from Dr. Kristie Pretti-Frontczak
& dr. Julie Causton
The Inclusion Blog
What Makes a Goal IEP-Worthy? A Step-by-Step Breakdown
Creating an IEP (Individualized Education Program) goal isn't just about identifying a student's needs; it's about determining which of those needs are truly IEP worthy. In this post, we'll dive into a case study about typing skills for a third grader and explore...
Rethinking SMART Goals for IEPs: Ensuring Effective and Inclusive Education
As educators and educational leaders, we’ve all heard about SMART goals, right? These goals, designed to be Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound, have been a staple in education for years. They promise a structured approach to goal-setting,...
The Hidden Cost of Relying Too Much on Paras
When school administrators hear the phrase, "We just need one more paraprofessional," it's usually coming from a good place. Teachers want to give students the best support possible, and adding another para could be the solution. However, as Dr. Kristie...
5 Must-Try Strategies for a More Inclusive Classroom
Creating an inclusive classroom where every student feels supported, empowered, and valued is no small feat. Whether you're a seasoned educator or just starting out, you know that the challenges are real—but so are the rewards. There are five essential strategies...
IEPs Made Simple: Objectives, Benchmarks, and Everything in Between
When it comes to crafting Individualized Education Plans (IEPs), one common question that arises is the difference between an objective and a benchmark. It might sound simple, but there's a blend of art and science in understanding these terms. Since the...
Magic Phrases to Revolutionize Your Meetings
Meetings are an essential part of any educational environment, especially for inclusive educators and administrators. They provide a platform for collaboration, problem-solving, and decision-making. However, without the right communication strategies, meetings can...
INCLUSIVE EDUCATION MEANS
we no longer accept that separate classrooms, separate schools, and separate lives are in the best interest of any student. Separating people by ability disadvantages everyone. Belonging is a human need. Our educational system, practices, and spaces, need to be reimagined.
INCLUSIVE EDUCATION MEANS
every student is valued because of their strengths, gifts, and even challenges. As disability is simply… diversity. Everyone benefits from meaningful participation and opportunities to learn grade level content with diverse peers. We must trust that all students come to us as incredible whole people who do not need to be fixed.