In this episode of Prepared School Psych podcast, host Jenny Ponzuirc delves into the various roles within an Individualized Education Program (IEP) meeting based on her extensive experience of over 25 years in school psychology. Jenny explains the evolution of the roles, highlighting responsibilities such as facilitator, note taker, and timekeeper. She also offers practical tips on helping colleagues improve their roles, including permission-based feedback, concrete examples, role modeling, and positive reinforcement. For listeners seeking additional resources, show notes and handouts are available.

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Follow us on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more:

Instagram: @jennyponzuric https://www.instagram.com/jennyponzuric/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenny-ponzuric-1562a8119/

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00:00 Introduction to the IEP Meeting

00:49 Roles in the IEP Meeting

02:17 Tips for Supporting Team Members

04:35 Concluding Thoughts and Resources
The information and advice provided are for guidance purposes only, and all participants are required to follow federal and state law and their school district guidelines and policies.

In part three of a six-part series on the IEP process, Jenny Ponzuric discusses the importance of accurately presenting current levels of functioning in an IEP document. Drawing from her 25 years of experience in special education, she highlights the shift from summarizing assessment results with jargon and test scores to providing detailed, understandable descriptions of a student's abilities. Jenny emphasizes the need for present levels that can serve as baselines for setting goals, urging assessors to go beyond standardized tests and gather comprehensive information about a student's academic, communication, social, emotional, and behavioral performance.

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Subscribe to this podcast now and join our community of dedicated School Psychologists committed to creating inclusive, supportive, and empowering school environments for every child. Let's embark on this journey of professional growth and student-centered advocacy together!

Follow us on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more:

Instagram: @jennyponzuric https://www.instagram.com/jennyponzuric/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenny-ponzuric-1562a8119/

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00:00 Introduction to Present Levels in the IEP

00:15 Evolution of Present Levels Documentation

00:58 Defining Present Levels with Specific Examples

01:37 The Role of Standardized Testing

02:31 Incorporating Test Scores in Present Levels

03:43 Improving Present Levels Documentation

04:06 Conclusion and Next StepsThe information and advice provided are for guidance purposes only, and all participants are required to follow federal and state law and their school district guidelines and policies.

Maximizing Efficiency in School Psych Evaluations with Dr. Dan Miller

In this episode of the Prepared School Psych podcast, Dr. Dan Miller discusses his new venture, Psych Writer Pro, a virtual report writing assistant aimed at streamlining school neuropsychology evaluations. With a vast background in school neuropsychology, including leadership roles at the Woodcock Institute for Neurocognitive Research and Applied Practice and the Kids Inc. School Neuropsychology Postgraduate Certification Program, Dr. Miller shares his insights on the software's development, its unique features, and how it supports clinicians to save time while minimizing errors. He also offers advice for new school psychologists on staying cognitively flexible and committing to lifelong learning. Dr. Miller emphasizes the importance of integrating qualitative and quantitative data for comprehensive evaluations.Resources:

PsychWriter Pro: https://www.psychwriterpro.com/

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Subscribe to this podcast now and join our community of dedicated School Psychologists committed to creating inclusive, supportive, and empowering school environments for every child. Let's embark on this journey of professional growth and student-centered advocacy together!

Follow us on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more:

Instagram: @jennyponzuric https://www.instagram.com/jennyponzuric/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenny-ponzuric-1562a8119/

🔗 jennyponzuric.com

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:09 Dr. Dan Miller's Background and Contributions

01:13 Current Activities and Hobbies

03:28 The Psych Writer Pro Software

05:47 Features and Benefits of Psych Writer Pro

14:51 User Feedback and Future Enhancements

24:03 Integration with School District Requirements

34:43 Advice for New School Psychologists

39:24 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

The information and advice provided are for guidance purposes only, and all participants are required to follow federal and state law and their school district guidelines and policies.

🎙️ In this quick episode, we continue our six-part series dedicated to unraveling the complexities of the IEP (Individualized Education Program) process. This time, we're focusing on the essential task of explaining evaluation results to parents and educators during IEP meetings. It’s a crucial step that often sets the tone for the entire discussion. Ever wondered how to effectively communicate complex data without overwhelming or confusing the audience? I’ll be sharing strategies and insights that have worked in real-world situations.

Episode Highlights:

• Introduction: I start by recalling a particularly challenging IEP meeting where explaining the results became a turning point in how the team approached future presentations.

• Balancing Detail with Clarity: We explore the importance of striking a balance between providing detailed information and maintaining clarity, especially when dealing with parents who may not be familiar with educational jargon.

• Three Key Techniques for Clear Communication:

  1. Breaking Down Complex Data: Simple methods to make technical information more accessible.
  2. Using Visual Aids: How charts, graphs, and other visuals can help convey important points effectively.
  3. Encouraging Questions: Creating an open environment for parents to ask questions and express concerns.

