SPEDTalk
By The Texas Education Service Centers' Special Education Liaisons
SPEDTalk Apr 30, 2024
Navigating Independence 18 + programs for Special Education Students. Part 2: McAllen
The SPEDTalk team is in McAllen ISD talking 18 + programming. Also in this episode, they get a parent's and a student's perspective.
Navigating Independence: 18+ Programs for Special Education Students, Part 1: PSJA
PSJA episode "Pathways for Independence"
The SPEDTalk team goes to the Valley to discuss 18+ programming with Pharr San Juan Alamo ISD. They discuss the "Life House", hear success stories and talk about how someone else might start a new program.
Dale la lucha! Fight: Family & Schools United to Change Children's Lives
Description: In this episode, we hear a mother’s honest story about how she fought and continues to fight for her daughter to have the best educational and life experience. We are reminded that the power of community is great and how schools who lead with love for their students unleash their potential while providing the tools that parents need to be strong advocates. Barriers can be broken, even cultural barriers are no match for a community who truly cares.
Descripción: En este episodio, escuchamos la historia honesta de una madre sobre cómo luchó y continúa luchando para que su hija tuviera la mejor experiencia educativa y de vida. Se nos recuerda que el poder de la comunidad es grande y cómo las escuelas que lideran con amor por sus estudiantes liberan su potencial al mismo tiempo que brindan las herramientas que los padres necesitan para ser firmes defensores. Las barreras se pueden romper, incluso las barreras culturales no son rival para una comunidad que realmente se preocupa.
To Be Like me
The SPETalk team gets an amazing opportunity to speak with the Founder and some of the Leaders of To Be Like Me.
Culture Starts with a Connection: Go Slow to Go Fast
The team talks with Angi Thomas, Consultant Special Education Behavior at Region 14 ESC. The conversation centers around building culture and revisits an earlier episode with Merkel Middle School. Additionally, Angi shares some tips for educators.
Project Search: Spotlighting Transition Opportunities
The SPEDTalk crew speaks with Garland ISD about its partnership with Project Search.
Empowering Deaf/Hard of Hearing Students and Their Families
Team member Molly Savant is not only a certified teacher for Deaf/Hard of Hearing she is also the parent of two Deaf/Hard of Hearing children. The SPEDTalk team talks with Molly about her experiences and struggles as a parent while the interpreter signs in this video episode.
Transforming Merkel Middle School: Changing Culture with PBIS
The SPEDTalk crew chats with Merkel Middle School Principal about changing culture, overcoming adversity and a plan to turn the campus around.
Amarillo College Grows Aspiring Teachers
In this episode, we dive into the dynamic partnership between Region 16 and Amarillo College, a collaboration reshaping educational opportunities and professional development for aspiring teachers. The episode highlights the innovative initiatives under this participation. Listeners will gain insights about the impact of this alliance on education to aspiring teachers providing a first-hand account of their journey and growth through these opportunities. This podcast is a treasure trove for anyone interested in the future of teaching and the power of educational collaboration.
Pam & John's Last Ride
In this episode the SPEDTalk team hears from Pam and John as they discuss the history of their involvement with the podcast and what is up next in each of their lives.
Texas Sensory Support Network: Deaf Hard of Hearing
Emily Robinson, Deaf and Hard of Hearing Specialist at the Texas Education Agency, and Twyla Loftin, DHH Project Lead, discuss educating students who are deaf or hard of hearing with the SPEDTalk crew. Emily will be speaking through an interpreter.
Creating Culture and Impacting Outcomes Through Project Based Learning at UTTUA
In this episode of SPEDTalk, we learn all about the positive impact that project based learning is having on the performance, achievement, and outcomes of students at the UT Tyler University Academy Charter School. UTTUA is a public university Charter School that incorporates STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education into daily classroom curriculum and utilizes a hands-on learning approach to better equip students with the 21st century skills required to succeed in the future.
