Accelerating Education

Accelerating Education

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Accelerating Education episodes

  • How AI is Fixing Special Ed IEPs (and Saving Teachers Hours) ft. Dr. Paul McDonald

    How AI is Fixing Special Ed IEPs (and Saving Teachers Hours) ft. Dr. Paul McDonald

    Accelerating Education Podcast
    Paul McDonald, Ed.D.
    Education Consultant
    with host Richard Capone
    Episode P2E4, July 16, 2026

    Summary:

    Tired of endless IEP paperwork taking over your week? In this episode, 35-year education veteran Dr. Paul McDonald reveals how combining diagnostic data with smart AI tools is revolutionizing special education. Learn how one Nevada school district successfully cut documentation time, guaranteed rock-solid compliance, and created personalized learning plans that actually boost student achievement. Whether you're a special educator, school administrator, or EdTech leader, discover how to leverage AI as a powerful assistant—giving teachers their time back so they can focus on what matters most: empowering students.

    Key Topics:

    —The shift from compliance focus to quality instructional data in IEP development
    —The significance of diagnostic assessments versus traditional grade-level data
    —How district staff with varied backgrounds, including new teachers and ESL educators, implement AI tools
    —Using AI loosely to support writing clear, individualized present levels for IEPs
    —Customizing AI prompts and checklists based on federal, state, and district regulations
    —The role of ongoing professional development in adapting to AI-supported systems
    —Developing an AI-powered compliance checklist that integrates with existing IEP forms
    —Strategies for district-level implementation, approval workflows, and quality control
    —Future directions: AI-driven IEP review and potential for reducing legal and procedural errors
    —The importance of trusting data-driven processes and maintaining individualization in special education

    Chapters:

    00:00 - Introduction to AI in IEP Development
    02:25 - Diagnostic Data vs. Traditional Assessments
    04:19 - How to Write IEP "Present Levels" Using AI
    07:06 - Automating Goal Setting & Data Interpretation
    08:29 - Built-In Compliance: Custom AI Checklists
    13:34 - Slashing Paperwork & Reclaiming Teacher Time
    14:34 - Addressing AI Concerns & Preserving Individualization
    18:15 - Automated Compliance & Quality Assurance Tools
    25:45 - Legal Safety, Privacy, & De-Identification Processes
    30:35 - The Future of AI & Equity in Special Education

    #SpecialEducation #SPED #TeacherBurnout #IEP #EdTech #AIinEducation #TeacherEmpowerment #SpecialEdTeacher #LetsGoLearn

    Sponsored by Let's Go Learn https://www.letsgolearn.com

    32 min
  • The Future of Special Ed: AI & Empowerment, with Chad Rummel

    The Future of Special Ed: AI & Empowerment, with Chad Rummel

    Accelerating Education Podcast 🎙️
    Chad Rummel, M.Ed, CAE
    Executive Director of Council for Exceptional Children (CEC)
    with host Richard Capone

    Episode P2E3, Apr 13, 2026

    Sponsored by Let's Go Learn https://www.letsgolearn.com

    About the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC)

    CEC (Council for Exceptional Children) - https://exceptionalchildren.org/
    Connect with the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC): The CEC is the largest professional organization in the world for special educators, offering 18 specialized divisions and chapters in nearly every state.

    Summary

    In this episode of Accelerating Education, Richard Capone interviews Chad Rummel, Executive Director of CEC, about re-imagining support for special education teachers, the role of AI, and the future of the industry. They discuss innovative tools like the Teacher Empowerment Toolkit, challenges in workload, and strategies to empower educators. As IEPs grow from 4 pages to nearly 30, the "compliance trap" is causing record-breaking burnout. Chad explains how the CEC is fighting back with the Teacher Empowerment Toolkit (TET)—a new CEC member benefit resource designed to slash administrative workload and put the focus back on student instruction.

