Special Educators Resource Room Podcast: Real Talk for Special Education Teachers
Special Educators Resource Room with Jennifer DeBrosse is a podcast for busy special education teachers. It provides time-saving solutions and practical advice for both new and experienced educators. The host, a dual-certified teacher with over 25 years of experience, shares quick, action-packed episodes to help teachers manage their workload. Topics include inclusion classroom strategies, resource room settings, and tips for getting time back.
Episodes
184. Why Your Students (and Your Para) Shouldn't Have to Guess
If your students are constantly asking, "What's next?" or support staff isn't sure how independent work should flow, this episode is for you. This is Week 5 of the Special Educators Summer Series and we're covering the K in the TASKS Framework: Keep It Consistent. You'll learn the five simple components that help students move through independent work with confidence
183. Clear Start. Clear Work. Clear Finish. | The Secret to Independent Work
There is a difference between a task a student can do and a task a student can do independently.Most classroom activities are designed for the first. Independent work requires the second.In this episode, we're talking about one of the most important parts of building an independent work system: setting up the task itself.Every independent task needs three things:• A clear start• A clear work
182. Teacher Prep - Why You May Already Have Everything You Need
Special Educators Summer Series Week 3 - What You Actually Need to Build the Tasks. We're in the TASKS Framework. Last week was the T — Think it through — and your homework was three priority skills written down before you searched for a single material. Today is the A. Access your materials.Be sure to follow along the teacher summer series at Positively Learning on YouTube: https://youtu.be/
181. Teacher Planning Made Easy: Start With the Skill, Not the Activity
Most teachers build independent work by finding things that look good. This episode is about doing it the other way around — starting with the skills your students actually need, before you open TPT or search for a single material.This is the T in the TASKS Framework: Think it through.In this episode:Why starting with activities instead of skills is what keeps independent work from ever really sti
180. Special Educators Summer Series Week One!
If independent work keeps falling apart in your classroom, this episode is for you.Many special educators assume they need better activities, more task boxes, or more resources.But most independent work problems aren't actually material problems.They're system problems.In this episode, we're kicking off the Special Educators Summer Series by looking at where independent work usually
179. Special Education Classroom This or That (End-of-Year Edition)
End-of-Year Classroom This or ThatToday’s episode is a lighter end-of-year conversation all about classroom “this or that” choices in special education classrooms.We’re walking through a few end-of-year teacher opinions, routines, and classroom decisions that can either make this season feel calmer… or accidentally make it harder.Inside this episode:🟡 Teacher-led classroom pack-up vs. students hel
178. What Is Your Classroom Telling You Before Summer?
The end of the school year reveals a lot about how a classroom is really functioning.In this episode, we’re talking about what late May behavior, routines, and classroom energy might actually be telling you — especially in special education classrooms where so much depends on structure and predictability.Inside this episode:🟡 Why some routines are still working (even when everyone is tired)🟡 What
177. What 4 Years of Task Box Club Taught Me (+ a BIG giveaway!)
This month, Task Box Club turns 4 years old 🎂In this episode, I’m reflecting on:how the club startedwhat independent work looked like in my classroom years agothe evolution of the club over the last 4 yearsfunny and nostalgic moments along the wayand the biggest lessons teachers have taught me about building more independent classrooms.We’re also celebrating all week long inside Task Box Club with