2022 Barbara Jordan Media Awards
2021 Barbara Jordan Media Awards
www.facebook.com/SPEDTalk2020
www.instagram.com/spedtalk2020/
It Takes Courage To Create Culture & Kindness To Keep Us Connected! (Dr. JCB)
Getting to Know the SPEDTalk Team
In this episode of SPEDTalk, new members of the team are introduced. The current challenges of special education are discussed, along with possible solutions. This episode was recorded live in video format and can be viewed online at Spotify podcasts.
2022 Barbara Jordan Media Awards
2021 Barbara Jordan Media Awards
www.facebook.com/SPEDTalk2020
www.instagram.com/spedtalk2020/
It Takes Courage To Create Culture & Kindness To Keep Us Connected! (Dr. JCB)
Dr. Rodney Watson, A Believer in Possibilities
We have a special guest in this SPEDTalk episode: Dr. Rodney Watson, the Executive Director of Region 4 Education Service Center, Houston, TX. He talks about his personal and professional journey in special education and how he supports and advocates for students with disabilities. He also shares his insights on the current challenges and opportunities in education and his vision for the future of learning. Join us as we learn from Dr. Watson's wisdom and passion for special education.
2022 Barbara Jordan Media Awards
2021 Barbara Jordan Media Awards
www.facebook.com/SPEDTalk2020
www.instagram.com/spedtalk2020/
It Takes Courage To Create Culture & Kindness To Keep Us Connected! (Dr. JCB)
Creating Possibilities Through Co-Teach and Student Led IEPs
In this combination episode of SPEDTalk, we learn about how Elizabeth Chapman and Alli Fletcher co-teach 6th-grade math at Lake Dallas Middle School, and we interview Cassie White, a special education teacher in Birdville ISD, who shares her experience and insights on implementing student-led IEP meetings in her district.
2022 Barbara Jordan Media Awards
2021 Barbara Jordan Media Awards
www.facebook.com/SPEDTalk2020
www.instagram.com/spedtalk2020/
It Takes Courage To Create Culture & Kindness To Keep Us Connected! (Dr. JCB)
Lake Dallas Co-Teach, Capitalizing on the Power of Two
In this episode of SPEDTalk, Elizabeth Chapman and Alli Fletcher co-teach 6th-grade math at Lake Dallas Middle School. They are creating a learning environment that benefits all students. The student's knowledge and skills dictate the level of support provided to students and not the label. Students receiving special education services are finding success. The co-teachers regularly collaborate to plan and deliver instruction that meets the diverse needs of their learners. They use data to monitor progress and adjust their strategies accordingly. They also foster a positive classroom culture where students feel valued and respected.
2022 Barbara Jordan Media Awards
2021 Barbara Jordan Media Awards
www.facebook.com/SPEDTalk2020
www.instagram.com/spedtalk2020/
It Takes Courage To Create Culture & Kindness To Keep Us Connected! (Dr. JCB)
Student Led IEP Meetings, Students' Voices and Choices.
In this episode of SPEDTalk, we interview Cassie White, a special education teacher in Birdville ISD, who shares her experience and insights on implementing student-led IEP meetings in her district. She explains how student-led IEP meetings empower students with disabilities to take charge of their learning goals and outcomes and how they foster collaboration and communication among students, teachers, parents, and other stakeholders. She also provides practical tips and strategies for preparing students to lead their IEP meetings and overcome potential challenges.
2022 Barbara Jordan Media Awards
2021 Barbara Jordan Media Awards
www.facebook.com/SPEDTalk2020
www.instagram.com/spedtalk2020/
It Takes Courage To Create Culture & Kindness To Keep Us Connected! (Dr. JCB)
Leveraging Self-Assessment for Effective Implementation and Lasting Impact
In this episode of SPEDTalk, we learn from two SPED Administrators in the field how to leverage the Self-Assessment process to achieve effective implementation and lasting impact through a programmatic continuous improvement process.