    Key Topics

    — Support for special education teachers

    — The role of AI in education
    — The Teacher Empowerment Toolkit and technology modernization
    — Workload reduction and workload management
    — Future trends and leadership in special education

    Chapters

    0:00 - Introduction to Chad Rummel & CEC

    1:18 - Moving from Compliance to Empowerment
    1:58 - Launching the Teacher Empowerment Toolkit
    4:41 - The Role of AI in Special Education
    6:00 - AI in Special Education: Opportunities and Concerns
    7:54 - How Administrators Can Support Staff
    8:37 - Addressing Educator Shortages and Future Trajectories
    9:10 - Solving the Educator Shortage in the Next 5 Years
    11:51 - CEC's Evolving Leadership and Support for Teachers
    12:32 - A Message to Overwhelmed Teachers
    13:15 - How Do You Support Teachers Today?
    14:43 - Rapid Fire: The Future is Positive
    17:15 - The Importance of Supporting Teachers, Not Replacing Them
    17:43 - What Gives Chad the Most Hope Today?

    #SpecialEducation #SPED #TeacherBurnout #IEP #EdTech #AIinEducation #CEC #TeacherEmpowerment #SpecialEdTeacher #LetsGoLearn

    20 min
  • The "Closed" AI Model in Special Education, with Dr. Angie Balsley

    The "Closed" AI Model in Special Education, with Dr. Angie Balsley

    Accelerating Education Podcast 🎙️
    Guest: Angie Balsley, Ed.D.
    CEO of Unified Leadership
    UnifiedLeadership.org
    with host Richard Capone

    Episode P2E2, Feb 19, 2026

    Sponsored by Let's Go Learn https://www.letsgolearn.com

    Summary

    In this episode of Accelerating Education, Richard Capone interviews Dr. Angie Balsley, CEO of Unified Leadership, discussing her extensive background in special education and the challenges faced in the field. They explore the importance of relationships and systems in special education, the innovative FAPE Compass tool designed to assist educators, and the future of special education leadership. Dr. Balsley shares insights on the impact of AI in education and the positive feedback from districts using FAPE Compass.

    Takeaways

    — Dr. Balsley's background in special education is deeply personal and rooted in inclusive practices.

    — Strong relationships are foundational to effective special education leadership.
    — The educator shortage is a significant challenge in special education.
    — FAPE Compass is an AI tool designed to provide instant answers to special education questions.
    — The tool enhances legal literacy for educators in real-time.
    — FAPE Compass is tailored to district-specific needs and procedures.
    — AI can help reduce the cognitive load on special education directors.
    — Feedback from districts indicates increased confidence and efficiency with FAPE Compass.
    — The tool aims to empower staff, reducing the need for directors to attend every meeting.
    — The future of special education may see more streamlined systems through tools like FAPE Compass.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Dr. Angie Balsley

    01:06 Shaping Philosophy in Special Education
    02:54 Challenges in Special Education Systems
    04:35 Innovations in Special Education Leadership
    06:21 Introducing FAPE Compass
    10:00 The Future of FAPE Compass in Special Education
    12:32 Feedback and Success Stories from Districts

     

    #SpecialEducation, #LetsGoLearn, #AIinEducation, #EdTech, #FAPE

    15 min
  • Empathy and AI Innovation in Special Education with Angela Miller

    Accelerating Education Podcast 🎙️

    Angela Miller, Special Education Teacher, Case Manager, and SSD Coordinator
    Carlsbad Municipal School District, New Mexico
    with host Richard Capone

    Episode P2E1, Feb 19, 2026

    Sponsored by Let's Go Learn https://www.letsgolearn.com

    Stop letting paperwork lead to burnout! Discover how Angela Miller is using the Airma AI Assistant to revolutionize the IEP process and reclaim the "heart" of special education.

    In this episode of Accelerating Education, host Richard Capone interviews Angela Miller, a special education teacher, case manager, and SSD coordinator in the Carlsbad Municipal School District in New Mexico. Angela shares her powerful personal journey from being a student with a reading disability to becoming a "Jill of all trades" educator motivated by her own son's autism diagnosis.

