resources

Connect with Dawn

The Exceptional Collective

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

271.Let's Do This Together: Why Collaboration and Community Matter in Special Education Jul 03, 2025

Show notes

Hey there, teacher friend! 👋

Ever feel like you're on an island in your special ed classroom? You've got IEPs stacking up, routines to run, and a caseload that never seems to quit. We get it—and you're so not alone.

In this episode, Dawn is diving into the heart of what keeps us going: community and collaboration. Because while teaching special education can feel isolating, the truth is...you don't have to go it alone. 🙌

Here's what we're chatting about:

✨ Why building a SPED support system is essential (spoiler: it's not just about sharing lesson plans) ✨ How collaboration with your team—teachers, paras, specialists, families—can boost success for everyone ✨ What the Launchpad Challenge is and why it's the low-stress summer prep you didn't know you needed ✨ Real teacher testimonials that'll give you FOMO (the good kind!) ✨ How to join The Exceptional Collective and finally feel seen in your role

Ready to stop flying solo and start feeling supported? 🚀

👉 Join the Launchpad Challenge – Your summer prep retreat with templates, tools, and all the good vibes 👉 Become a part of The Exceptional Collective – A private community created just for special ed teachers like YOU

Let's build something amazing—together. 💛

Links and Resources

The Ultimate Supply List for Special Educators

Connect with Dawn

The Exceptional Collective

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

270.How to Prepare for the Summer Launchpad Challenge: Why It's a Game Changer for Special Ed Teachers Jun 26, 2025

Show notes

Hey there, amazing educators! 👋

Feeling that mid-summer "I should probably start thinking about school stuff..." tug? You're not alone—and I've got just the thing to help you ease back into prep mode without sacrificing your poolside peace. 💦☀️

In today's quick and power-packed episode, I'm spilling all the details on the Summer Launchpad Challenge—your shortcut to an organized, smooth, and actually doable back-to-school season. 🙌

We're talking:

✅ Why summer overwhelm hits hard (and how to stop it before it starts)
🗂️ How this challenge helps you plan smarter—not harder
💬 The community and support that will keep you motivated and on track

Whether you're soaking up the sun or tackling your summer to-do list, this episode will inspire you to prep with purpose and feel GOOD about it.

✨ Ready to make this your most stress-free school year yet?

Join the Launchpad Challenge and kickstart your summer prep with confidence.

Links and Resources

Join the Summer Launchpad Challenge

Connect with Dawn

The Exceptional Collective

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

269.Free PD That Actually Helps Special Ed Teachers (No Fluff, Just Real Support) Jun 19, 2025

Show notes

Let's be honest—most PD just doesn't get special ed. If you've ever sat through a training that had nothing to do with IEPs, visuals, or the beautiful chaos of your classroom… same.

That's why this week, we're ditching the fluff and diving into three totally free PD options made just for special ed teachers.

Whether you're a seasoned pro or new to the scene, these resources are built to support your unique classroom, your time, and your sanity—no death-by-PowerPoint included.

What You'll Learn:

Where to find free, flexible PD that won't waste your time
How to join a community that gets it
Why this summer is the perfect time to prep without the pressure
Where to get real talk from actual special ed teachers (no corporate speakers here!)

Links and Resources

Connect with Dawn

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

268.How to Create Adapted Resources That Actually Work in a Self-Contained Classroom Jun 12, 2025

Show notes

Creating adapted resources is a must in a self-contained classroom—but how do you make sure they're actually useful, not just cute or overwhelming? In this episode, Dawn Ellis breaks down how to avoid common pitfalls when adapting materials and how to keep your resources simple, functional, and effective.

From hands-on elements to visual supports and using Canva to streamline your workflow, you'll walk away with practical, time-saving tips you can use right away.

What You'll Learn:

The 3 most common mistakes teachers make when adapting resources
How to simplify and focus on what your students truly need
The power of visuals and interactive elements
Quick-start tips using Canva and pre-made templates
Why the Exceptional Collective is a game-changer for busy teachers

Links and Resources

Connect with Dawn

Exceptional Collective

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

267.Prompting vs Teaching—Are You Helping or Hovering? Jun 05, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, I'm taking a deep dive into the key differences between teaching and prompting—and why understanding this distinction is essential for effective instruction. Whether you're in a classroom, therapy setting, or working with learners one-on-one, prompt fading is a powerful tool to foster independence and skill mastery.

I'll walk you through exactly what prompt fading is, why it's critical (and non-negotiable), and how to implement it effectively—without overcomplicating the process.

If you're worried that your students are becoming prompt-dependent, this episode will help you fade support the right way—and give you tools that make it easy to start.

Links and Resources

Prompt Like a Pro Freebie

Connect with Dawn

Exceptional Collective

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

266.Let's Talk IEP Team Drama (and How to Avoid It) May 29, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, I'm taking a deep dive into why so many IEP teams face challenges when it comes to collaboration. While it's easy to blame scheduling conflicts or differing opinions, the root issues often go much deeper. I'm uncovering the hidden barriers that prevent meaningful teamwork and show you how to lead your team with confidence, clarity, and compassion.

You'll learn how to recognize the early warning signs of miscommunication, how to proactively set the tone for productive meetings, and which simple leadership tools can help you navigate even the most difficult team dynamics. Whether you're a teacher, administrator, or service provider, this episode is packed with actionable strategies to help you build stronger, more cohesive IEP teams—while avoiding unnecessary stress and conflict.

If you're ready to transform your next IEP meeting from tense and overwhelming to calm and collaborative, this episode is for you.

Key Highlights:

The top 3 team tension triggers (and what to do about them)
A real-time script you can use to set the tone in meetings
The free survey template that saves sanity every single time

If you're tired of navigating tense IEP meetings alone, this episode gives you the tools to lead with confidence and calm.

Links and Resources

Connect with Dawn

Exceptional Collective

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

265.Leading with Confidence at the IEP Table May 22, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, we're giving you the tools and strategies you need to walk into your next IEP meeting with confidence and clarity. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed by the process or simply want to lead with more intention, you'll learn how to set a positive and productive tone right from the start. We'll walk through how to navigate challenging dynamics with professionalism and empathy, and share practical pre-meeting tools that will help you stay organized, prepared, and in control. By the end of this episode, you'll be ready to step into your role as a strong, effective leader at the IEP table.

Key Highlights:

Scripts to use when things get awkward
Why a pre-meeting brief is a total game changer
Quick confidence-building habits you can start today

If you've ever second-guessed yourself before an IEP meeting, this episode will help you prep, plan, and present like a pro.

Links and Resources

Connect with Dawn

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

264.Turning Paras and Therapists into Powerhouse Team Members May 15, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, I'm sharing how to lead a team that actually feels like a team. You'll learn how to define roles, open up communication, and support your paras and therapists so they can support your students.

Key Highlights: