In this episode of "Be The Exception” we delve into the intricacies of behavior management with Sam Parmerlee, also known as The Ed Queen. Drawing from her experience as a former self-contained ED teacher and current behavioral consultant for multiple schools, Sam shares invaluable insights and practical strategies to navigate behavior challenges in the classroom. Throughout the episode, Sam addresses common challenges teachers face when implementing behavior plans, the importance of individuali...
May 02, 2024•44 min
Today, we're tackling one of the most crucial aspects of a special education teacher's role: the Individualized Education Program, or IEP, meeting. These meetings are the cornerstone of supporting our exceptional learners, but they can also be overwhelming. And it doesn’t seem to matter if you are a newbie or have been doing this for years…sometimes an IEP is just challenging. That's why I'm excited to share with you fourteen tips to help you navigate your IEP meetings with confidence and ease. ...
Apr 25, 2024•13 min
Paraprofessionals are an absolute must in the special education classroom. It is imperative to make sure that you are maximizing the support for both you and your students. In this week’s episode, I had the pleasure of chatting with Emeka from E Henderson EduConsulting, who shared invaluable insights on working effectively with paraprofessionals in special education. You will hear Emeka stress the importance of communication, building a strong rapport and setting aligned goals. She shares variou...
Apr 18, 2024•34 min
Earth Day, originating on April 22nd, 1970, is now a global event, annually observed by millions worldwide to raise awareness about environmental issues and advocate for conservation efforts. And it can be easily celebrated in the special education classroom! You can read books, plan special activities like planting seeds and complete adapted assignments that are made for your students. In this week’s episode, I’m sharing some of my favorite ways to celebrate and referencing several resources, i...
Apr 11, 2024•12 min
Welcome to "Be The Exception," the podcast dedicated to providing practical insights and strategies for educators in the special education community. In today's episode, we're diving into Autism Acceptance Month with our special guest, Laine Shields, a passionate special education teacher with a unique perspective as someone who is neurodivergent. Throughout this episode, we'll explore practical strategies for promoting autism acceptance and understanding in the classroom and beyond. From debunk...
Apr 04, 2024•38 min
Join us in celebrating the unsung heroes of education – paraprofessionals! 🌟 In this episode of Be The Exception, we're diving into creative ideas to show appreciation for these invaluable members of our team on their special day, April 3rd. Because we all know we can’t make it without them! Learn about the history of Paraprofessional Appreciation Day and why it's essential to recognize their contributions. Discover practical ways to express gratitude and appreciation for paraprofessionals in y...
Mar 28, 2024•14 min
In this episode of Be The Exception, I am exploring creative and impactful activities for promoting autism acceptance in schools and classrooms. From sensory-friendly events to interactive learning experiences. There are practical strategies and inspiring ideas for creating inclusive environments where every individual feels valued and celebrated. Tune in to discover how you can make a difference and be the exception in special education! In this episode you will learn: Bulletin Board ideas for ...
Mar 21, 2024•17 min
Spring is always a super busy time for me as a special education teacher, with what feels like one million IEP meetings. If I go into this time of year unprepared, unorganized, it just makes it that much more difficult. Doing a little work before my meetings makes all the difference in the world. In this week’s episode, I am sharing 10 essential pre-meeting steps for special education teachers. Doing these small steps before will save you so much time later on. In this episode you will learn: 10...
Mar 14, 2024•14 min
As we approach World Down Syndrome Day on March 21st, we're excited to shine a light on Down syndrome and celebrate the beautiful diversity of individuals with Down syndrome. Join us on a special episode of the "Be The Exception In Special Education" podcast as we explore ways to promote inclusion, spread awareness, and make a difference in our classrooms and communities. In this episode, we'll dive into fascinating facts about Down syndrome, creative ways to bring awareness, engaging activities...
Mar 07, 2024•16 min
In today's show, we're diving into the world of March-themed activities tailored specifically for special education classrooms. From St. Patrick's Day crafts to springtime science experiments, we've got you covered with creative ideas to keep your students engaged and inspired. In this episode you will learn: Different activities/crafts for St. Patrick’s Day Different spring science experiments that are made for the special education classroom About some of my favorite books for this time of yea...