    We explore the "solution-based" strategies Angela uses to drive student success, including the use of Airma AI, an innovative educational technology tool. She explains how AI in education allows her to create highly individualized education programs (IEP) and progress reports with fidelity, while maintaining data privacy and FERPA compliance.

    Whether you are interested in social emotional learning (SEL), effective professional learning communities (PLC), or how to combat teacher burnout, this conversation offers a roadmap for meeting the needs of the "whole child".

    Takeaways

    —Angela's personal experience with special education shaped her career.
    —Empathy is crucial in building rapport with students.
    —Teachers often face burnout due to lack of support and resources.
    —Collaboration among educators enhances student outcomes.
    —AI can be a powerful tool for personalized learning.
    —Professional development should focus on the whole child, not just academics.
    —Finding one's 'why' can help combat teacher burnout.
    —Data-driven decisions can improve educational practices.
    —Students should be involved in their own learning processes.
    —Education is a community effort, requiring collaboration and support.

    Chapters

    0:00 - Introduction to Angela Miller

    0:49 - Angela’s personal journey: From student to teacher

    1:42 - A mother’s motivation: Navigating an autism diagnosis

    3:56 - Combating teacher burnout with empathy and SEL

    7:19 - Collaboration: Building a bridge between SpEd and GenEd

    10:48 - How Airma AI is transforming IEPs and data collection

    12:04 - The Future of AI in Education

    14:38 - Addressing AI privacy and FERPA compliance

    17:15 - The future of AI: Giving students autonomy over their data

    19:59 - Words of wisdom for hardworking educators 


    Featured Resources

    Let's Go Learn: Diagnostic data platform for DORA (reading) and ADAM (math) assessments.

    Airma AI: The AI assistant helping teachers individualize instruction.


    #SpecialEducation, #LetsGoLearn, #AIinEducation, #EdTech

    22 min
  • Teaching Kindness Through Animal Welfare with Richard Verlander

    Teaching Kindness Through Animal Welfare with Richard Verlander

    Accelerating Education Podcast 🎙️
    Richard Verlander, Board Member
    Goochland Pet Lovers in Richmond, VA
    with host Richard Capone

    Episode P1E10, Oct 30, 2025

    Sponsored by Let's Go Learn https://www.letsgolearn.com

    Summary

    In this episode, Richard Capone interviews Richard Verlander, a founding board member of Goochland Pet Lovers, an animal shelter in Richmond, Virginia. They discuss the transformation of the shelter, the importance of kindness and empathy in education, and the innovative 'Teaching Kindness' initiative that integrates animal welfare into school curriculums. Verlander shares insights on building community partnerships and the impact of their programs on children's behavior and social skills. The conversation highlights the power of animals to unite people and foster positive change in society.

    Takeaways

    Richard Verlander shares his unexpected journey into animal welfare.

    Goochland Pet Lovers raised $1.5 million to improve their shelter.
    The 'Teaching Kindness' program uses animal welfare to teach empathy.
    Community partnerships are essential for program sustainability.
    The curriculum is designed to be repeatable and teachable.
    Animal welfare can help address bullying in schools.
    Volunteers play a crucial role in the success of the shelter.
    The program culminates in a visit to the animal shelter.
    Animals have a unique ability to unite diverse groups of people.
    There is a need for more positive stories in the media.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Goochland Pet Lovers

    02:57 The Journey of Transformation
    05:58 Teaching Kindness: A New Initiative
    09:02 Building Community Partnerships
    11:52 Curriculum Development and Implementation
    15:06 The Impact of Animal Welfare on Behavior
    17:57 Conclusion and Future Aspirations

