The present levels section of an IEP (or PLEP) is an important section that helps paint a picture of the student. It tells each person who is reading it what the child is currently able to do in the categories of academics, social-emotional skills, physical development, etc. As we enter this new school year, you are likely receiving, or have already received, new IEPs. You should thoroughly read each IEP, especially the present levels. This can give you a good idea for where to start with ... continue reading...
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Organizing an IEP binder
If you are a Special Education teacher, organization is an important skill to have. Special Education comes with lots of paperwork, so it can be helpful to have an IEP binder for each student. Read on to find out how to organize your IEP binder and what to include! Binder vs. folder Teachers have different preferences for how to best organize IEPS and other relevant paperwork. Some may prefer a folder for each student, while some prefer a binder. Personally, I prefer a binder, ... continue reading...
Tips for Starting in a New School
It can be a daunting task - moving to a new school! New students, new schedule, new buildings… new everything! Whether it is your first year or not, it can take a while to adjust, as I’ve had to do this year. As you get into your groove, (stay positive and know you WILL get into that groove) hopefully these tips can help you start in a fresh new location. Go Ahead and Contact Your Leader If you have their email, phone number, or any other professional contact information, it does not ... continue reading...
How to Use Life Skills Worksheets for Functional Reading
Life Skills Worksheets and Functional Reading are both alike in that they focus on important skills for independence and self-help for students in Special Education. How can you use Life Skills Worksheets here for Functional Reading practice? Life Skills Worksheets - What’s Included? There are 8 different topics covered in the Life Skills Workbook bundle. These sheets can be used for hands on practice of important life skills, and each workbook is crafted to provide students with ... continue reading...
New Teachers
Meet the Teacher Night Tips and Tricks
Meet the teacher night is an important part of back-to-school season. Typically, it is when parents, and sometimes students, come to school to meet the child's new teacher, see the classroom, etc. ... continue reading...
SEIT- what it is and how to find a job
When I was going through my teacher preparation program in undergrad, I assumed that the only thing you could do with a Special Education degree was be a classroom teacher in a school. I thought that ... continue reading...
Free Downloads
5 Fun and Easy Centers to Launch in the First Week of School
The first week of school is all about creating routines and expectations for students. This helps set you up for a successful school year! At the same time, we want to get to know our students, both ... continue reading...
5 Visual Tools You Need for Your Self-Contained Classroom
Visual tools are crucial for success in self-contained classrooms! So many of our students struggle with verbal-only directions. Pairing oral instructions with visual supports such as pictures, ... continue reading...
In Case You Missed It
Center Differentiation Tips for Special Education Staff
There are so many reasons to add centers to your classroom. The biggest benefit is that centers allow you to differentiate with ease! However, differentiation doesn't always come naturally, especially ... continue reading...
How to Manage Finished Work and Task Boxes
Between centers, independent work times, and group lessons, students stay busy in my special education classroom! But what to do with ALL of that finished work? Read on to see how I manage finished ... continue reading...