Specially Designed Instruction in the Heart and Soul of Special Education. For more information on this topic check out these great resources from the United Federation of Teachers (UFT) at:  https://www.uft.org/teaching/students-disabilities/specially-designed-instruction

Also if you are interested in observing/peer observing/auditing your instruction for ongoing professional development purposes - here is a quick tool an observer can use to look for the core elements of SDI during instruction:

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1nCD1Ll2XfX9OfHPX8fYe_bpdnZpNX5BYolCS0e28Uek/edit?usp=sharing

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Here are some additional resources related to invisible disabilities:

https://invisibledisabilities.org/about/aboutida/

https://www.disabled-world.com/disability/types/invisible/

https://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/docs/hq5269.html

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In this podcast, Robin and Abby talk about the instructional strategy of Universal Design for Learning.  You can learn more at :

CAST - Located near Boston, CAST is a nonprofit education research and development organization that created the Universal Design for Learning framework and UDL Guidelines, now used the world over to make learning more inclusive.

The acronym "CAST" derives from the original name of our organization, Center for Applied Special Technology. Now we're simply CAST.

Our CAST of characters includes over 50 talented employees, including world-class educators, learning scientists, instructional designers, literacy experts, policy analysts, UX and graphic designers, software engineers, and a first-rate administrative and executive staff.

CAST | Until learning has no limits®

Alex Trusdell- founder of Adaptive Design Association, NYC
"Our purpose is to instigate a revolutionary shift, one where we reject barriers and segregation and choose instead to imagine and build custom adaptations; where we share designs and stories; and where we respond to difference and disability, not with fear or neglect, but with solidarity and love.”

Temple Israel's supercool ramp (it looks better than the stairs, we think!)

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Temple_Israel_(Boston)#/media/File:Temple_Israel_Boston.jpg

https://disabilitiesinclusion.org/exemplar-congregations/temple-israel/

And here's the definition of a "closer"....
In baseball, a closing pitcher, more frequently referred to as a closer (abbreviated CL), is a relief pitcher who specializes in getting the final outs in a close game when his team is leading. The role is often assigned to a team's best reliever.

That's it for this week folks!
Robin, Abby and Angela

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On this week's podcast, we interview Bill Kelly, dad of 5, 1 who has a complex disability. You'll hear his lens about navigating the special education world, while focusing on the "long game."

You can learn more about Bill's work at CAIA
The global professional body dedicated to alternative investments, seeking greater alignment, transparency, and knowledge for all investors. We are a member-driven organization representing professionals in more than 95 countries, and advocating for the industry through our events, publications, and credential programs.

He also mentioned two agencies that support(ed)  Max

The Charles River Center 
At the Charles River Center, we provide programs and services for over 950 children and adults focusing on:

• Employment Services
• Day Habilitation
• Residential Services
• Family Support

The Guild Human Services:
The Guild for Human Services offers a continuum of services for youth and adults with intellectual disabilities, including autism, and behavioral/mental health challenges.

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During this episode, Robin, Angela and Abby interview Laura Gillis, a parent side attorney. 

https://www.legillislaw.com/attorney/laura-gillis

To learn more about the trainings offered by the Federation for Children with Special Needs that was referenced in the podcast, go to: https://fcsn.org/

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MA General Laws Regarding School Discipline

The Big Three (the weapons and drugs are combined in section a - FYI) ....

"Notwithstanding any general or special law to the contrary, all student handbooks shall contain the following provisions:

(a) Any student who is found on school premises or at school-sponsored or school-related events, including athletic games, in possession of a dangerous weapon, including, but not limited to, a gun or a knife; or a controlled substance as defined in chapter ninety-four C, including, but not limited to, marijuana, cocaine, and heroin, may be subject to expulsion from the school or school district by the principal.

(b) Any student who assaults a principal, assistant principal, teacher, teacher's aide or other educational staff on school premises or at school-sponsored or school-related events, including athletic games, may be subject to expulsion from the school or school district by the principal."

