Be The Exception In Special Education

Latest Episodes:

223.Enhancing Communication in ECSE: CORE Vocabulary Strategies Jul 25, 2024

Show notes

In this episode, we welcome back Ashley Lutz to discuss the importance of CORE vocabulary in Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE). Ashley shares her expertise on incorporating play to enhance learning, using visuals effectively, and modeling CORE vocabulary for students. Join us for practical tips, success stories, and a special freebie that will support your classroom implementation.

In this episode you will learn:

The essentials of CORE vocabulary and its importance
Enhancing learning through play
Effective use of visuals to support communication
Practical tips for modeling and practicing CORE vocabulary
Overcoming challenges and ensuring consistency at home

Links and Resources

How to Use Core Vocabulary in the Classroom Blog FREEBIE: Top Core Vocabulary Words to Use

Connect with Ashley from Spedtacular Days

Ashley's Instagram Ashley's Facebook Ashley's Blog Join Ashley's Email List

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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!

222.Practical Tips for Paraprofessionals in Special Education Jul 18, 2024

Show notes

If you are anything like me, you can't survive without your paraprofessionals. They are absolutely essential to everything that happens inside my classroom. But sometimes, we fall into routines that are not effective or that are not maximizing their benefits.

In today's episode I'm sharing practical tips for paraprofessionals working in special education. Whether you're new to the role or looking to enhance your skills, this episode is packed with valuable insights to help you succeed

In this episode you will learn:

How to understand your role in the classroom
How to communicate effectively with the classroom teacher
A few must-have behavior management strategies
Professional development ideas just for you

Links and Resources

Paraprofessional Training Manual

Connect with Dawn

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221.Enhancing Writing in Special Education with Predictable Chart Writing and AAC Strategies Jul 11, 2024

Show notes

In this episode, we welcome back Heather C. to discuss effective strategies for teaching writing in special education. Heather shares her expertise on Predictable Chart Writing (PCW) and integrating Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) to support diverse learners. Tune in to learn about engagement techniques, customization for different needs, and practical tips for getting started with these methods.

In this episode you will learn:

Creative ways to keep students engaged and motivated
How to adapt PCW for students with varying needs and abilities
Success stories and memorable moments from Heather's experience
Top tips for teachers new to PCW and AAC

Links and Resources

AAC and Predictable Chart Writing Strategies Blog FREE: 4 Weeks of PCW Lesson Plans Predictable Chart Writing Curriculum

Connect with Heather

Full Sped Ahead Website Full Sped Ahead Instagram Full Sped Ahead Facebook

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220.Empowering Your Paraprofessionals from Day One Jul 04, 2024

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In this episode, Dawn Ellis shares essential strategies for setting up your paraprofessional team for success right from the start. Learn how to establish clear expectations, communicate effectively, and provide comprehensive training that empowers your paras to thrive in their roles.

In this episode you will learn:

The importance of setting clear roles and responsibilities for paraprofessionals.
Effective communication strategies to maintain a cohesive team.
Comprehensive training techniques that cover behavior management, instructional support, and more.
Creating a supportive team environment that fosters collaboration and respect.

Links and Resources

Summer Challenge Facebook Group Paraprofessional Training Manual

Connect with Dawn

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219.Ways to Start Planning Your Curriculum Now as a Special Educator Jun 27, 2024

Show notes

Comprehensive curriculum planning is a written plan that guides the design of learning and development goals for children, the experiences they will have to achieve those goals, and how adults will support their learning. But how do you start? What do you include in a comprehensive curriculum plan?

In this week's episode I am sharing exactly how you create a comprehensive curriculum plan and the things that you should focus on the most.

In this episode you will learn:

The basics of curriculum planning
How to start your curriculum planning
Tools and resources needed for curriculum planning

Links and Resources

Special Education Lesson Plan Templates Summer Launchpad Training

Connect with Dawn

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218.Ways to Start Planning Your Curriculum Now as Special Educators Jun 20, 2024

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This episode dives deep into common challenges faced by special education teachers when traditional teaching methods stop producing results. We explore signs of ineffective strategies, introduce fresh approaches, and invite listeners to join our free summer training.