176. When Teaching Feels Unsustainable: Should You Stay or Go?
This time of year, a lot of educators quietly start asking themselves:👉 Can I do this again next year? 👉 And do I want to do it here?In this episode, we’re talking about the difference between teaching being hard (because it is) and a school environment being unhealthy.We cover: ✔ what healthy schools actually prioritize ✔ why constant blame changes everything ✔ the difference between hard work an
175. What I’d Buy for a Special Ed Classroom With $100, $250, $500, or $1000
If you had end-of-year budget money for your classroom… what would actually be worth buying?In this episode, I’m sharing: ✔ what I’d prioritize at different budget levels ✔ what purchases truly support independence ✔ and the systems that save the most teacher energy long-term.Because the best classroom purchases aren’t always the cutest — they’re the ones that make your entire year easier. 📦 Explo
174. Free Task Box Ideas to Help Students Work Independently
Planning independent work doesn’t have to feel like starting from scratch every week.In this episode, I’m sharing how to actually use a bank of task box ideas so planning feels faster and students can work more independently.We’ll talk about: ✔ what makes a task truly “independent” ✔ how to choose tasks that actually work ✔ and how to stop overthinking your weekly planning👉 Grab the 101 Task Box I
173. Is Task Completion Actually a Problem?
Is task completion actually hurting student learning?In this episode, we’re clearing up a common misunderstanding: 🟡 what “task completion” really means 🟡 why it’s not the same as compliance 🟡 and how independent work builds real-life skillsBecause when students can start, stay, and finish a task on their own… that’s not busy work — that’s independence.If you're a busy special education teach
172. AI and IEPs: Let’s Talk About What’s Actually Happening
AI is helping teachers write IEPs faster than ever.But… are we still fully behind what we’re writing?In this episode, we’re unpacking: ✔ where AI helps ✔ where to pause ✔ and how to stay grounded in your professional judgmentBecause faster isn’t always the same as better.If you're a busy special education teacher looking for tips, tricks, and resources to save you precious time, I've got
171. IEP Goals That Look Good on Paper, But Aren't Actually Useful
Ever feel like some IEP goals look good on paper… but don’t actually get used?You’re not alone.In this episode, we’re talking about why that happens, how it shows up, and what it looks like to write goals that actually connect to your day-to-day teaching.Because IEP goals should support your students — not just check a box.If you're a busy special education teacher looking for tips, tricks, a
170. Why Nothing You Try Is Fully Working in Your Classroom (Yet)
If you feel like you’ve tried everything—different activities, centers, task boxes—but your classroom still isn’t running smoothly, you’re not alone.The issue usually isn’t the materials.It’s that everything is working in pieces, but not as a complete system.When independent work isn’t built on a consistent structure, students rely on the teacher to explain, restart, and guide every step. That’s w
169. How I Plan a Week of Independent Work in 30 Minutes (Yes, Really)
How long should independent work planning take?For many special educators, it can easily take 2–3 hours every week. But with the right system, it doesn’t have to.In this episode, I share the simple routine I use to plan an entire week of independent work in about 30 minutes using task boxes.You'll learn:• how to align independent work with IEP goals • why predictable task systems increase ind
168. Real Stories from the Parts of Teaching We Don’t Talk About
Teaching isn’t just lesson plans and instruction.In this episode, you’ll hear several real classroom stories about the moments when advocating for students meant speaking up, pushing back, and navigating decisions that weren’t always easy.From curriculum expectations to IEP decisions, this conversation explores a side of teaching that many educators weren’t prepared for—but know all too well.If yo
167. Stop Repeating Yourself All Day | Independent Work for Special Education
If you feel like you’re powering your entire classroom all day, this episode is for you.We’re building on last week’s bottleneck conversation and focusing on something even more practical: reducing the number of moments your students need you to activate their work.Inside this episode: 🟡 How to reduce “start” fatigue 🟡 Simple ways to build obvious finishes 🟡 What to change so students stop waiting
166. The Hidden Bottlenecks in Special Education Classrooms
If your classroom feels harder than it should, it might not be behavior — it might be a bottleneck.In this episode of Special Educators Resource Room, we’re uncovering the hidden slow-downs that quietly drain your time, energy, and momentum.You’ll learn about four common classroom bottlenecks and how to quickly resolve them. Instead of adding more strategies, we’re going to widen the bottleneck.