https://tea.texas.gov/academics/special-student-populations/review-and-support/self-assessment
2022 Barbara Jordan Media Awards
2021 Barbara Jordan Media Awards
www.facebook.com/SPEDTalk2020
www.instagram.com/spedtalk2020/
It Takes Courage To Create Culture & Kindness To Keep Us Connected! (Dr. JCB)
Living Life Unbridled at Camp Able of Buffalo Gap
In this episode of SPEDTalk, we learn all about the amazing work of Camp Able of Buffalo Gap, who's mission is to cultivate healthy, independent living for people with special needs through skills based training and equine therapy, with a special focus on using horses that have been given sanctuary from difficult circumstances. Camp Able’s vision is that self-sufficiency is a reasonable and achievable goal for humans regardless of mental, emotional and physical capabilities, with the full acceptance and understanding of their caregivers and society at large. Camp Able is a nonprofit organization that provides equine therapy to people with special needs and sanctuary to unwanted or neglected horses. At Camp Able, people with special needs experience broad improvements that lead to greater confidence and self-sufficiency, while horses find rehabilitation, care, training and a home.
https://camp-able.org/ https://www.facebook.com/groups/349014899666428/
2022 Barbara Jordan Media Awards
2021 Barbara Jordan Media Awards
www.facebook.com/SPEDTalk2020
www.instagram.com/spedtalk2020/
It Takes Courage To Create Culture & Kindness To Keep Us Connected! (Dr. JCB)
Texas Legal Framework Project Updates with Lee Lentz-Edwards
In this episode of SPEDTalk, we learn all about the Project Updates to the Legal Framework on ESC Region 18 website. The purpose of the project is to provide and maintain an updated web-based platform to assist stakeholders such as local educational agencies (LEAs), advocates, and parents in learning about state and federal laws and regulations by providing rich resources regarding obligations and rights for the provision of a free and appropriate public education in the least restrictive environment to students with disabilities.
2022 Barbara Jordan Media Awards
2021 Barbara Jordan Media Awards
www.instagram.com/spedtalk2020/
It Takes Courage To Create Culture & Kindness To Keep Us Connected! (Dr. JCB)
Fitting In By Standing Out With Autism
In this special extended episode of SPEDTalk, we are joined by career educator, Lori Ray to hear about her connection to an exceptional young man with autism who she was blessed to work with throughout his public school journey named Ty Vinson. Then, you will hear Ty's story in his own words as he describes what it was like growing up with autism.
2022 Barbara Jordan Media Awards
2021 Barbara Jordan Media Awards
www.instagram.com/spedtalk2020/
It Takes Courage To Create Culture & Kindness To Keep Us Connected! (Dr. JCB)
Giving Kids Hope and Giving Kids Help in Jasper ISD
In this episode of SPEDTalk, we learn how Jasper ISD is reversing the trend of significant disproportionality by giving kids hope and help. From Capturing Kid's Hearts to Equine Therapy and much more, this group of educators is making a significant impact on their students and community.
2022 Barbara Jordan Media Awards
2021 Barbara Jordan Media Awards
www.instagram.com/spedtalk2020/
It Takes Courage To Create Culture & Kindness To Keep Us Connected! (Dr. JCB)
Elevate and Excelerate: Working to Learn, Learning to Work
In this episode of SPEDTalk, we learn all about the amazing Transition Related Opportunities coming our of ESC Region 19. Listen in to this conversation to hear all about how the Elevate and Excelerate Program provides opportunities for students with disabilities to work to learn and learn to work.
Elevate and Excelerate: ESC Region 19
2022 Barbara Jordan Media Awards
2021 Barbara Jordan Media Awards
www.instagram.com/spedtalk2020/
It Takes Courage To Create Culture & Kindness To Keep Us Connected! (Dr. JCB)
The Penguin Project Soars to New Heights in Corsicana ISD!