• Personal Anecdote: I share a story about an IEP meeting where the use of visual aids transformed the way the team communicated with the parents, leading to better understanding and collaboration.

Key Takeaways:

• How to make evaluation results understandable and meaningful to all IEP team members.
• Practical tips for improving communication during IEP meetings.
• The importance of engaging parents in the discussion to ensure everyone is on the same page.

Additional Resources:

For more tips on presenting evaluation results effectively, visit our resource page: Effective Communication in IEP Meetings. Feel free to share these resources with colleagues who might find them helpful.

Follow us on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more:

• Instagram: @jennyponzuric
• LinkedIn: Jenny Ponzuric
• 🔗 jennyponzuric.com

Welcome to another episode of the Prepared School Psych podcast! In today’s episode, Jenny Ponzuric delves into the ins and outs of the pre-referral process in schools. Whether your process is running smoothly or in need of an overhaul, Jenny’s insights and tips will guide you through making meaningful improvements.

Key Topics Covered:

• Defining the Pre-Referral Process: Jenny explains the various names for pre-referral meetings, such as SSTs, CSTs, and MTSS teams. Understanding these terms helps in grasping how your school’s process aligns with others.

• Evaluating Your Current Process:

  • Timeframe: How long does it take from initial referral to the first meeting? Jenny discusses the importance of timely responses.
  • Data Collection: What type of data is being gathered? Are you receiving useful information to support concerns?
  • Data Needs: What additional data might be helpful for monitoring student progress and deciding on evaluations?
  • Referral Forms: Are the forms effective and completed correctly?
  • Common Complaints: What are the main issues people face with the current process?

• Actionable Tips for Improvement:

  1. Collect Data: Gather information on current complaints and process effectiveness to drive improvements.
  2. Communicate with Decision Makers: Share your observations and data with those who can influence change, such as principals or administrators.
  3. Offer Assistance: Provide support rather than taking on all responsibilities yourself to foster collaborative improvement.

  
  

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Subscribe to this podcast now and join our community of dedicated School Psychologists committed to creating inclusive, supportive, and empowering school environments for every child. Let's embark on this journey of professional growth and student-centered advocacy together!

Follow us on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more:

Instagram: @jennyponzuric https://www.instagram.com/jennyponzuric/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenny-ponzuric-1562a8119/

🔗 jennyponzuric.com

🎙️ In this episode, we kick off a six-part series dedicated to exploring the intricacies of the IEP (Individualized Education Program) process. Today’s focus is on a common scenario at IEP meetings: the verbal presentation of evaluation results. Ever been in a meeting where someone reads the report word for word? I share my experiences and offer practical tips for handling this situation effectively.

Episode Highlights:

• Introduction: I open up about a memorable IEP meeting where the evaluation report was read word for word, and the impact it had on the attendees.
• Is Reading Word for Word Appropriate? My perspective on when it’s appropriate to read directly from the report—spoiler alert: it’s rare.
• Three Tips for Handling Word-for-Word Reading:

Personal Anecdote:I recount a situation where a consultant’s presentation took twice as long due to reading and summarizing. I share how a thoughtful conversation with the behaviorist led to a more efficient and parent-friendly presentation style in future meetings.

Key Takeaways:

• Understanding the impact of reading reports word for word.
• Practical tips for improving the effectiveness of IEP meetings.
• The importance of offering support and constructive feedback to assessors.

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Subscribe to this podcast now and join our community of dedicated School Psychologists committed to creating inclusive, supportive, and empowering school environments for every child. Let's embark on this journey of professional growth and student-centered advocacy together!

Follow us on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more:

Instagram: @jennyponzuric https://www.instagram.com/jennyponzuric/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenny-ponzuric-1562a8119/

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In this episode, we delve into the world of nonverbal assessment with Dr. Milton Dehn and Carl Romstad. Traditional fluid reasoning tests have limitations, and our guests introduce a groundbreaking new tool that can unlock the full potential of students, especially those from diverse backgrounds.

Dr. Dehn and Carl Romstad discuss:

• The shortcomings of current fluid reasoning tests.
• Why contextual reasoning is crucial for academic success and everyday life.
• The development of this innovative assessment tool designed to measure contextual reasoning skills.
• How the new assessment can benefit students from various backgrounds.
• Practical applications for school psychologists using the new assessment.
• Valuable advice for new school psychologists entering the field.

