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Unlock the secrets to seamless communication with parents in the education sphere, as I share empowering strategies that turn potential conflicts into partnerships. In this riveting discussion, we dissect the art of crafting precise, measurable goals, shining a light on how IEPs can serve as a common language to bridge the gap between educators and parents. You'll be equipped with the knowledge to use data effectively, transforming graphs and evidence into a compelling narrative that supports your student's progress and fosters a collaborative spirit with even the most challenging parents.

Step into a world where teachers and parents align for the triumph of every child's educational journey. We explore the pivotal use of data as a beacon of advocacy, empowering both educators and parents to stride confidently on a united front. This episode is a treasure trove of insights for anyone invested in the academic success of our young learners. With these tools at your disposal, every conversation can evolve into a constructive problem-solving venture, ensuring that our children emerge as the ultimate victors.

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Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the mix and if you’re not subscribed there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on those. Click here for iTunes. 

Now if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find my podcast and they’re also fun for me to go in and read. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

Links Mentioned in the Show:

https://teachingstrugglinglearners.com 

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Are special education goals leaving our students in a lurch? That’s the burning question I tackle head-on as I dissect the pitfalls of nonsensical goals and the cookie-cutter 80% accuracy benchmark that's often accepted as the norm. Through my experiences at Teaching Struggling Learners, I've witnessed firsthand the transformative power of setting precise, foundational goals. We'll break down why aiming for less than 100% mastery in critical skills can do a disservice to learners, and how committing to complete understanding can revolutionize interventions and streamline progress monitoring.

Next up, I'll lay out the roadmap for articulating student progress in a manner that resonates with parents and provides a solid basis for advocating for additional resources and support. Stay tuned as I share strategies to help educators be the catalyst for their students’ educational success. With these insights, you'll be equipped to forge ahead with confidence, ensuring that every piece of data is not just a number but a stepping stone towards meaningful achievements for your students. So refill that coffee cup and get ready for a session that's set to change the game for you and your scholars.

Subscribe & Review in iTunes

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the mix and if you’re not subscribed there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on those. Click here for iTunes. 

Now if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find my podcast and they’re also fun for me to go in and read. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

Links Mentioned in the Show:

https://teachingstrugglinglearners.com 

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Ever felt like the educational support system is a maze without an exit? I'm Jessica Curtis, and in this episode, I confront the tangle head-on, dissecting the complexities of MTSS and RTI in schools. Join me as I make the case for these frameworks to be more than mere pathways to special education, advocating for a synergistic relationship where shared insights and strategies lead to student success. With a focus on the parallels between MTSS and special education, I call attention to the importance of data-driven decisions, periodic reviews, and targeted goals, all crucial for meaningful progress. It's a mission to ensure that the commitment schools make to support student learning is not just a promise, but a practice.

This conversation is an urgent one, with implications that reach far beyond individual classrooms. As the new year unfolds, it's time to rethink our approach to educational support, aiming for consistency and resource-sharing that can uplift both MTSS and special education. By exploring interventions like the Orton-Gillingham approach, which may serve to elevate all students, we can begin to address the deep-seated issues that leave too many students lagging in basic skills. I'm calling for a year of innovation to combat teacher burnout and reverse the exodus from this critical profession, crafting an educational experience that's as fulfilling for educators as it is for students. Tune in for a candid discussion about shaping an educational future where every learner is equipped for success.

Subscribe & Review in iTunes

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the mix and if you’re not subscribed there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on those. Click here for iTunes. 

Now if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find my podcast and they’re also fun for me to go in and read. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

Links Mentioned in the Show:

https://teachingstrugglinglearners.com 

5 Steps to Getting Started with Progress Monitoring

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Ever feel like you're playing detective when it comes to monitoring math progress? Well, grab your magnifying glass because on today's episode, I, Jessica Curtis, am your guide to unraveling the mystery of effective math intervention. With a spotlight on choosing students with aligned needs and deciphering assessment data, we lay out an actionable plan to reinforce those foundational math skills that are so often the culprits of confusion. And let's not forget the significance of prerequisite skills – we ensure these are locked in place, setting up our students for a smoother climb up the math mountain.