165. Your Caseload Grew. Your Data Plan Didn’t.
Your caseload increased… but your data system stayed the same.In this episode of Special Educators Resource Room, we’re talking about the silent mismatch that leads to data overwhelm — and how to recalibrate your plan without working longer hours.You’ll learn: 🟡 Why your data routine may feel heavier midyear 🟡 How to adjust frequency without lowering standards 🟡 A simple way to rebuild a system th
164. Feeling the Midyear Slide? Here’s Your Special Educator Reset
Is your classroom system suddenly… not working? You’re not alone.In this episode of Special Educators Resource Room, we’re talking about the midyear mess—why it happens, how it sneaks up on even the most organized teachers, and what you can do right now to reset without burning out.You’ll hear:3 realistic ways to refresh your routinesA mindset shift that changes everythingWhy maintenance > over
163. AI for Special Educators: What’s Helping in 2026
Wondering if AI can actually lighten your load this school year?In this episode of Special Educators Resource Room, we’re skipping the buzzwords and talking real strategies:🟡 Where AI actually helps in special education🟡 What to ignore (with zero guilt)🟡 How to protect your energy—without tech overwhelmNo hype. Just special education support that makes sense. 💛If you're a busy special educati
162. The Big Task Box Party Dream (Yes, I'm Serious)
Ever wish you could gather with other teachers, fire up the laminators, and walk away with a fully prepped task box system? In this episode, I’m sharing a behind-the-scenes dream I can’t shake—and what it says about how much support we really need as educators.🟡 A fun (and slightly over-the-top) vision for a task box workshop🟡 Why dreaming big isn’t silly—it’s strategic🟡 What’s coming soon to make
161. When You’re Overstimulated and Out of Energy: A Survival Guide for Teachers
Some days, teaching feels like too much—too loud, too fast, and too demanding. And when you’re overstimulated and out of energy, you don’t need another “do more” solution… you need something that helps you get through the day.In this episode, Jennifer shares real, practical strategies she used on the hardest teaching days—especially when it was only Tuesday and quitting wasn’t an option. These ide
160. Special Educator POV: You Just Inherited a Stack of IEPs
Stepping into a new classroom or absorbing a fresh batch of students midyear? If your caseload feels more like chaos—overdue IEPs, missing data, and a sea of goals you didn’t write—you’re not alone.In this episode of the Special Educators Resource Room, we’re breaking down what to do when you inherit a mess. 💥If you're a busy special education teacher looking for tips, tricks, and resources t
159. The Real Reason Independent Work Feels So Hard (and What to Do Instead)
If independent work feels like more work—you’re not alone. In this episode, we're breaking down the real reasons why independent work systems often fall apart (especially in self-contained classrooms)... and what to do instead.You’ll learn: ✔ Why task box burnout happens ✔ What most systems are missing ✔ A simple 4-week approach to build trust and routines ✔ How to stop chasing perfection and
158. Top 3 Tasks? Teachers Spilled the Tea 🍵
Welcome to the first episode of 2026—and a gentle nudge into the new year.This isn’t a list of flashy favorites. It’s a conversation about what’s actually helping students build independence—and how you’re making it happen, one small win at a time.In this episode, I’m sharing what real educators (just like you) are leaning on in their classrooms—from foundational tools like WH questions to some qu
Task Box Giveaway! Pick Your 3 + Win Your Starter Kit 🎁
Want to finally start your task box system—without the stress? This giveaway is for YOU.In this quick episode, I’m sharing how to enter the Task Box Starter Kit Giveaway—and what you’ll win if your name gets drawn!Here’s what’s included in the prize:🎁 16-count rainbow task box storage set🎁Cardstock + laminating sheets to get prepped fast🎁 BONUS: I’ll email you the 3 task boxes you pick from the li
157. Looking Back to Move Forward: A Year of Systems, Surprises, and Survival for Special Educators
Ready to reset for the new year—but feeling like the last one ran you over?In this special end-of-year episode of the Special Educators Resource Room podcast, I’m sharing a personal behind-the-scenes look at what really happened in 2025—and how I used simple organizational systems to survive some of the most overwhelming seasons of my life.From medical emergencies and tech chaos to travel, moving,
156. Inbox Boundaries Every Special Educator Deserves
Is your inbox starting to feel like a stress trap? 😬 You’re not alone—and you’re not doing anything wrong.In this episode, I’m sharing a personal story about how I started to dread my own inbox (even while running a membership I love), and what I did to turn things around.Inside this episode:Why some emails hit harder than othersWhat you can do when your inbox feels heavyHow to take proactive step
155. Why I Stopped Doing Themes (and what you can do instead)
Theme weeks can be fun—but what if they’re also burning you out? In this episode, I’m walking you through the moment I decided to stop planning my entire week around pumpkins, apples, or snowflakes… and what I did instead to keep students progressing and save my sanity.Inside this episode: ✔ Why theme overload happens ✔ The systems to use instead of seasonal overhauls ✔ A realistic way to sprinkle
