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7 Questions to Help Special Educators Reflect

Welcome to the final episode of 2023, marking almost four years of the Sped Prep Academy Podcast! It's incredible how this little idea during Covid has blossomed into a long-lasting journey to support my fellow speducators.

In today's episode, I want to guide you through self-reflection with seven crucial questions. As Maya Angelou wisely said, "Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better." This quote encapsulates my approach to working with teachers—continuous growth through self-awareness.

Before diving into the questions, let me share a bit of personal reflection. Last year, I aimed to have a co-host once a month, and I achieved it. The Sped Teacher Small Talk episodes with Paul were a hit. This year, we want to turn the tables and have you ask us questions, fostering a more tailored and helpful series. Ask your questions HERE!!!

Reflecting on my TPT store's growth, I've found success in addressing teachers' struggles, especially with the Impact Statement product line. These tools help teachers navigate the crucial but often challenging section of IEPs. If you haven't explored them yet, check out the free Impact Statement Sentence Stem Examples 

Lastly, as an instructional coach supporting special education teachers, I've seen the immense value coaches bring to educators. If you don't have a coach in your district, start questioning why. Everyone, especially special education teachers, deserves this support to enhance their skills and confidence.

Now, onto the 7 reflection questions for you as a special education teacher:

1. Scheduling IEP Meetings: Do you intentionally set up your annual meetings in advance to ensure a solid IEP and avoid last-minute stress?
2. Communication with General Education Teachers: When scheduling meetings, do you inform general education teachers in advance and send calendar invites?
3. Inclusion of Related Service Providers: Are you including all related service providers in the scheduling process and considering translation needs?
4. Pre-Meeting Input: Do you routinely gather input from parents, general education teachers, and students before IEP meetings to inform the process? Here are some forms you can use to collect that data
5. Effective Use of Data: Are you using data to identify strengths, needs, and current performance, creating strong PLAAFP statements?
6. Timely Paperwork Submission: Are you following expectations for turning in paperwork and closing out an IEP on time?
7. Accommodations and Modifications: Are you evaluating the need for accommodations and modifications, avoiding a one-size-fits-all approach

After reflecting on these questions, set goals for yourself. Acknowledge your strengths, pinpoint areas for improvement, and commit to intentional growth in the new year. 

Don't forget to sign up for the Sped Summit happening Jan. 15-Feb. 14

The Sped Teacher Summit is the world's Biggest Special Education Conference and it’s completely free. Serious learning, PD certificates, exclusive giveaways, and a whole lot of fun! I'm also thrilled to let you know that I'll be presenting at this event…all about navigating leadership and overcoming the “I Don’t Know How to Be a Boss” Mentality.  

Joining the SPED Summit is a breeze. Just go to Sped Summit.com, create a free account and select the sessions that interest you the most.