Welcome to the July segment of Ask Us Anything! In these fun episodes of the Special Education for Beginners podcast, Jennifer and her monthly co-host, Paul, answer the questions you ask. This episode is packed with practical wisdom and tips to help you handle the challenges of the special education classroom.

Today's Questions:

1. Katie from Florida: "I am a brand new teacher starting this fall in a resource classroom, but I also will have some students who have higher needs and are with me a lot of time during the day. What resources or materials do you recommend for a new teacher in this situation?"
2. Angie from Texas: "How can I best utilize my paraprofessionals?"

Talking Points:

1. Resources for New Teachers:
   • Importance of Seeking Support:
     • Jennifer shares her initial experiences as a new teacher and emphasizes the importance of seeking support.
     • Utilizing podcasts, social media, and veteran teachers for guidance.
   • Scheduling and Grouping:
     • Paul's top recommendation: Invest time in creating effective schedules.
     • Collaborating with special education staff for optimal scheduling.
   • Visual Schedules and Behavior Management:
     • Creating visual schedules based on students' Individual Educational Plans (IEPs).
     • Implementing a behavior management system that is simple and sustainable.
   • Data Tracking Tools:
     • Using data tracking notebooks or spreadsheets for goal tracking and progress monitoring.
   • Sensory Items:
     • Preparing a variety of sensory tools and fidgets tailored to individual student needs.
   • Jennifer's Paraprofessional Handbook:
     • Jennifer discusses the handbook she created when she was struggling in this area which provides for effective paraprofessional management.
2. Maximizing the Potential of Paraprofessionals:
   • Use a Para Interest Inventory
   • Practical Ways to Utilize Paraprofessionals
   • Supporting and Appreciating Paraprofessionals
   • Communication and Prep:

Resources Mentioned:

• Jennifer's Paraprofessional Handbook on TPT
• FREE Paraprofessional Survey & Summary 
• Digital Para Interest Survey

Don't Forget!

Send in your questions for the next Ask Us Anything segment!

Sign up to be notified each time a new episode airs and get access to all the discounts!

Don't forget to leave a review of the show!

Follow Jennifer
Instagram
TPT