In this episode of SPEDTalk, we circle back to our friends at Corsicana ISD to hear about the amazing new directions the Penguin Project has gone since we first visited with them last school year when they were performing Annie. Named for the exceptional characteristics of penguins, the Corsicana ISD Penguin Project is a unique theatre production in which all roles are filled by students with developmental disabilities; allowing students to shine forth and demonstrate their strengths. Students are joined on stage by a dedicated group of "peer mentors" who work alongside these talented students through rehearsals and performances. As the only education institution across the United States partaking in this program, the Corsicana ISD Penguin Project invests in positive, inclusive culture change, community engagement, bolsters confidence, and empowers children with special needs through theatre. Upcoming Penguin Project showings of SHREK are scheduled at Corsicana ISD on November 18th and 19th. To learn more and get you tickets visit the links below.
https://www.cisd.org/penguinproject
https://www.facebook.com/CISDPenguinProject/
2022 Barbara Jordan Media Awards
2021 Barbara Jordan Media Awards
www.instagram.com/spedtalk2020/
It Takes Courage To Create Culture & Kindness To Keep Us Connected! (Dr. JCB)
Now You See Me...
In this episode, we record our first ever Video Podcast edition of SPEDTalk at ESC Region 10. Listen in to hear the audio version of this podcast in which we talk about the evolution of SPEDTalk or check out the Video version on YouTube at the link below
https://youtu.be/YrgOFsgdMzo ------> SPEDTalk Video Podcast Episode: Now You See Me...
2022 Barbara Jordan Media Awards
2021 Barbara Jordan Media Awards
www.instagram.com/spedtalk2020/
It Takes Courage To Create Culture & Kindness To Keep Us Connected! (Dr. JCB)
Doctor Doctor Give Me The News: Jennifer Alexander and Justin Porter Discuss Leadership and Direction at TEA
In this episode of SPEDTalk, we are joined by Dr. Jennifer Alexander and Dr. Justin Porter to discuss leadership and direction at TEA. Tune in to hear about changes with respect to Cyclical Monitoring and TEA Initiatives and Resources.
2022 Barbara Jordan Media Awards
2021 Barbara Jordan Media Awards
www.instagram.com/spedtalk2020/
It Takes Courage To Create Culture & Kindness To Keep Us Connected! (Dr. JCB)
10 Minutes 'Til Videos: Quick Tips For Administrators
In this episode of SPEDTalk, we sit down with ESC Region 10 Special Education Liaison, Evan Heckmann, to discuss his 10 Minutes 'Til Video series designed for campus leadership but available to all on the ESC Region 10 website. ESC Region 10 knows that educational leaders face many competing priorities and that Special Education knowledge can be vital to their success. Knowing their time is precious and that they have limited opportunities to access the knowledge/resources they need is the reason behind the development of these brief videos. They serve as a reminder on particular applicable topics and can be viewed right before you find yourself in a situation you wish you remembered more about. They should not take the place of initial and thorough training.
https://www.region10.org/programs/special-education-campus-administrator-support/videos/
2022 Barbara Jordan Media Awards
2021 Barbara Jordan Media Awards
www.instagram.com/spedtalk2020/
It Takes Courage To Create Culture & Kindness To Keep Us Connected! (Dr. JCB)
What's New in 22?
In this episode, the SPEDTalk Team comes together to discuss the progression of the podcast and to provide our listeners with an opportunity to become a bit more acquainted with each of the members of SPEDTalk. Listen in to hear all about what's new in 2022.
2022 Barbara Jordan Media Awards
2021 Barbara Jordan Media Awards
www.instagram.com/spedtalk2020/
It Takes Courage To Create Culture & Kindness To Keep Us Connected! (Dr. JCB)
SPEDTalking STAAR Redesign
In this episode, the SPEDTalk Crew comes together to discuss upcoming changes to the Texas State Assessment, the STAAR Test. In case you didn't know, the STAAR Test is currently being redesigned to more accurately emulate pedagogical best practices and classroom instruction that is differentiated and evidence based. The STAAR redesign is a result of House Bill (HB) 3906 passed by the 86th Texas Legislature in 2019. The Texas Education Agency (TEA), working with a wide range of education stakeholders, including the Assessment Education Advisory Committee, has been exploring the most instructionally supportive approach to implementing these changes. The redesign will be implemented in the state summative assessments administered in the 2022–2023 school year.