As we navigate the twists and turns of math education, you'll discover how a splash of color and the vroom of miniature cars can transform a daunting concept into an 'aha!' moment. Sharing my personal toolkit of creative strategies, I invite you to join me in thinking outside the traditional teaching box. Stay tuned for a sneak peek at our next episode where I'll stir the pot with some controversial math opinions. Until then, may your coffee be strong and your breaks be restorative. Let's toast to a year where math struggles meet their match!

Subscribe & Review in iTunes

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the mix and if you’re not subscribed there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on those. Click here for iTunes. 

Now if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find my podcast and they’re also fun for me to go in and read. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

Links Mentioned in the Show:

https://teachingstrugglinglearners.com 

5 Steps to Getting Started with Progress Monitoring

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I still remember the day when algebra went from being my nemesis to my ally, a transformation that wouldn't have been possible without a firm grasp of basic math. Now, I want to help you navigate the same challenges, as we explore the impact of foundational skills on mastering algebra. In the heart of our discussion, I take you back to my high school special education teaching days, sharing firsthand insights into how students' struggles with fundamental math operations can create barriers to grasping more complex mathematical concepts. Together, we'll confront the sobering reality facing today's students and the educational system, emphasizing the urgent need to prioritize these critical skills for academic success.

As the episode winds down, I can't help but look forward to the upcoming break, and I'm sure you're feeling the same. Sending out a wave of tranquility to all of you hard workers out there, I hope this episode leaves you feeling prepared to tackle the challenges ahead and then unwind in the peace of your well-deserved time off. Keep that coffee strong and your spirits higher. Wishing you all a restful pause from the daily grind, we'll reunite on the other side, refreshed and ready to satisfy our shared curiosity once more. Thank you for sharing this journey with me, and remember to cherish the calm that comes with a break well earned.

Subscribe & Review in iTunes

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the mix and if you’re not subscribed there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on those. Click here for iTunes. 

Now if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find my podcast and they’re also fun for me to go in and read. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

Links Mentioned in the Show:

https://teachingstrugglinglearners.com 

5 Steps to Getting Started with Progress Monitoring

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Ever found yourself tangled in the complexities of math goals within IEPs, particularly those pesky word problems? You're in for a revelation as we tackle the misconceptions and unveil a more strategic approach. Word problems have been the go-to for encompassing multiple skills, but as I've experienced firsthand, this method isn't the golden ticket we thought it was. Through an eye-opening discussion, learn how I pivoted from using word problems as catch-all goals to focusing on specific foundational skills, leading to crystal-clear objectives and remarkable student progress. We'll dissect the essence of crafting math goals that truly cater to the needs of struggling learners and leave those overly broad targets behind.

Hold onto your calculators, because this episode is also your gateway to mastering progress monitoring in math. I'm thrilled to share a math progress monitoring bundle that's been a game-changer in my teaching arsenal, and you won't want to miss the free guide I've put together. It's a succinct five-step walkthrough to kickstart your progress monitoring journey with confidence, tailored to fit even the most jam-packed academic schedules. Discover how to harness the power of focused, strategic intervention, and give your students the boost they need to excel in math, all without the overwhelm. Join us for this enlightening conversation and equip yourself with the tools to make measurable strides in your students' math abilities.

Subscribe & Review in iTunes

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the mix and if you’re not subscribed there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on those. Click here for iTunes. 

Now if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find my podcast and they’re also fun for me to go in and read. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

Links Mentioned in the Show:

https://teachingstrugglinglearners.com 

5 Steps to Getting Started with Progress Monitoring

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Ever feel like math gets the short end of the stick when it comes to educational support? Join me, Jessica Curtis, as I shine a spotlight on the shadowed world of math intervention, ensuring that students receive the balanced educational support they desperately need. In a realm where reading intervention takes center stage, I lead a charge to champion the cause of those wrestling with numbers. We'll unpack the necessity of foundational math skills, discussing how educators can identify and tackle deficits in students' understanding, from basic number recognition to complex geometrical concepts. This isn't just talk; it's a battle cry for action, urging teachers to spearhead effective math intervention strategies in their classrooms and ensure no child is left behind as they navigate the tricky waters of mathematics within the MTSS and RTI frameworks.