    Teaching Kindness Program

    https://www.goochlandpetlovers.com/education

    Keywords

    #TeachingKindness, #AnimalWelfare, #EducationPodcast, #GoochlandPetLovers, #EmpathyInEducation, #letsgolearn , #behavioralskills , #AnimalShelter, #RichmondVA, #BullyingPrevention

    26 min
  • Bridging the Knowing-Doing Gap: Teacher Ed, AI, & Future of Special Education w/Dr. Jennifer Sears

    Bridging the Knowing-Doing Gap: Teacher Ed, AI, and the Future of Special Education with Dr. Jennifer Sears

    Accelerating Education Podcast 🎙️
    Dr. Jennifer Sears, Associate Professor
    Department of Elementary and Special Education, University of North Georgia
    with host Richard Capone

    Episode P1E9, Oct 3, 2025

    Sponsored by Let's Go Learn https://www.letsgolearn.com

    Summary

    In this conversation, Dr. Jennifer Sears shares her journey into special education, highlighting the importance of advocacy and the evolution of educational practices. She discusses the innovative teacher education program at the University of North Georgia, which prepares students for diverse classroom environments. The conversation also addresses challenges in teacher retention, the role of technology in education, and the importance of embracing new tools and ideas in special education. Dr. Sears emphasizes the need for open-mindedness among special education directors and the value of insights from new teachers.

    Takeaways

    —Dr. Sears' journey into special education was influenced by her family's advocacy for individuals with disabilities.

    —The IDEA legislation was significantly impacted by early advocates like Dr. Sears' grandparents.
    —Dr. Sears emphasizes the importance of practical experience in teacher education programs.
    —The University of North Georgia's program uniquely certifies students in both elementary and special education.
    —Teacher retention is a significant challenge, with many new teachers leaving the profession within five years.
    —Dr. Sears encourages students to remember their 'why' in teaching to combat burnout.
    —Maintaining a work-life balance is crucial for educators.
    —Technology can enhance teaching practices, but it requires proper training and integration.
    —New teachers often bring fresh ideas and technological skills that can benefit experienced educators.
    —Collaboration between new and experienced teachers can lead to innovative solutions in education.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Special Education Journey

    03:11 Family Legacy and Advocacy in Special Education
    05:08 Teacher Education Program Structure
    12:10 Challenges in Teacher Retention
    17:15 The Role of Technology in Education
    24:59 Embracing New Tools in Special Education


    #SpecialEducation, #TeacherTraining, #TeacherEd, #IDEA, #EdTech, #ProfessionalDevelopment, #AIinEducation, #TeacherRetention, #DataDrivenInstruction, #LetsGoLearn

    22 min
  • Navigating Today’s Special Education with CEC President & UNCG Professor, Dr. Julie Bost

    Navigating Today’s Special Education with CEC President & UNCG Professor, Dr. Julie Bost

    Accelerating Education Podcast 🎙️
    Dr. Julie Irene Bost, CEC President, Clinical Associate Professor, UNCG
    with host Richard Capone

    Episode P1E8, Sep 26, 2025

    Sponsored by Let's Go Learn https://www.letsgolearn.com

    Summary

    In this conversation, Richard Capone speaks with Dr. Julie Bost about her extensive experience in special education, the current challenges facing educators, and the importance of support and advocacy for students with disabilities. They discuss the pressing educator shortage, the need for effective professional development, and the impact of funding changes on special education. Dr. Bost emphasizes the significance of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and the positive trends in technology and data utilization in education. The conversation concludes with a message of hope and the importance of community support in the field of special education.


    Takeaways

    —Dr. Bost has 28 years of experience in special education.