Alternatives to Suspension (thanks to PBISworld.com for their references)

Why should I do it:

• Suspending kids is very unproductive for academics
• Some kids get suspended on purpose to get out of work or away from something they do not want to cope or deal with
• Suspensions are not an effective deterrent for many kids, who do not see it as a significant consequence or negative stimulus
• Providing alternatives to suspensions can be much more effective in getting students’ behavior to change
• There are many alternatives that motivate students better than suspending them

When should I do it:

• When a student gets into trouble and suspended frequently
• When a student is trying to get suspended on purpose or to get out of something
• When students really need the instruction but a consequence or discipline is warranted
• When suspensions do not seem to be doing anything and are ineffective

How do I do it:

• There are various alternatives to suspension and ways to carry them out.
• Always use a neutral tone and do not allow yourself to be drawn into power struggles.
• Alternatives may be discussed with a student or students before implementing them
• Some common alternatives include:
  • in-school suspension
  • school service (for example, assisting custodial staff with after school clean-up, lunch clean-up, etc)
  • mini course
  • counseling
  • community service
  • restitution
  • problem solving or behavior contract
  • alternative programming
  • loss of privileges (like lunch, recess, social time, etc)
  • detention (before or after school)
  • mentoring (with a teacher, counselor, or other staff member before or after school)
  • behavioral contracts
  • referral to community mental health services

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Our gift to you, loyal podcast listener....

Your very own customizable Manifestation Determination Hearing worksheet.

May the force be with you and may you follow all the regulations.

Robin, Angela and Abby

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1i7FArJFEG4QgoKVsYFoTJs27TrTv7qB0/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=106323109347884729452&rtpof=true&sd=true

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Somerville Suspension case
https://www.bostonglobe.com/2021/05/25/metro/they-called-police-6-year-old-now-somerville-school-leaders-are-suspending-school-police-programs/

The Great Divide series - Boston Globe
https://www.bostonglobe.com/metro/education/k-12/education-project/?p1=Article_Inline_Related_Link

MADESE laws and regulations regarding Student Discipline
https://www.mass.gov/info-details/massachusetts-law-about-student-discipline

MGL c.71, § 37H  Schools must have policies about student discipline, and students must get a handbook that explains the rules. A student who brings a weapon or drugs to school, or assaults a staff member may be expelled.

MGL c.71, § 37H-1/2  If a student is charged with a felony, they may be suspended. If they are convicted of a felony, they may be expelled. The student can appeal the decision.

MGL c.71, § 37H-3/4  Rules for schools to follow if they suspend or expel a student for any other reason

MGL c.76, § 21  Helping a student who is suspended or expelled continue their education

Mahanoy Area School District v. B. L., 594 U.S. ___ , 141 S.Ct. 2038
While public schools may have a special interest in regulating some off-campus student speech, the special interests offered by the school are not sufficient to overcome B. L.’s interest in free expression in this case.

Doe v. Worcester Public Schools, 484 Mass. 598 (2020)
The school "superintendent lacked authority to delegate responsibility for hearing and deciding the appeal, given that the initial suspension exceeded ninety days and therefore constituted an expulsion."

Massachusetts school discipline laws & regulations by category, US Dept. of Education, March 31, 2021
"For each of the states or jurisdictions, discipline related laws and regulations are categorized by the type of specific discipline issue they address. Resources from government-sponsored websites and other sources are also included for each jurisdiction where available."

Parent guide to school discipline: when my child is disciplined at school: a guide for Massachusetts families, Appleseed Center, 2015.
Great information to help parents when their child has been disciplined at school. Explains some of the common consequences for misbehavior, from missing recess to expulsion. Includes a lot of information on appealing a school discipline decision.

Prot

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If you are interested in learning more about the book mentioned in this episode, you can find Chip Wood's great resource "Yardsticks" at: https://www.responsiveclassroom.org/product/yardsticks-4th-edition/

Curious to learn more about Early Intervention (EI) services in your State or Territory?
The CDC's website states that  EI:

• Is the term used to describe the services and supports that are available to babies and young children with developmental delays and disabilities and their families.
• May include speech therapy, physical therapy, and other types of services based on the needs of the child and family.
• Can have a significant impact on a child’s ability to learn new skills and overcome challenges and can increase success in school and life.
• Programs are available in every state and territory (see each program’s contact information). These publicly funded programs provide services for free or at reduced cost for any child who is eligible.

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Have you ever wondered what a BCBA is or about their role in schools?  BCBA stands for Board Certified Behavior Analyst and in this podcast, you'll learn about a BCBA's role on a school team and some of Kristin's top practical tips for teachers and parents. 

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