Feb 29, 2024•14 min
There are so many misconceptions in the world of behavior..are rewards a bribe? Does the student just not like me? Why am I not seeing improvements even though I am doing everything “right”? How do we overcome these misconceptions so that we can truly make a difference in our classrooms in terms of behaviors? In this week’s episode, I am chatting with Chelsea Marelle about how to target and improve behavior supports in the special education classroom. She is an expert in the behavior world and h...
Feb 22, 2024•46 min
Aggressive, and sometimes confrontational, parents is a thing that at some point in your career you will have to deal with. This type of parent can make it where IEPs cannot be successful and keep the student’s best interest at the front and center. In this week’s episode, we are sharing with you 8 easy tips for dealing with aggressive, confrontational parents. In this episode you will learn: How to build relationships with challenging parents before the meeting The importance of getting parent ...
Feb 15, 2024•11 min
Dealing with behaviors in the classroom is something that every teacher deals with…whether you have been teaching for a year or 20 years. We always have students who push and test and we have to find a way to address what is happening each day. In this week’s episode, I am chatting with Shannon Dobson. She is a behavioral expert with so many ideas, processes and improvements to share. She is giving us some tried and true strategies that we can implement in our classroom that will help us find su...
Feb 08, 2024•36 min
What is backward chaining? Backward chaining is such an important idea in the special education world. Basically, you teach a student a skill by starting at the end and then slowly backing up each step until they are able to complete the task on their own. This technique can cut down on frustration, allows for more visuals or hands-on learning and often helps students reach independent levels more quickly. In this episode you will learn: What is backward chaining and why it is important in the s...
Feb 01, 2024•12 min
In this episode, we're joined by Tiffany Atkinson and Jessica McWhorter from Mane, a non-profit specializing in equine-assisted learning activities. They discuss how Mane, established in 1994, has evolved to support children and adults with a variety of disabilities. We delve into their therapy programs, learn about the process of matching horses to learners, and hear touching success stories. This episode is a must-listen for those interested in alternative therapies in special education. In th...
Jan 25, 2024•28 min
When students with disabilities face academic or social challenges for which they feel ill-equipped, some give up, avoid tasks, or act out. These students, especially those with neurodiversity or trauma history, may exhibit poor executive functioning skills or struggle with resiliency, the ability to overcome and adapt to challenging situations. IEPs that ignore trauma history may interfere with student progress. Educators should meet students with disabilities where they are, setting goals emph...
Jan 18, 2024•15 min
In this episode of Be the Exception Podcast, we have Malia Hollowell, a renowned educator and advocate for the Science of Reading, joining us again. With two decades of experience, Malia shares her journey from confronting the stark reality of unpreparedness to developing a comprehensive, effective approach to teaching reading. Key Highlights: Malia's transformative journey in education. Introduction to the ACED four-step system: Assessment, Creating groups, End of year goals, and Designing a pl...
Jan 11, 2024•25 min
As we step into January 2024, we understand that the transition from holiday break back to the classroom comes with its unique set of challenges. In today's episode, we're focusing on strategies and tips to help you refresh your teaching approach and reconnect with your students. So, let's turn the page to a new chapter filled with opportunities and growth! Remember that your dedication and passion as a special education teacher have the power to transform lives. The start of a new year is the p...
Jan 04, 2024•13 min
As 2023 comes to a close I want to take a moment to highlight some of the top episodes from Be the Exception Podcast. I briefly touch on everything from neurodiversity to lesson planning as we take a look back. Links and Resources Episode 145: Rachelle’s Instagram Rachelle’s Facebook Rachelle’s TpT Store Rachelle’s Email Episode 149: Laine’s IEP Vision Goal Freebie Transition Abilities TpT Store Transition Abilities Facebook Transition Abilities Instagram Transition Abilities Website Transition ...
Dec 28, 2023•17 min
Feedback is defined as information about a person’s performance of a task that is used as a basis for improvement. Feedback is so important for our special education students. It is imperative for their growth and improvement. So how do we master the art of giving feedback? In this week’s episode, I’m sharing 5 different tips for giving effective feedback. These tips will help you become a master at giving feedback to your students and also other professionals that you work with. They are easy t...