154. Should Students Be Working on the Same Goals or Tasks Every Week?
Is it okay to keep the same tasks in your independent work system week after week?Short answer? YES. Until it’s a no. 😅In this episode of the Special Educators Resource Room, we’re digging into why repetition is powerful—and when it quietly slides into busywork.🎧 You’ll learn:The green flags for repeating tasks (yes, on purpose!)The subtle signs your system needs a refreshA teacher-friendly trick
153. That Time Progress Monitoring Made Me Cry
This one’s different.In this raw and real episode, I’m sharing a moment I haven’t talked about before—a Thursday afternoon (or was it a Tuesday?) when the empty data binders, overdue progress reports, and sheer weight of teacher overwhelm broke me.💔 Spoiler alert: I cried over progress monitoring.But that breakdown led to a breakthrough—and a new system that changed everything. If you’ve ever aske
152. Taming the Special Ed Paperwork Monster
That paper stack on your desk? It’s not your imagination—it really is multiplying.In this spooky Halloween episode, I’m sharing how I handle the paperwork before it becomes overwhelming. From what I actually keep (and what I confidently toss) to the simple folder system that saves my sanity, you’ll learn how to tame the paper pile without needing to become a color-coded superhero. I’ll also walk y
151. IEP Work Bins: Let's Build One Together!
Ever feel like IEP implementation is a full-time job… on top of your *actual* full-time job?In this episode, I’m breaking down my go-to system for staying on top of IEP goals without reinventing the wheel. It’s called the "IEP Work Bin"—and once you’ve got one set up, you’ll wonder how you ever managed without it.We’ll cover:* What to include in a student’s work bin* How to set one up ev
150. Real Talk: Training Paraprofessionals on the Clock
What happens when you're expected to train your paraprofessional team... but you're not given any time to actually do it?In this episode, we're keeping it real with practical tips for special educators who are trying to lead a team while managing everything else.Whether you're brand-new to managing paras or have been doing it for years, you’ll find helpful ideas you can start u
149. Special Ed Survival Mode: Resetting When You’re Feeling Behind
Tired of feeling like you’re already behind by October? You’re not alone. The truth is, you’re not behind because you’re doing something wrong—you’re behind because there’s that much on your plate.In this episode of Special Educators Resource Room, I’ll help you reset, cut through the noise, and make a plan you can actually follow.You’ll learn: ✅ Why October feels like the tipping point for so man
148. The 2-Minute Shortcut to Finding the Right Student Tasks
Tired of spending hours hunting for the right student tasks? In this episode of Special Educators Resource Room, I’ll show you how to cut through the overwhelm and find exactly what your students need — in just a couple of minutes. Think of it as your shortcut to less stress and more learning. This episode is extra special because it also has a video walkthrough version!You can following along on
147. Let's Differentiate a General Education Lesson Together
How I’d differentiate a scripted math lesson Math Lesson - without doing more work: Eureka Math is a strong curriculum—but not every lesson is a perfect fit for your students. In this episode, I walk through exactly how I’d differentiate a 1st grade Eureka Math lesson (Module 1, Lesson 30) without adding more to your plate. You’ll hear how I’d:* Preteach key skills before the lesson* Simplify whol
146. Stepping Into a Small School with Big Habits: Special Educators POV
Ever walk into a school that feels more like a family reunion than a functioning team? You’re not alone.In this episode, I’m answering a real question from a high school special ed teacher trying to reset routines in a small school with *very established habits*—and a para who’s been running the show.We’ll talk about:* Why change is so hard in tight-knit school communities* How to observe systems
145. Planning an Inclusion Lesson? Start Here
Planning for inclusion doesn’t have to mean creating a whole second lesson—or carrying the entire differentiation load by yourself. In this episode, I’m sharing three practical moves I use to make inclusion work without the overwhelm. Whether you’ve got five minutes to prep or five co-teachers to coordinate with, these strategies will help you focus on what matters most for your student. We’ll tal