Resources:

• Free Webinar about the ANCR: https://www.schoolhouseeducationalservices.com/

• To purchase the ANCR: https://www.schoolhouseeducationalservices.com/assessment-of-nonverbal-contextual-reasoning-ancr/
• To read the article mentioned in the podcast: https://casponline.org/pdfs/ct/c2d_Winter_2024_web.pdf
• If you have follow-up questions for the guests:

Dr. Milton Dehn: [email protected]

Carl Romstad: [email protected]

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Subscribe now and join our community of dedicated School Psychologists committed to creating inclusive, supportive, and empowering school environments for every child. Let's embark on this journey of professional growth and student-centered advocacy together!

Follow Jenny on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more:

Instagram: @jennyponzuric

🔗 jennyponzuric.com

The information and advice provided are for guidance purposes only, and all participants are required to follow federal and state law and their school district guidelines and policies.

In this episode Podcast Host Jenny Ponzuric discusses the concept of giving yourself and others an A, inspired by the book 'The Art of Possibility' by Benjamin and Rosamund Stone Zanders. She explains a unique assignment where students write letters envisioning their future successes, focusing on personal growth and positive perspectives. Jenny encourages school psychologists to apply this practice in their own lives for the upcoming school year, emphasizing self-reflection and the power of giving others an A to foster a supportive environment. 

Resources:The Art of Possibility: https://a.co/d/4vDUVP3

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Subscribe now and join our community of dedicated School Psychologists committed to creating inclusive, supportive, and empowering school environments for every child. Let's embark on this journey of professional growth and student-centered advocacy together!

Follow Jenny on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more:

Instagram: @jennyponzuric

🔗 jennyponzuric.com

Time Stamps:

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:31 Introducing 'The Art of Possibility'

01:10 The Concept of Giving an A

03:43 Applying the Concept to School Psychologists

05:21 Example Letter from a Student

06:50 Steps to Implement the Concept

08:45 Conclusion and Call to Action

In this episode of the Prepared School Psych podcast, Jenny Ponzuric highlights the importance of reflection for school psychologists. She shares her experiences from the 2023-2024 school year, including delivering 70 training sessions and spending 50 hours in office hours via Zoom.

Jenny discusses her methods for evaluating past performance and planning for the future, focusing on improving content knowledge, system issues, and collaboration.

She also outlines upcoming topics for the next school year, such as summarizing assessment reports and addressing dyslexia.

Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own practices and join Jenny's newsletter or follow her on social media for further insights and updates.

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Subscribe now and join our community of dedicated School Psychologists committed to creating inclusive, supportive, and empowering school environments for every child. Let's embark on this journey of professional growth and student-centered advocacy together!

Follow us on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more:

Instagram: @jennyponzuric

🔗 jennyponzuric.com

Time Stamps:

00:00 Introduction and Overview

00:09 Reflecting on Past School Years

00:28 Analyzing Key Metrics

01:06 Personal Achievements and Contributions

03:27 Team Dynamics and Collaboration

04:06 Planning for the Upcoming School Year

05:22 Content Knowledge and System Improvements

08:29 Future Topics and Goals

12:25 Conclusion and Next Steps

In this episode of the Prepared School Psych podcast, I welcome Matthew Moix, an experienced school psychologist and education leader. With over two decades in the field, Matthew discusses his early involvement in the Arizona Association of School Psychologists and his journey to becoming its president. He highlights key initiatives, including professional development, special education evaluation processes, and school safety. Matthew also shares valuable advice for new school psychologists, emphasizing the importance of organizational skills, networking within schools, and understanding behavioral interventions. Additionally, the episode explores strategies for effective leadership within school districts and state associations. Finally, Matthew talks about the significance of self-care through physical activities like running to manage stress. Follow the Arizona Association of School Psychologists on social media for updates on upcoming events and virtual workshops.Resources:

Arizona Association of School Psychologists: https://www.aasp-az.org/

Arizona Association of School Psychologists Social Media Accounts: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arizschoolpsych/channel/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/ArizSchoolPsych

X:

https://twitter.com/ArizSchoolPsych

The Ethics of Using AI in School Psychology Practice: Questions Answered Featuring Dr. Byron McClure

https://www.aasp-az.org/event-5781017/Registration

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Subscribe now and join our community of dedicated School Psychologists committed to creating inclusive, supportive, and empowering school environments for every child. Let's embark on this journey of professional growth and student-centered advocacy together!

Follow us on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more:

Instagram: @jennyponzuric

🔗 jennyponzuric.com

Time Stamps:

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

01:04 Favorite TV Shows and Personal Insights

01:57 Early Career and Association Involvement

03:19 Leadership Challenges and Public Speaking

04:26 Key Initiatives and Professional Development

06:22 Advocacy and Policy Engagement

10:38 Advice for New School Psychologists

12:07 Leadership and Time Management Tips

15:36 Upcoming Events and Final Thoughts

21:07 Conclusion and Listener Engagement

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