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Before You Close the Door: Reflecting on This School Year

In this first episode of our Summer Strategies for Special Educators series, we’re taking a pause before the full summer reset begins. Whether your classroom is already packed up or you're heading into Extended School Year, this is the perfect moment to reflect on the past year.

What went well?
What could have gone better?
And what absolutely crashed and burned?

Jennifer walks you through a simple, reflective framework designed just for special educators. You'll review key areas like paraprofessionals, instruction, routines, IEPs, and communication—then identify what worked, what needs tweaking, and how to use those insights to set a few meaningful goals for the next school year.

You can love your job AND still protect your peace.

Grab your printable reflection chart, or sketch it out on paper and follow along as we break down the year—one area at a time.

In This Episode, You'll Learn:

Why reflection is the most important first step to planning for next year
How to use a simple 4-column chart to reflect on eight key areas of your role
What questions to ask yourself to dig deeper into what worked (and what didn’t)
How to turn honest reflection into realistic, actionable goals

Reflection Chart Columns:

🟢 Nailed It – What worked well this year?
🟡 Could Do Better – What could use a little tweaking?
🔴 Crashed & Burned – What needs to go or be totally reworked?

Reflection Areas Covered:

Paraprofessionals
Instruction
Routines & Procedures
Data Collection
IEP Management
Behavior Support
Scheduling
Communication

🎯 Final Task:
After completing your chart, choose 2–3 intentional goals to carry into next year—just for you. Use the clarity you’ve gained today to support the version of yourself that will show up next fall with purpose and peace of mind.

📄 Grab the Free Printable:
Download the End-of-Year Reflection Chart from the show notes and use it now—or save it in your planner for a quieter moment this summer. It’s one of the best gifts you can give your future self!

💌 Let’s Stay Connected:
If this episode resonated with you, let Jennifer know! You can always send a message or tag Special Education for Beginners on social media to share your favorite takeaway.

Download the Transcript

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