    —The educator shortage is a significant issue affecting schools.
    —Teachers need to feel supported to reduce burnout.
    —Funding for special education is still lacking despite promises.
    —IDEA has transformed access to education for students with disabilities.
    —Technology and data are increasingly important in special education.
    —Professional development needs to be more accessible and relevant.
    —Less is more when implementing new technologies in schools.
    —Community support is crucial for educators and students alike.
    —Celebrating achievements in the profession can foster a positive environment.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Special Education and Personal Journey

    02:43 Current Challenges in Special Education
    05:39 Supporting Educators and Professional Development
    08:48 Funding Changes and Advocacy for IDEA
    11:39 The Impact of IDEA and Historical Context
    14:33 Trends in Technology and Data Utilization
    17:33 Implementation Strategies for New Administrators
    20:38 Closing Thoughts on Hope and Community Support

    #SpecialEducation, #EducatorShortage, #TeacherSupport, #DisabilityAdvocacy, #IDEA, #ProfessionalDevelopment, #EducationTechnology, #StudentSupport, #SPED, #InclusiveEducation

    22 min
  • The Role of AI Assistants in Special Education: Richard Capone, CEO

    The Role of AI Assistants in Special Education: Richard Capone, CEO

    Accelerating Education Podcast 🎙️
    with guest host John Williams

    Episode P1E7, Aug 7, 2025

    Sponsored by Let's Go Learn https://www.letsgolearn.com

    Summary

    In this episode of Accelerating Education, John Williams and Richard Capone discuss the integration of AI into special education through Let's Go Learn. They explore the maturity of AI technology, the introduction of AI assistants for teachers, and the importance of data-driven approaches in writing Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). Richard emphasizes the significance of context engineering in AI applications, the management of documents, and the support provided to educators. The conversation also touches on future developments in AI for education and how to get started with Let's Go Learn.

    Takeaways

    —AI is becoming more mature and integrated into education.

    —Special education leaders need guidance on AI policies.
    —AI assistants can help with writing IEPs and PLAFs.
    —Data privacy is crucial when using AI in education.
    —Context engineering is essential for effective AI use.
    —Teachers need good data to write effective IEPs.
    —AI can automate tasks that teachers normally do.
    —Let's Go Learn provides a document management system.
    —Professional development and support are available for users.
    —Future developments will enhance AI capabilities in education.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to AI in Education

    01:53 AI Assistants in Special Education
    04:41 The Role of Data in AI Implementation
    08:04 Context Engineering and AI Writing
    09:35 Validating AI-written PLAAFPs
    10:13 Training and Support for Educators
    16:27 Future Developments in AI for Education
    19:58 Getting Started with Let's Go Learn
    22:02 Accelerating Education Outro v03.mp4

    #Specialeducation, #LetsGoLearn, #AI, #AIAssistants, #IEPs, #ContextEngineering, #EdTech, #Education, #Teachers

    23 min
  • Transforming Special Education Through Urban Agriculture & Restaurants: Teacher Michael Craig

    Transforming Special Education Through Urban Agriculture: Teacher Michael Craig

    Accelerating Education Podcast 🎙️
    with host Richard Capone

    Episode P1E6, June 5, 2025

    Sponsored by Let's Go Learn https://www.letsgolearn.com

    Contacting Michael about his horticulture program kids in special education:

    Michael Craig
    Director, Drew Horticulture Program
    Charles R. Drew Transition Center
    Detroit Public Schools

    Summary

    In this episode of the Accelerating Education podcast, host Richard Capone interviews Michael Craig, a special education teacher and also the 2025 CEC Teacher of the Year. Michael is the Director of the Drew Horticulture Program at the Charles R. Drew Transition Center. In this podcast, he shares his unique journey from general education to special education, detailing the evolution of his horticulture program that teaches vocational skills to special needs students. The conversation highlights the daily operations of the program, success stories of student engagement with fresh produce, and the challenges faced in securing employment opportunities for these students. Michael offers valuable advice for educators looking to start similar programs and discusses the importance of community involvement and support.

    Takeaways

    —Michael Craig transitioned from general education to special education for job security.