Dec 21, 2023•14 min
Classroom behavior…ick, am I right? Or maybe just sometimes ick…it can just be so challenging to make sure that behaviors are controlled, that we are finding the reasons behind the behaviors and that all of our students are in a place where they can learn. In this week’s episode, I am chatting with my friend Abby from Mrs. Moes Modifications about behavior management insight for the special ed classroom. Abby is a behavior interventionist and she is sharing all her knowledge to help you gain con...
Dec 14, 2023•25 min
In this festive episode, we explore the importance of inclusive holiday celebrations in special education classrooms. Drawing inspiration from blog posts and highlighting educational benefits, we dive into various Christmas activities that will make this season unforgettable for your students. Plus, we've got special gifts, exclusive memberships, and holiday designs to share with you. Tune in for inspiration and actionable ideas! Links and Resources Holiday Designed Tees for Teachers Unwrap the ...
Dec 07, 2023•15 min
What does it mean to join the digital frontier in your classroom? There is so much technology out there and sometimes educators think that our students are not ready to advance in this area…at least when talking about using digital learning to be successful in future school and employment opportunities. In today's episode, we're thrilled to explore the innovative world of Digitability with Michelle and Rebecca. Discover how their journey from traditional classrooms to digital frontiers is transf...
Nov 30, 2023•46 min
This week’s podcast is a little different! I have some super special Black Friday sales going on and I wanted you to make sure that you knew exactly what you are getting! So listen in and find out what is included in each special this week. Connect with Dawn Find me on IG Etsy Shop TpT Store Ultimate Sales Page Subscribe 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 po...
Nov 21, 2023•13 min
So what is a sensory room anyway? It is a space that allows students with sensory needs to receive an immersive sensory experience. The space does not have to be an entire room, a corner is better than nothing. It is also not limited to a special education classroom, but rather can serve a purpose in a general education classroom as well. This week I am sharing ideas of what to put in a sensory space and how to get one started on a budget. You will come away with practical ideas of where to star...
Nov 16, 2023•16 min
Do you ever feel like you are being pulled from making a difference with your students because you have to collect more and more data? There are 14,000 things happening at once in your room and you have to stop it all to track progress….double ugh! Data matters! We know it, we want it…but we also want it to be easier and more efficient. In this week’s episode I am chatting with AJ Howard from Tracked Learning about his new software that makes this a real life possibility. In this episode you wil...
Nov 09, 2023•40 min
Task boxes in the simplest form are activities that students should be able to complete independently. They are also one of the most amazing tools for a special education classroom. They can be used for any subject or area, they are great time fillers and they are the perfect review for all students. In this week’s episode, I’m chatting about what special educators need to know about task boxes. By the end of the episode you will be excited about all the possibilities that task boxes can bring. ...
Nov 02, 2023•14 min
Prompts are cues, whether verbal or visual, that aid our students in meeting expectations in various settings. Prompts are not to be feared; they're valuable tools we use to set our students up for success. We introduce prompts into the environment to help our learners achieve their goals and navigate their routines effectively. In the classroom, prompts manifest in various forms. For instance, reminding a student to say "thank you" after receiving a pencil increases their success in demonstrati...
Oct 26, 2023•9 min
Assessments…just the word sounds overwhelming…especially in the special education world. There are SOOOO many options to choose from! How do you pick? Where do you start? In this week’s episode I am chatting with my friend Heather from Full Sped Ahead all about assessments. She is sharing her knowledge on how to choose the right assessment to get the info needed about your students. She lives and breathes assessments right now and loves implementing them in the classroom. Her tips and strategies...
Oct 19, 2023•27 min
We all know that we cannot survive in our special education classrooms without our paraprofessionals. This year I have several new members of my team and it has been somewhat of a learning curve. We can’t expect our staff to walk in and know exactly what to do in all the day to day situations. It is imperative that we train them, continuously, in what is needed. In this week’s episode, I am sharing some ideas on the power of training your paraprofessionals. This training needs to be on-going and...
Oct 12, 2023•10 min
