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How to Prepare for an iEP Meeting (And Actually Feel Ready)

Knowing how to prepare for an IEP meeting isn’t something anyone really teaches you. You figure it out through trial, error, and a lot of stress. This is the system that takes most of that stress off the table. The IEP Forms Bundle gives you five forms that work together across the entire IEP cycle – from the moment a meeting gets scheduled to the day after it wraps up. Here’s exactly how to use each one. Step 1: Start with the IEP Meeting Checklist The moment the meeting is scheduled, open (or print) the checklist. Not two days out. Right away. The checklist is your preparation guide. Review it every single day leading up to the meeting so nothing slips through the cracks – a missing interpreter, an uninvited general ed teacher,…

Ten Awesome Back to School Tips for Teachers

Depending on where you are, summer is over or almost over, and I’ve got some great back-to-school tips for teachers to help you start this upcoming school year right. Back-to-school season can be nerve-wracking for some teachers, especially if this is your first year or you are new to a school. It can also feel like that if you are not as organized as you would like. Most schools plan several events to accommodate the various needs of parents; these events might be Back to School Night, Meet the Teacher, Orientation, and Open House. No matter what grade level you teach or what your school or district calls these events, I’m sure you will find some of these back to school tips for teachers helpful.  1. Setup event stations Meet the Teacher, Back-to-School…

Conquer Your Day: The Superpower of To Do Lists for Teachers

We all know the feeling: that never-ending mountain of tasks, the constant mental juggling act. Between lesson plans, IEPs, parent conferences, and (let’s be honest) the occasional glitter explosion, staying organized in special education can feel impossible. But fear not, my friends! Today, I’m here to share a secret weapon in our arsenal: the humble teacher to do list. It might seem simple, but trust me, this little tool can be a game-changer! Why Teacher To-Do Lists Rule for Special Educators Making Your Teacher To Do List Magical Now, onto the fun part! Here are some tips to supercharge your to-do list: Remember, your teacher to-do list is your personal cheerleader. It’s a tool to empower you, not define you. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find what works best for you and…

The Power of Daily Agenda Slides in the SpEd Classroom

In the ever-changing world of education, finding efficient ways to manage time and enhance productivity is crucial for you and your students. One powerful tool that can revolutionize your classroom routine is the use of Daily Agenda Slides. You might refer to these Daily Agenda Slides as something else in your school, district, or state. A Daily Agenda Slide is simply a slide that includes a preview of the day or week. You can use them in various ways depending on what grade you teach. In elementary school, these slides might include a lunch menu, special area, a list of things students need to do and materials needed, and reminders about homework and field trips. In middle or high school, these slides might include homework, bell ringers, and objectives for the day or…

Top 5 IEP or Parent-Teacher Conference Tips

Parent-teacher conferences or IEP meetings can be overwhelming or stressful. Based upon the type of meeting, many people might be involved with different opinions. Not all conference experiences are good. Parents and teachers might bring that mindset with them. Listed below are my top 5 best tips to help change that mindset. 1. Be Prepared and Organized. Have everything together. These items might include student work samples, conference forms or IEP documents, an IEP Agenda, etc. The papers should all be in one folder. The things that need to be signed have Post-It Flags to ensure you remember them. Nothing is more nerve-wracking than digging through heaps of papers to find what you are looking for in front of your parents. This is your time to prove to them what type of teacher you…

I am the owner and author behind All Things Exceptional. I am also a mother and teacher of children with special needs. I have 3 children – one girl and two boys. My middle son has Autism, Epilepsy, and a few other health conditions. He truly inspires me. I also have a brother and many relatives with intellectual disabilities and/or on the spectrum. I can sincerely relate to the families I work with and genuinely love all things ESE or Exceptional Student Education (hence my business name). Read More

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