Schoolin' Around

Larissa and her guest, Ashley Pennell, former Assistant Director of Special Education, explore the misconceptions surrounding accommodations in special education, emphasizing the importance of understanding their purpose and the need for individualized support. The discussion highlights the necessity of involving students in their learning process and creating a supportive classroom environment that removes stigmas around asking for help.

Resources:

https://www.ncld.org/

https://www.understood.org/

https://www.ed.gov/laws-and-policy/individuals-disabilities/section-504

Special Ed Article

Cracking the Code: Bridging MTSS and Special Education for Student Success

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2025 Branching Minds MTSS Summit

Takeaways:

• Accommodations provide access, not unfair advantages.
• Misunderstandings about accommodations stem from lack of education.
• It's essential to regularly evaluate the need for accommodations.
• Involving students in discussions about their accommodations is crucial.
• Creating a supportive classroom environment helps reduce stigma.
• Accommodations can be temporary and should be re-evaluated.
• Personalized accommodations are necessary for student success.
• Leveling the playing field is vital for students with disabilities.
• Educators must understand the difference between accommodations and modifications.
• It's okay for students to ask for help and use tools to succeed.

Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our Branching Minds Website, or sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS. Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds. 

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This conversation explores the transformative potential of AI in education, focusing on its role in enhancing teaching and learning, the importance of AI literacy for both students and educators, and the challenges and opportunities presented by AI in addressing educational equity. Chris Agnew, Director of Generative AI for Education Hub at Stanford, shares insights on how AI can support underserved communities, the barriers to implementing innovative educational practices, and practical advice for education leaders navigating this evolving landscape.

Resources:

https://acceleratelearning.stanford.edu/initiative/digital-learning/

https://acceleratelearning.stanford.edu/initiative/scale/ 

https://scale.stanford.edu/ai/repository 

https://acceleratelearning.stanford.edu/story/what-does-ai-mean-for-learners-with-disabilities/ 

https://www.teachai.org/toolkit 

https://www.teachai.org/ 

https://www.cosn.org/  

Blog: AI for Educators: Game Changing Tools That Make Your Life Easier

Branchings MTSS Assistant Dottie: https://www.branchingminds.com/dottie-ai-mtss

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Takeaways:

• AI is reshaping education by enhancing teaching and learning.
• AI literacy is essential for both students and educators.
• The potential of AI in education is still being explored.
• AI can help close achievement gaps for underserved communities.
• Reimagining education with AI requires innovative thinking.
• Education leaders face challenges in implementing AI effectively.
• AI tools can streamline administrative tasks for teachers.
• Building a culture of AI literacy is crucial for future success.
• AI can support personalized learning experiences for students.
• Collaboration between educators and AI developers is key.

Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our Branching Minds Website, or sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS. Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds. 

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This conversation focuses on the structure and effectiveness of Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) teams in educational settings. The speakers discuss the importance of accountability, data-driven decision-making, and the roles and responsibilities within MTSS teams. They emphasize the need for effective meeting structures and the integration of qualitative and quantitative data to improve student outcomes. The conversation also highlights the significance of leadership and collaboration in implementing MTSS successfully.

Resources:

MTSS Meetings Guide

Article: Ensure Efficiency with MTSS Teams & MTSS Meetings

2025 Branching Minds MTSS Summit

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Takeaways:

• MTSS is essential for improving student outcomes.
• Effective teaming structures are crucial for collaboration.
• Data-driven decision-making enhances the MTSS process.
• Qualitative data provides insights that quantitative data may miss.
• Clear roles and responsibilities improve team efficiency.
• Regular meetings are necessary for effective MTSS implementation.
• Agendas help keep meetings focused and productive.
• Building a supportive schedule is key to MTSS success.
• Leadership plays a vital role in MTSS effectiveness.
• Starting small can lead to significant improvements.

Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our Branching Minds Website, or sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS. Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds. 

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In this episode, Larissa discusses the Multi-Tier System of Supports (MTSS) and the importance of analyzing screening data to identify patterns that indicate the effectiveness of core instruction and interventions. She emphasizes the need to address issues such as flipped triangles, upward tier movement, and demographic disparities to create a more equitable educational system. The conversation highlights the significance of strengthening core instruction, ensuring targeted interventions, and fostering collaboration among educators to meet the diverse needs of students.