Are you ready to take a deep dive into common challenges faced by special education teachers in the classroom? Sometimes traditional teaching methods stop producing results and you have to pivot.

In this episode we are talking about ineffective strategies, introducing fresh approaches and sharing some exciting opportunities for this summer.

In this episode you will learn:

How to identify when teaching methods aren't working.
Strategies to reassess and improve your educational approach.
Tips on integrating innovative teaching methods.
Exclusive insights into our upcoming free summer training program.

Links and Resources

Summer Challenge Group

Connect with Dawn

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217.Making the Most of Templates in Your Special Education Room Jun 13, 2024

Show notes

Templates are designed to make life easier…something we all need in the special education classroom, am I right? And if you are anything like me, the more templates you can use the better…why recreate the wheel every time you have to send that email asking for input?

In this week's episode I'm sharing all about the templates that I use. I will explain why I think templates are important, the types of templates I have found useful and how you can use them in your own room.

In this episode you will learn:

The benefits of using templates
Real world applications for templates
How my summer training will help you with templates and more!

Links and Resources

Join the Summer Challenge Join the Waitlist for The Exceptional Collective

Connect with Dawn

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216. How to Streamline Your Lesson Planning Jun 06, 2024

Show notes

Ever taught a lesson that was a total flop? You found your students unengaged, the goals of the lesson were just off and everything seemed to go wrong. It happens…to all of us! But there are things that you can do if this seems to be happening to you on a more regular basis.

In this week's episode I'm sharing three things to consider

In this episode you will learn:

Signs Your Current Methods May Not Be Working
Rethinking Your Approach
Practical Tips for a Teaching Revamp
Introduction to Free Summer Training

Links and Resources

Join the Summer Challenge Join the Waitlist for The Exceptional Collective

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

If you are loving the podcast, I would be really grateful if you left me a review 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!

215.Empowering Autism Support: Strategies and Insights with Dr. Christine Reeve May 30, 2024

Show notes

Dr. Christine Reeve is a seasoned educator and a leader in developing strategies and resources for students with autism. With a passion ignited by her extensive experience, she founded Autism Classroom Resources, a platform dedicated to supporting educators and families.

In this week's episode she is sharing all of her knowledge with us, including some incredible tips for those new teachers.

In this episode you will learn:

The journey that led Dr. Reeve to specialize in autism education.
Key strategies for setting up an autism-friendly classroom environment.
Techniques for managing challenging behaviors and promoting positive outcomes.
The importance of collaboration among educators, parents, and support staff.
Effective methods for integrating social skills development into daily activities.
How to create an inclusive classroom culture that fosters belonging.
Recommended resources and professional development opportunities for educators looking to deepen their understanding of autism.

Links and Resources

Autism Classroom Resources Free Resources Library Days of the Week Free Response Cards Blog on Autism Classroom Setup Resources for Setting Up Classrooms Special Educator Academy The National Clearinghouse on Autism Evidence & Practice The Autism Standards Project

Connect with Dr. Reeve

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214.Top 10 Tips to Wrap Up Your School Year in the SPED Classroom May 23, 2024

Show notes

Welcome to Episode 214 of "Be The Exception In Special Education," where we dive into essential end-of-year activities for special educators. Host Dawn Ellis guides you through a strategic approach to close the school year with strength and prepare for the next. Whether you're tidying documents or reflecting on the year's progress, this episode offers practical advice and inspiring insights.

What You'll Learn:

Top 10 End-of-Year Tasks: Understand the critical actions special educators should take to finish the year strong.
Organizational Strategies: Tips on organizing physical and digital spaces to ensure a smooth transition into the next school year.
Professional and Personal Reflection: Guidance on how to reflect on the past year and plan for professional development over the summer.
Appreciation Techniques: Ideas for showing gratitude to support staff, co-teachers, and students.
Done-For-You Resources: Discover ready-to-use resources available in Dawn's TpT shop to simplify your end-of-year preparations.

Links and Resources

Summer Resources for the Special Education Classroom

Connect with Dawn

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