144. What If You’re the Only One Who Cares About Inclusion?
In this episode, we're tackling one of the most frustrating realities in special education: when inclusion feels like a solo mission. I’m walking you through small, strategic ways to keep making progress—even when no one else seems to notice or care. We’ll talk about what’s really behind the resistance, how to build systems that speak for you, and why protecting your energy isn’t giving up—it
143. The IEP Meeting That Went Sideways: What to do next
If you’ve ever walked out of an IEP meeting thinking, “What just happened?”—you’re not alone.In this episode, I’m diving into what really causes meetings to go sideways—and how you can recover when they do. From unexpected conflict to missed cues and last-minute surprises, I’ll share what I’ve learned the hard way (so you don’t have to).We’ll walk through simple ways to prevent future breakdowns,
142. Paraprofessionals Interrupting During Lessons? Let’s fix that
"Paraprofessionals are distracting students by interrupting during lessons. What should I do?" - a frustrated special educatorThis episode breaks down the most common reasons paras step in at the wrong moments and how to address it without micromanaging or creating awkward tension.You'll learn how to set clear expectations, create collaborative feedback loops, and plan quiet support
141. A Week in My Planning Brain: Special Educators Edition
If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by everything you could be doing to prep for the week ahead, this episode is here to offer some much-needed clarity. I’m breaking down my planning rhythm by day—from prepping para support on Mondays to catching up and resetting on Fridays. It’s not about being perfect. It’s about finding a routine that keeps you (and your classroom) running smoothly. You’ll walk awa
140. Back-to-School Edition – Real Answers to Real Teacher Questions
Back-to-school season brings excitement… and overwhelm. In this episode, I’m answering five real questions from special educators about what actually matters during those first few weeks. From what to prioritize in Week 1, to how to support (and redirect) a para, to what to do when you feel completely behind—this Q&A is all about practical advice and a little perspective. If you're feelin
139. What I Wished I Had Prepped Before the New School Year
Back-to-school prep doesn’t have to mean laminating late into the night. In this episode, I’m breaking down what I really wish I had prepped before the school year began—things that made a lasting impact on student independence and classroom flow (and saved my sanity). Spoiler: it's not about perfection, it's about purpose.We’ll walk through the four key areas I focus on now: evergreen t
138. Five Minute End of Day Reset for Teachers
When the school day ends, it’s tempting to bolt out the door the second your last student leaves. But what if five intentional minutes could make tomorrow go smoother?In this episode, I’m sharing the Five-Minute Reset—an end-of-day habit that helps special educators walk into a calm, prepared classroom. I break down exactly what I reset (and why), how I make the habit stick, and how you can involv
137. 3 Mistakes to Avoid when Setting Up Routines (& How to Fix Them)
If your independent work routine is starting to feel more frustrating than functional, you’re not alone. In this episode, I’m sharing the three most common mistakes I see with independent work systems—and more importantly, how to fix them without tossing your whole setup.If you’re looking for sustainable routines that actually support your students and your teaching, you’re in the right place. Wan
136. Binders, Baskets, or Bins? Organizing Your Classroom
Are your classroom materials taking over? If you're tired of digging through bins or wondering where to put your ever-growing task card collection, this episode is for you.In Episode 136 of the Special Educators Resource Room podcast, I’m breaking down the PROS and CONS of binders, baskets, and bins—plus how to use each one with intention to support student independence and teacher sanity. Yo
BONUS: Your Teacher Summer Break isn't a Syllabus
Everywhere you turn, there’s another summit, webinar, or workshop calling your name. ✋ While professional development can be powerful, your summer break doesn’t have to become one big to-do list. In this bonus episode, I’m sharing a heartfelt reminder that your time off isn’t a syllabus—and how to make space for rest and growth without the overwhelm.We’ll talk about:Why it’s okay (and necessary) t