Resources:

Article: Understanding MTSS Tier Levels: Common Problems and Solutions

Article: Flipped MTSS Triangle? Effective Strategies for School Administrators.

2025 Branching Minds MTSS Summit

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Takeaways:

• About 80% of students should thrive with Tier 1 core instruction.
• A flipped triangle indicates a system problem, not a student problem.
• Strengthening Tier 1 is essential before supporting Tiers 2 and 3.
• Dynamic MTSS allows students to move between tiers based on response to instruction.
• Quality and quantity of interventions are crucial for success.
• Demographic disparities require an equity check in support systems.
• Implicit bias can influence student identification for support.
• Core instruction must be rigorous and evidence-based.
• Collaboration among educators is key to effective MTSS implementation.
• Data analysis should drive strategic decisions in education.

Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our Branching Minds Website, or sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS. Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds. 

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In this conversation, Dr. Whitley Dozier and Larissa discuss the complexities of change management in education, addressing common misconceptions, the role of leadership, and the importance of communication. They emphasize that change is a continuous process that requires ongoing support and understanding of the people involved. The discussion highlights the need for a shared vision, the significance of recognizing resistance as a signal for support, and the necessity of embedding change into the culture of educational institutions.

Resources:

Article: MTSS From Buy-in to Implementation: 8 Steps for Change

Administrators Guide to Supporting Teachers

Capacity Building for MTSS Article

Guide for Sustainable MTSS Implementation

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2025 Branching Minds MTSS Summit

Takeaways:

• Change management has three components: people-focused, process-driven, and outcome-oriented.
• Misconceptions about change often lead to ineffective communication strategies.
• Strong leadership is important, but change must be a collective effort.
• Ongoing communication and feedback are essential for successful change implementation.
• Resistance to change can stem from overload and lack of clarity.
• Change is a continuous process, not a one-time event.
• Celebrating small wins can help maintain momentum in change initiatives.
• Understanding the context and experiences of educators is crucial for effective change management.
• Change management should involve co-creation and shared vision among stakeholders.
• Effective change management requires a focus on both quantitative and qualitative outcomes.

Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our Branching Minds Website, or sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS. Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds. 

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In this conversation, Dr. Andrew Shanock discusses the challenges and misconceptions surrounding the implementation of Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) in schools. He emphasizes the importance of data-driven instruction, the need for effective teacher training, and the distinction between best practices and good practices in education. Dr. Shanock also highlights the significance of sustaining MTSS over time and building a supportive educational environment to ensure student success.

Resources:

Guide for Sustainable MTSS Implementation

Progress Monitoring Guide and Toolkit

Principal Leadership Article

Article: 5 Factors for District Leaders to Align Vision and Action with MTSS

Dr. Shanock LinkedIn

Takeaways:

• MTSS implementation can be challenging due to misconceptions.
• Data quality is crucial for effective MTSS.
• Teachers often lack training in effective instructional practices.
• Best practices should be viewed as good practices.
• Sustaining MTSS requires consistent leadership and support.
• Professional development is essential for teacher effectiveness.
• Collaboration among educators is key to MTSS success.
• Understanding student growth is more important than benchmarks.
• Schools must adapt practices to their unique contexts.
• Building a supportive environment is vital for student success.

Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our Branching Minds Website, or sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS. Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds. 

Send feedback or inquiries to [email protected]!

In this conversation, Dr. Ramiro Rubalcaba shares his journey from a teacher's assistant to the superintendent of the Los Nietos School District. He emphasizes the importance of building a legacy in education, creating sustainable systems, and fostering a culture of trust and wellness within the school community. Dr. Rubalcaba discusses strategies for shifting mindsets among educators and the significance of work-life balance for leaders and staff.