    —The horticulture program focuses on teaching vocational skills to special needs students.
    —Daily operations involve planning tasks based on students' abilities.
    —The program has successfully introduced hydroponics to accommodate all students.
    —Monthly tastings help students appreciate fresh produce and culinary skills.
    —Collaboration with local restaurants has created unique opportunities for students.
    —Curriculum development is tailored to meet diverse student needs.
    —Community support is crucial for program sustainability and growth.
    —Finding employment opportunities for special needs students remains a significant challenge.
    —Policymakers need to clarify SSI benefits to encourage employment for special needs individuals.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Michael Craig and His Journey

    07:55 The Horticulture Program's Evolution and Daily Operations
    17:06 Success Stories and Community Impact
    23:57 Advice for Educators and Future Aspirations
    30:11 Challenges and Policy Recommendations

    #specialeducation, #horticulture, #vocationaleducation, #FarmToTable, #inclusion, #teacheroftheyear, #detroitpublicschools, #disabilityemployment, #TransitionEducation, #LifeSkills

    34 min
  • Revolutionizing Transition Education: Dr. Stacie Dojonovic on Life-Centered Learning 2.0

    Revolutionizing Transition Education: Dr. Stacie Dojonovic on Life-Centered Learning 2.0

    —Accelerating Education Podcast 🎙️
    with host Richard Capone

    Revolutionizing Transition Education: Dr. Stacie Dojonovic on Life-Centered Learning 2.0 | Accelerating Education Podcast

    Episode P1E5, May 29, 2025
    Sponsored by Let's Go Learn https://www.letsgolearn.com

    Summary

    In this conversation, Richard Capone interviews Dr. Stacie Dojanovic, the executive director of DCDT, about the evolution and importance of transition education for students with disabilities. They discuss the significance of early transition planning, the changes in societal expectations, and the need for explicit teaching of skills that lead to successful post-secondary outcomes. The conversation also highlights the development of Life-Centered Education 2.0 and the integration of technology to enhance teaching practices.

    Takeaways

    —Transition has been a lifelong passion for Dr. Dojanovic.
    —Transition planning should start as early as possible, ideally at age 14 or 16.
    —The focus of transition services has evolved from just employment to a broader set of skills.
    —Explicit teaching of skills is crucial for improving post-school outcomes.
    —All students, not just those with disabilities, benefit from transition education.
    —Life-Centered Education 2.0 aims to provide relevant skills for today's society.
    —Technology integration is essential for effective transition education.
    —High leverage practices can significantly improve instructional delivery.
    —Collaboration between educators and researchers is vital for curriculum development.
    —Continuous adaptation of educational practices is necessary to meet changing societal needs.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to DCDT and Transition Education
    00:22 Dr. Stacie Dojonovic
    00:30 How did you get into transition curriculum?
    00:44 Growing up as a sibling of someone with a disability
    02:30 Tell us about yourself?
    03:56 Understanding Transition Planning in Education
    06:18 Evolution of Transition Services and Expectations
    11:06 The Importance of Explicit Teaching in Transition Education
    12:22 Relevance of Life Skills for All Students
    13:27 Adapting Life-Centered Education for Modern Needs
    16:28 Overhauling the LCE Curriculum
    19:08 Integrating Technology and AI in Education

    Keywords

    transition education, DCDT, special education, life-centered education, high leverage practices, post-secondary outcomes, independent living, evidence-based practices, curriculum development, technology in education

    Hashtags

    #TransitionEducation, #SpecialEducation, #DCDT, #LifeCenteredEducation, #PostSecondarySuccess, #DisabilityAwareness, #EducationTechnology, #EdTech, #CurriculumDevelopment, #InclusiveEducation

    23 min

About Accelerating Education

From the publisher's feed

Education is evolving, and technology is shaping the way we teach and learn like never before. Accelerating Education is your go-to podcast for deep dives into the intersection of education, technology, and data-driven decision-making. Each episode dissects insightful blogs and articles on ed-tech, student assessment, adaptive learning, and personalized instruction—enhanced with expert commentary and engaging discussions.