135. Classroom Color-Coding Yay or Nay?
Color-coded bins. Rainbow task boxes. Laminated schedules with pastel tabs. We’ve seen it all… but does it actually help?In this episode of the Special Educators Resource Room Podcast we’re cutting through the color-coded chaos. I’m sharing the real reason I use color coding in my classroom (hint: it has nothing to do with aesthetics). You’ll hear how I use stickers behind the scenes to keep track
134. Setting Up a New Special Education Classroom or Space
If you're a busy special education teacher looking for tips, tricks, and resources to save you precious time, I've got you covered! I'm here to help you regain your confidence in the classroom and feel calm and collected as a special educator.Tune in every Friday for practical tips, tools, and the support you need to to THRIVE in the classroom.Grab your FREE Special Educators Cheat
133. When Routines Go Sideways: A Special Educator's Reboot
You’ve prepped the tasks, taught the routine, and set up the system… so why does it suddenly feel like your independent work time is falling apart?In this episode, I’m walking you through what to do when your once-reliable routine starts unraveling. From students checking out to paras feeling unsure—this is a real-talk guide to getting things back on track without starting over from scratch.Be sur
132. How to Introduce Routines Without Chaos (or Resistance)
Ready to launch task boxes—or troubleshoot your current setup? This episode walks you through exactly how to introduce task boxes with structure and intention, whether you’re planning ahead for a fresh school year or starting the second week of June. Learn how to build success from Day 1 without overwhelm or pushback.Be sure to grab this free student visual checklist to use when introducing routin
131. One Binder System That’s Actually Worth the Setup
Not all binder systems are worth your time—but this one is. In this episode, I’m walking you through the only binder system I keep coming back to year after year: the Student Work Binder. Learn how to set it up, keep it running with minimal effort, and use it to support student independence, para support, and smoother daily routines.You’ll learn: ✔️ What to include (and what to skip) ✔️ How to per
130. When You Have NO Time for Progress Monitoring
Progress monitoring doesn’t have to be complicated—or exhausting. In this episode, we’re talking about practical ways to track student growth when your time and energy are already stretched thin. Learn how to shift your mindset, simplify your systems, and start small—without sacrificing the quality of your data.In this episode: ✔ Why “useful” data matters more than “perfect” data ✔ A one-student-p
129. The Simple Time-Saving Shift Every Special Educator Needs
If you're a busy special education teacher looking for tips, tricks, and resources to save you precious time, I've got you covered! I'm here to help you regain your confidence in the classroom and feel calm and collected as a special educator.Tune in every Friday for practical tips, tools, and the support you need to to THRIVE in the classroom.Grab your FREE Special Educators Cheat
128. One Task You Can Take Off Your Special Educator Plate Today
Delegating tasks in the special education classroom isn't a luxury but a necessity for teacher sustainability and effective classroom management. This episode is a must-listen if you often think "it's faster if I just do it myself!"If you're ready to start delegating but need help setting clear expectations, check out our Paraprofessional Training and Expectations Manual.