Resources:

The Superintendent’s Guide to MTSS and District Strategic Planning

Superintendents and MTSS Webinar

Administrators Guide to Supporting Teachers

Takeaways

• The greatest legacy is building leaders who can sustain the work.
• Effective leadership is about service, not power.
• Creating a positive culture is essential for organizational success.
• Trust is either present or absent; there's no in-between.
• High expectations are necessary for excellence in education.
• Wellness initiatives are crucial for staff and student success.
• Systems and processes must align with desired outcomes.
• Engaging families in decision-making strengthens the community.
• Leaders must delegate and trust their teams to innovate.
• Balancing long-term vision with day-to-day operations is key.

Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our Branching Minds Website, or sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS. Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds. 

Send feedback or inquiries to [email protected]!

​​In this conversation, Larissa and Ashlie Cox discuss the myth that more homework leads to more learning. They explore the purpose of homework, the impact of excessive assignments on students, and the equity challenges faced by those without resources. The discussion emphasizes the importance of meaningful homework that has a clear purpose and relates to real-world applications, while also providing alternatives to traditional homework. The conversation concludes with advice for educators and parents on how to approach homework in a way that supports student learning without causing stress.

Resources:

Article: Student Engagement: Why it’s Important and How to Promote it

Article: 6 Daily Engagement Practices for Every MTSS Tier

Core Instruction Guide

Takeaways:

• More homework doesn't necessarily lead to more learning.
• Homework should have a clear purpose and be minimal.
• Excessive homework can lead to student burnout and stress.
• Equity issues arise when homework requires resources not all students have.
• Meaningful homework should relate to real-world applications.
• Busy work does not teach discipline or reinforce learning.
• Parents often expect homework as a sign of learning.
• Teachers should consider the time students have for homework.
• Alternatives to traditional homework can enhance engagement.
• Rethinking homework can improve student outcomes.

Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our Branching Minds Website, or sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS. Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds. 

Send feedback or inquiries to [email protected]!

In this episode, Larissa discusses the transformative potential of the MTSS framework in schools. She emphasizes the importance of building a shared vision among staff, engaging them in the process, and leading with purpose. The conversation covers practical strategies for implementing MTSS, including gradual rollouts, celebrating progress, and empowering teachers to take leadership roles. Larissa shares real-life examples and actionable insights to help leaders foster a collaborative culture that supports every student's success.

Resources:

Slide Template: Introducing MTSS to Your Team

Leader Protocol Guide for Buy-In

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Takeaways:

• MTSS is a framework designed to meet the needs of all students.
• Leadership is crucial for the successful implementation of MTSS.
• Buy-in from the team starts with understanding the 'why'.
• Connecting MTSS to shared values can enhance engagement.
• A phased rollout of MTSS helps reduce resistance.
• Modeling vulnerability as a leader builds trust.
• Celebrating small wins keeps morale high.
• Empowering teachers fosters ownership and investment.
• Creating leadership teams can bridge gaps between staff and administration.
• MTSS is an opportunity to strengthen the school community.

Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our Branching Minds Website, or sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS. Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds. 

Send feedback or inquiries to [email protected]!

This conversation with author Mitch Weathers, delves into the concept of executive functioning in education, emphasizing its importance for student success. The speakers discuss the challenges students face in managing their time and tasks, the significance of establishing routines, and the need for educators to explicitly teach executive functioning skills. They highlight the role of working memory in learning and the impact of a supportive and predictable learning environment. The discussion also touches on the importance of collective efficacy among educators to create a cohesive approach to teaching and learning.

Resources:

Executive Function Toolkit

Executive Function in MTSS

Organized Binder

Webinar: Ask the Author: Executive Functioning in Every Classroom

Takeaways:

• Executive functioning is crucial for goal-oriented behavior.
• Students need explicit instruction on executive functioning skills.
• The hidden curriculum can significantly impact student success.
• Predictability in routines helps students feel safe and engaged.
• Working memory is the engine for learning and retention.
• Collective efficacy among educators enhances student outcomes.
• Teaching skills should be a universal approach, not just for struggling students.
• Repetition and practice are key to mastering executive functioning skills.
• Creating a supportive learning environment reduces cognitive load.
• Students can transfer executive functioning skills to real-world situations.

Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our Branching Minds Website, or sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS. Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds. 

Send feedback or inquiries to [email protected]!