Sped Prep Academy Podcast

Don't want to miss an episode??

Get notified as soon as a new epidsode drops!

We won't send spam. Unsubscribe at any time.

Listen to the show

Beyond the Buzzword: 5 Inclusive Practices Special Guide to Implementing Assistive Technology Practices

Inclusion is a word we hear constantly—in IEP meetings, PD sessions, and school mission statements. But for many special educators, inclusion still feels more like a buzzword than a practical reality.

In this episode of Special Education for Beginners, I discuss what inclusion really means—and why it’s more than just placing a student in a general education seat. I share my personal perspective on the true purpose of special education, offer real-life stories that bring inclusion to life, and outline 5 inclusive practices that special educators and paraprofessionals can use to create more meaningful opportunities for students with disabilities.

"Inclusion isn’t just a word.

It’s a commitment... It’s an action... It’s a belief system."

Whether you’re new to the field or a seasoned educator, this episode will leave you inspired and equipped to take action—because inclusion isn’t just a philosophy. It’s a practice.

🔑 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

Why “inclusion” has become a buzzword—and how we can move beyond it
The real-life impact of inclusive experiences for students with disabilities
How inclusion builds empathy and understanding for all students
Why full-time self-contained placements should not be the default
5 actionable strategies to help teachers and paras support inclusion every day

Unfortunately, inclusion is often talked about, but not always backed up with systems, supports, or intentionality.

That’s where you come in.

As special education teachers, you are often the bridge—the connector between students who need the support and the general education settings we want them to thrive in. Inclusion isn’t just a general education or special education responsibility.

It’s a team effort.

And we play a vital role in making it happen.

So here’s your challenge for the week:
Think about one classroom, one teacher, or one team that you could support in becoming just a little more inclusive.

>>Maybe it’s a conversation.
>>>>Maybe it’s a strategy share.
>>>>>>Maybe it’s helping someone see a student’s potential in a new light.

Whatever it is—your voice matters. Your expertise matters. And your students deserve classrooms built with them in mind.

Resources Mentioned:

Prompting Hierarchy Visual

Download the Transcript

GET ACCESS TO THE SPED PREP ACADEMY RESOURCE LIBRARY BY BECOMING AN ASSOCIATE MEMBER HERE!

JOIN THE COMMUNITY:

The Sped Prep Academy Facebook Group

Connect with Jennifer on Instagram

ENJOYING THE PODCAST?

Tag me @spedprepacademy on Instagram and tell me what you are listening to!

SUBSCRIBE AND REVIEW

I don’t want you to miss a thing! Be the first to know when a new episode is available by subscribing in iTunes HERE!

If you would like to support The Sped Prep Academy® podcast, a review would mean so much. By leaving a review, you are helping fellow special educators find this podcast to receive the help and support they need. To leave a review in iTunes, click HERE and scroll down to Ratings and Reviews. Click “Write a Review” and share with me how this podcast is helping you grow as an educator!

Listen, rate & subscribe on itunes today!

Free Percentile Chart

Amazing Feature