Data isn't just numbers on a page – it's the compass that guides our teaching strategies and the lifeline that connects us to the resources our students need. In this heart-to-heart, I walk you through "Five Steps to Progress Monitoring," a toolkit designed to empower educators with the know-how to track and assess student progress confidently. Through charts and observation tools, we look into how data informs decision-making and communication with parents and colleagues. As we gear up for a fresh start post-holiday season, I'll share insights on the strategic timing for implementing these interventions, seeking to foster a robust environment of growth and achievement in the classroom. So, take my hand as we step into the world of data-driven instruction and advocacy, ensuring every learner has the opportunity to excel.

Subscribe & Review in iTunes

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the mix and if you’re not subscribed there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on those. Click here for iTunes. 

Now if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find my podcast and they’re also fun for me to go in and read. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

Links Mentioned in the Show:

https://teachingstrugglinglearners.com 

5 Steps to Getting Started with Progress Monitoring

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Ever felt overwhelmed by the task of progress monitoring? Rest easy, friends! We're here to demystify the process and arm you with some strategic tips to maximize your intervention time. We kick off our enlightening discussion with an in-depth exploration of ensuring your goals are precise and skill-focused. We’ll also touch on the importance of time-boxing lengthy skills, knowing what exactly you're monitoring, and making certain your interventions are in alignment with your goals. 

The second part of our chat is just as illuminating, as we provide a blueprint to help you efficiently organize your progress monitoring efforts. Learn why the key to a streamlined process lies in setting skill-focused goals and aligning your monitoring with them. We also reveal handy resources that will be instrumental in maximizing your progress monitoring efficacy. And just a heads up - we're going to start diving into the world of mathematics in the context of MTSS next week. So, whether you're a seasoned educator or a rookie, this episode is your ticket to mastering the art of progress monitoring. Stay tuned!

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What if the progress monitoring tool you are using is not aligned with your academic goals? How will this impact the data you collect and the progress you can report? Let's explore these questions and more in this enlightening episode where we delve into the nitty-gritty of progress monitoring for academic goals. We'll shed light on the importance of focusing on the skill area pertinent to the goal and offer valuable insights on how to review goals effectively and select the correct progress monitoring collection tool.

Imagine having a five-step guide to kickstart your progress monitoring, complete with the right materials, examples, and actionable tips. That's exactly what we have for you in this episode! Get ready to learn how to prep your progress monitoring in advance, dodge printer jams and paper shortages, and organize your materials with intervention materials for stress-free access when you need them. As a bonus, we're also going to reveal how you can get your progress monitoring done in less than an hour a week in our next episode. So, stay tuned and let's master progress monitoring together.
Subscribe & Review in iTunes

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the mix and if you’re not subscribed there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on those. Click here for iTunes. 

Now if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find my podcast and they’re also fun for me to go in and read. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

Links Mentioned in the Show:

https://teachingstrugglinglearners.com 

5 Steps to Getting Started with Progress Monitoring

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Are you ready to rewrite the playbook on student goal setting and progress monitoring? Join Jessica from Teaching Struggling Learners shifts the focus from tests to practical skills. We'll unpack strategies for setting meaningful yet attainable goals for students, centered around mastering foundational skills. We'll also explore effective ways to track these goals and ensure students can perform beyond the test environment.

On today's episode, we're challenging the conventional wisdom that test-focused goals are the gold standard in education. Jessica will shed light on the significance of setting skill-focused goals that promote thorough mastery of foundational skills, rather than merely gearing up for passing tests. Get a sneak peek into our next episode where we'll delve deeper into progress monitoring these skill-focused goals. Tune in, and let's rethink student goal setting together!

Subscribe & Review in iTunes

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the mix and if you’re not subscribed there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on those. Click here for iTunes. 

Now if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find my podcast and they’re also fun for me to go in and read. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

Links Mentioned in the Show:
https://teachingstrugglinglearners.com 

5 Steps to Getting Started with Progress Monitoring