Special Education Inner Circle

I've been presenting IEP Workshops at PTAs nationwide and these two concerns from parents and teachers keep creeping up... The "What Curriculum?" Conundrum: Because winging it just doesn't cut it anymore. The Inclusion Illusion: Spoiler alert - it's not just about sharing a classroom! In this episode I serve up: Leadership hacks that'll make your head spin (in a good way!) Mind-shifting strategies to turn those "ugh" moments into "aha!" breakthroughs Practical tips to rally your IEP team Ready to transform from stressed-out educators and parents to confident leader? Let's make some special education magic happen! Join me in the next Master IEP Coach® Mentorship https://masteriepcoach.com/mentorship Grab your free 12 Questions Workbook https://masteriepcoach.com/masterclass Read the Master IEP Coach® Blog https://masteriepcoach.com/blog/ Contact Catherine with Questions https://masteriepcoach.com/contact

Inclusion of children who receive Special Education services is not a luxury we can afford to delay. Let's challenge the common practice of postponing inclusion until "routines are established." Discover why inclusion should start on day one and how waiting can be a huge set back for children with IEPs. Whether you're a parent, teacher, or administrator, you'll gain valuable insights on creating truly inclusive school communities from the get-go. Learn practical steps to initiate crucial conversations and drive change in your school. It's time to rethink inclusion – because every child deserves to belong from day one. Learn More at Master IEP Coach® Become a Master IEP Coach®

Are you tired of the communication breakdown between school and home in Special Education? In this episode, I'm sharing two game-changing strategies that will transform how you handle IEP updates. Discover why sending weekly reports on Fridays might be sabotaging your weekend, and learn a simple shift that could make all the difference. Plus, I share an innovative approach to daily updates that not only saves teachers time, but also empowers students. Whether you're a parent or educator, these practical tips will help you navigate the IEP process with less stress and more success. Ready to change up your school-to-home communication? Let's go! Get IEP Freebies Join the free next IEP Coaching Session Learn to become a Master IEP Coach®

Feeling overwhelmed by back-to-school prep? I've got a box you need to check that could make a huge difference this year. It's all about that assistive technology box the IEP - you know, the one that's often ignored? Let's chat about what it really means and how it can help a child with communication, independence, and safety. Learn More about Master IEP Coach® Visit AngelSense

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Listen in for an eye-opening journey into the world of Special Olympics' Unified Champion Schools! In this episode, we're pulling back the curtain on a revolutionary approach to inclusion that's sweeping through schools nationwide. You'll hear from Haylie, about Special Olympics' global education initiatives, and Hannah, a Special Olympic athlete whose story will challenge you to dream bigger. What does an "inclusion revolution" actually look like in practice? How is a sports organization changing the game in education? And why is playing together more powerful than you might think? From unexpected friendships to globe-trotting adventures, this conversation is packed with surprises. Whether you're a parent, educator, or someone who cares about building a more inclusive world, this episode will leave you inspired and equipped to make a difference. Ready to challenge your assumptions and see inclusion in a whole new light? Press play and join the inclusion revolution! 📘 Free IEP Resources 🧠 Become a Master IEP Coach® 📧 Contact Catherine for speaking engagements and IEP workshops in your town!

Hey there, parents and teachers! Join me for a chat with the creative minds behind Calm Strips. We're exploring how these nifty textured stickers are making a real difference in classrooms and beyond, helping kids (and adults!) with focus and anxiety. Learn about their simple design, many uses, and why students and teachers are loving them. We'll also tackle those back-to-school butterflies with some down-to-earth advice from parents who've walked this path. Whether you're teaching or parenting, this episode is full of helpful tips and easy ideas. Tune in for a fun, informative conversation that'll leave you feeling ready and excited for the school year ahead! Grab free IEP resources at masterIEPcoach.com Learn to Become a Master IEP Coach

🖱️ In this episode, Catherine interviews Parker, the inventor of the Hoglet - the world's first fidget computer mouse. Discover how a former tech professional turned special education teacher invented a much needed assistive technology! 🚀 Key highlights: Parker's journey from tech to teaching 📚 The classroom experience that sparked the Hoglet idea 💡 The thoughtful design process behind this innovative tool 🎨 Benefits for sensory-seeking students and those with ADHD 🤗 How to incorporate the Hoglet into IEPs as assistive technology 📝 Catherine shares valuable IEP tips and emphasizes the importance of documenting helpful tools. This conversation is a must-listen for parents and educators looking for creative solutions in special education! 🌟 Prepare to be inspired by how one educator's determination is making waves in the world of accessible learning. 🌊 Send Catherine a DM on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/catherinewhitcher/ Learn More About Master IEP Coach®: https://www.masteriepcoach.com/ Get 12 IEP Questions You Need to Ask Before Your Next IEP Meeting: https://www.masteriepcoach.com/blog/12-iep-questions-with-master-iep-coach-founder-catherine-whitcher-m-ed

Hear me out on why sending a recap letter after an IEP meeting is crucial, even when everything goes smoothly. Learn how this simple strategy can prevent misunderstandings, document important agreements, and keep the collaborative spirit alive. I'll walk you through the key elements of an effective recap letter and explain why it's more than just an email. Whether you're a parent or an educator, this episode offers valuable insights to enhance your IEP process and ensure the best outcomes for students. Send me a DM on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/catherinewhitcher/ Learn More About Master IEP Coach®: https://www.masteriepcoach.com/

Ever feel frustrated with the words being used at IEP meetings? You're not alone! In this episode, Catherine shares 5 critical language shifts that'll transform your IEP conversations. Whether you're a parent trying to express your child's needs or an educator aiming to build better plans, these strategies are key to simplifying the process. We're talking fewer words, with more impact. Specific statements, not vague generalizations. Gentle approaches vs harsh demands. And trust me, by the end of this episode, you'll be ready to infuse hope into every IEP discussion. With nearly 30 years in the special education trenches, I've seen these shifts work magic through some of the toughest IEP situations. So grab your favorite beverage, hit play, and let's upgrade your IEP experience together. It's time to get everyone on the same page and create plans that actually work. Ready to become an IEP conversation pro? Let's do this! Links to Learn More - Master IEP Coach® Resources Become a Master IEP Coach® Follow Catherine on Instagram