127. The Five-Minute IEP File Audit
The Five-Minute IEP File Audit is a simple system that helps special educators keep IEP documentation up-to-date and organized without requiring hours of work or causing stress spirals. This mini routine can be completed in just five minutes per student folder, providing a proactive approach to paperwork management rather than last-minute scrambling.Visit positivelylearningblog.com for the free do
126. Rethinking End of Year Celebrations: Spotlighting Real Progress
End-of-year awards season is here—but what about the students whose biggest wins don’t show up on a checklist?In this episode, we’re flipping the script and talking about creative, meaningful ways to celebrate real student growth—even when it doesn’t come with a certificate or percentage score.You’ll hear:What counts as “progress” (spoiler: it’s more than grades)Low-prep, high-impact ideas for cel
125. Time Hacks for Special Ed Teachers
There’s never enough time in the day—you already know that. This episode is packed with practical strategies to help you use your time more intentionally, without staying late or bringing work home.We’ll cover:How to stop relying on overwhelming to-do listsWays to block time and build micro-habitsRoutines that make planning more efficientGentle boundaries that protect your energy✅ Don’t miss Episo
124. The Special Ed Assembly Line: Paperwork Batching Tips
Quarter Four doesn’t mess around. Between progress reports, IEP updates, and fileaudits, it can feel like the paperwork never ends.In this episode, I’m sharing how batching your paperwork tasks can help you stay focused, save time, and (maybe) even enjoy that last week of school a little more. We’ll walk through what batching really is, how to make it work with your schedule, and the pros and cons
123. What If Progress Monitoring Took Less Than a Minute a Day?
Let’s talk data—but keep it simple. 💛In this episode, I’m sharing three quick ways to track student progress without adding stress or paperwork to your day. No fancy spreadsheets required—just practical ideas you can actually use.You’ll hear how to:Use simple checklists you can grab and goSnap quick photos for visual documentationJot down observations you’re already noticingPlus, I’ll show you how
122. Spring Cleaning for Special Educators (Quarter 4 Survival Tips)
It’s time for a fresh start—but not just for your closet. In this episode of the Special Educators Resource Room, we’re doing a little spring cleaning for your teaching systems!I'm tackling frequently asked questions from educators like you! Whether you’re just getting started or ready to shake off the winter blahs, this episode will give you practical steps—and a little peace of mind—as you
121. 10 Things Paraprofessionals Need to Hear From Us
They show up early, stay late, and hold the classroom together when everything feels like it’s falling apart—our paraprofessionals are true superheroes.In this heartfelt episode, I’m sharing 10 things every paraprofessional deserves to hear—but may not get to hear often enough. These simple yet powerful affirmations go beyond the typical “thank you” and help build the trust and appreciation our te
120. Decision Fatigue: Why Less Is More (For You AND Your Students!)
Ever feel completely drained after making way too many decisions in a day? You’re not alone. Decision fatigue is real, and it’s affecting you, your students, and your teaching.Here's what you'll learn:✅ What decision fatigue is and how it shows up in teaching and everyday life✅ Why having too many choices isn’t always a good thing (yes, even when it comes to teaching resources!)✅ Practic
119. Spice Up Your Small Groups (without overstimulating everyone!)
Feeling stuck in a small group slump? If your students are zoning out, constantly needing redirection, or just going through the motions, it might be time to shake things up!In this episode, we’re diving into simple, high-energy strategies to keep small groups engaging and effective—without turning your classroom into chaos. Because let’s be real—we need structure AND excitement, not a three-ring
