Behavior - what feeling does that word bring up? Many times when we talk about student behavior, we associate the term with "negative" or an action that we want to eliminate or change as soon as possible. Actually behaviors are neither "good" or "bad," yet simply actions that can be shaped, reinforced, or discouraged. Our day is made up of behaviors all day long. Some good, some we're probably not quite as proud of, and most we are completely unaware of. As I planning this ... continue reading...
Fonts for Special Education
Fonts can be fun, plain and simple. A quick glance at my computer, you'll see that I'm a bit of a font collector. Bold, fanciful, script, and even doodle fonts. Please don't get me started on font pairings... One of my proudest moments came a few years ago, when I influenced my school to start using fonts from Kimberly Geswein (see ya later Comic Sans). Why are fonts so fun? I think it's because they offer us a low-risk opportunity to show off our artistic side and maybe even a bit ... continue reading...
Which Data When?
This is a post about data tracking that I've been wanting to share for so long! Actually, I should clarify what "so long" means... First, I wanted this post on data tracking for MYSELF for so long. During those first few years of teaching, I was always on the lookout for the "perfect" data collection system. Asking "Which Data When?" I was on the search for that one (elusive) data tracking page that was going to make my life so much easier and instantly help me determine my next ... continue reading...
Family Communication
What family communication systems do you have in place? How do you stay in touch with key stakeholders throughout the school year? Building relationships is very important with key stakeholders: our students and their families. In many cases, this is probably something we can leave unsaid. We're already communicating on a regular basis, however, there are always a few families that are a bit tough to get in touch with. A wise mentor shared with me that every family on our caseload ... continue reading...
Small Group Planning
Small group planning and differentiation usually top the list of questions I receive as an instructional coach. Last year, I shared some quick tips for pulling small groups in the inclusion setting. These tips were based on the success I experienced after trying MULTIPLE ways to support students in small groups. These suggestions have continued to support teachers however, TRUST YOURSELF - you know your students best and what they need to succeed. It's not SMALL vs. WHOLE What ... continue reading...
