To school psychologists, it often feels like testing is used as the default solution for obstacles in special education. Is that always best for kids?
Have you heard the adage, "Do not listen with the intent to reply, but with the intent to understand"? It's Communication 101. It's simple, yet incredibly challenging. It's easy to listen when all is going well, but when emotions run high and failure appears to be the next way stop on the horizon, listening to understand becomes a monumental task.
I called my mentor and cried. My mentor said to march right into the principal’s office and tell her there is no way I could do it. The principal smiled, said, “Yes you can,” and walked away.
Districts are increasingly moving toward a pattern of strengths and weaknesses model for assessment of learning disabilities. Here are some things to know before you get started.
Every child, no matter how far behind, is on a developmental path hard-wired for growth and learning. Using strength-based language doesn’t mean ignoring or sugar-coating weaknesses. It means keeping the focus on student growth.
40 years after Larry P. v. Riles, schools are still discriminating against kids of color. What does disproportionality look like in 2019? And what can schools do about it?
Our friend and fellow behavior analyst, Alex, is pretty passionate about inclusion. She’s so passionate that we asked her to write an article about it.
As it stands, the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) requires states to adopt criteria for the identification of specific learning disabilities (SLD). What you may not realize, however, is that within these IDEA regulations, there is still plenty of room for debate.
Paraprofessionals are essential to effective special education teams. By preparing them, appreciating them, and supporting them, schools become more successful and kids thrive.
With so much competition for a slice of district budgets, how do schools meet ALL needs? Well, the short answer is that they probably can’t, but that doesn’t stop them from trying. And while there may be shortages in staff, there is no shortage of dedicated professionals giving their all to help kids.
We see you working hard to be an effective champion for kids.
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