118. Want a Better Independent Work System? Grab This Free Playbook!
Is independent work in your classroom actually working? Or does it feel more like a constant cycle of redirection, confusion, and prep overload?In this episode, I’m breaking down a simple, three-part system to help students work independently without constant interruptions. Plus, I’m offering you a FREE Teach & Task Playbook with three low-prep activities to help you get started today! 🎉🚀 What
117. Social Stories 101: How to Write, Use, and Make Them Work
Social stories can make a big difference in helping students navigate routines, social expectations, and behavior challenges. But how do you make sure they actually work?In today’s episode, I’m breaking down:✅ What social stories are (and how Carol Gray developed them)✅ Real-life examples of social stories for different student needs✅ When to introduce a social story (so it’s helpful, not just rea
116. When an IEP Isn’t the Answer: Supporting Gen Ed Teachers with Behavior Challenges
Ever had a general education teacher refer a student for an IEP, hoping for a classroom aide or a removal—but deep down, you knew that wasn’t likely to happen? 🙋♀️In this episode, I’m sharing a real-life scenario where a gen ed teacher was struggling with a student’s behavior and looking for a quick fix. Instead of just saying “no” to the IEP request, I took a proactive approach to support BOTH t
115. Oops, You’re Over-Prompting! Let’s Fix That
Oops, you might be over-prompting! Let's fix that. Ever feel like your students could do more on their own—if only they weren’t so used to getting help? You’re not alone! In this episode, we’re diving into the prompt hierarchy and how using it the right way (and training paraprofessionals to do the same) can increase student independence instead of creating dependence on adult support.🔹 What
114. Data, But Make It Easy: Paraprofessionals and Progress Monitoring
Data collection doesn’t have to be overwhelming—especially for paraprofessionals! In this episode, I’m breaking down simple, stress-free ways for paras to help track student progress without extra work. Learn how to make data collection quick, seamless, and part of the independent work routine using checklists, sticky notes, and even photos.If you’ve ever struggled with getting consistent progress
113. The Time-Saving Tool for Special Educators You Didn’t Know You Needed
Templates have always been a game-changer for special educators, but what if there’s a way to take them even further? In this episode, we explore the next level of time-saving tools: custom AI. You’ll learn how templates and AI work together to save you time, reduce stress, and make recurring tasks like IEPs and progress reports feel easier. Plus, we’ll cover practical tips for getting started and
112. Teaching Life Skills Without Adding More to Your Plate
Life Skills 101: This episode breaks down everything you need to know about teaching life skills in a way that fits into your busy day. Learn what life skills really are, why they’re essential for student growth, and how to weave them into your daily routines without adding extra work.Ready for practical strategies you can put into place TODAY? What You’ll Learn in This Episode:The five key catego
111. The Art of Saying No: Setting Boundaries as a Special Educator
Feeling burned out from saying “yes” to everything? In this episode, I’m diving into the art of setting boundaries and why saying “no” isn’t just okay—it’s essential. From managing requests from admin and parents to dealing with guilt and staying in control of your workload, we’ll explore practical strategies that will help you protect your energy and focus on what truly matters.What You’ll Learn:
110. The Truth About Data Collection (And Why You’re Doing Too Much)
Data collection doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. In this episode, I’m getting real about the struggles of tracking all the things and why most of us are doing way too much. You’ll learn how to streamline your data collection process, focus on what matters, and use tools like independent work systems to simplify your life.What You’ll Learn:Why more data doesn’t equal better teaching.Simple strate
109. New Year, New Systems: Let's Build Independent Learners!
Happy New Year! 🎉 In this episode, we’re diving into one of the most impactful changes you can make for your classroom in 2025: setting up an independent work system that actually works. Whether you’re new to task boxes or looking to refine your current setup, I’ll walk you through the essentials to save time, reduce chaos, and help your students thrive independently.Plus, I’m sharing a free, on-d
108. One Last Surprise for 2024—Your Glow-Up Awaits!
🎉 Surprise! I’m popping in real quick with exciting news—it's GIVEAWAY time!You could win Lifetime Membership to the Complete Independent Work System—your ultimate tool for creating a calm, independent, and thriving classroom in 2025. This giveaway prize is valued at $240 per year and includes:✅ Task boxes, work binders, and file folders.✅ Time-saving tools to set up your independent work sys
107. Teacher Goal Setting: Yay or Nay?
This week's podcast episode is for you if 1) you're unsure how to set goals that actually stick and 2) you're unsure if you even want to set goals for 2025.Ep 107 Teacher Goal Setting Yay or Nay?There's a free download that will help you organize your new and improved goals for the new year! Find it in Positively Learning's Free Resource Library (plus a TON of other teache
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