2022 Barbara Jordan Media Awards
2021 Barbara Jordan Media Awards
www.instagram.com/spedtalk2020/
It Takes Courage To Create Culture & Kindness To Keep Us Connected! (Dr. JCB)
Partners Resource Network: Empowering Parents to Partner with Schools
In this episode of SPEDTalk, we learn all about the Partners Resource Network (PRN), which is a non-profit agency that operates the Texas statewide network of Parent Training and Information Centers [PTI’s are funded by the US Department of Education, Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP)]. The PTI Projects are: PACT, PATH, PEN, and TEAM. PRN helps parents to understand their child’s disability; understand their rights and responsibilities under IDEA; obtain and evaluate resources and services; and participate as team members with professionals in planning services for their children. PRN offers individual assistance over the phone and in-person to families who have questions about their child’s needs, workshops for parents and professionals take place on an ongoing basis throughout Texas, and resources such as printed publications and online materials available on a variety of relevant topics.
2021 Barbara Jordan Media Awards
www.instagram.com/spedtalk2020/
It Takes Courage To Create Culture & Kindness To Keep Us Connected! (Dr. JCB)
SPEDTalking Texas Transition
In this episode of SPEDTalk, we are back with our friends from Texas Transition to learn all about their amazing resources. In case you didn't know, the Student-Centered Transitions Network (SCTN) is creating new pathways to a successful adult life for students with disabilities. The SCTN is led by the Eleanor and Charles Garrett Center on Transition and Disability Studies at Sam Houston State University in collaboration with the Texas Education Agency.
https://www.texastransition.org/
2021 Barbara Jordan Media Awards
www.instagram.com/spedtalk2020/
It Takes Courage To Create Culture & Kindness To Keep Us Connected! (Dr. JCB)
Experiencing The Cotton Boll Consortium
In this episode of SPEDTalk, Pam and I travel to ESC Region 17 in Lubbock, Texas to experience the West Texas Cotton Boll Consortium first hand. Through a collaborative partnership between Regions 9, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, and 19, this two-day session brings Special Education Directors and other administrators together to discuss hot topics and best practices. Various topics discussed included strategic support plans, the DMS process, cyclical reviews, transition, intensive programs of instruction, budgets, family engagement, and much more.
https://drshawnarobinson.com/doctor-dyslexia-dude/
2021 Barbara Jordan Media Awards
www.instagram.com/spedtalk2020/
It Takes Courage To Create Culture & Kindness To Keep Us Connected! (Dr. JCB)
Bitty & Beau's Coffee Shops: More than just a great cup of coffee!
In this episode of SPEDTalk, we are joined by Meghan Young (Franchise Relations and Brand Excellence) for Bitty & Beau's Coffee Shops. Brewing up more than just delicious drinks, Bitty & Beau’s Coffee is a human rights movement disguised as a coffee shop. Their shops provide a one-of-a-kind experience that is changing the way people see people with disabilities. As advocates for the value, acceptance, and inclusion of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, the Wrights have dedicated their lives to making the world a better place for their children and others living with disabilities. With locations popping up everywhere, Bitty & Beau's is more than just a great cup of coffee!
https://www.bittyandbeauscoffee.com/
2021 Barbara Jordan Media Awards
www.instagram.com/spedtalk2020/
It Takes Courage To Create Culture & Kindness To Keep Us Connected! (Dr. JCB)
SPED Director Collaborative LiveBinder
In this episode of SPEDTalk, we learn all about the Special Education Director Collaborative LiveBinder, which is a joint project of the Texas ESCs working together to provide time-sensitive information and resources on special education topics to support special education directors across the state. The binder consists of Timeline Topics, which highlight time-sensitive items on a quarterly basis, and includes a year-at-a-glance document, quarterly checklists, and detailed quarterly slide deck. It also includes Special Education Spotlights, which contain information modules that address many of the topics referenced in the Timeline Topic modules but in greater details in addition to a new Live Calendar feature that supports special educators and has the ability to sync with Outlook and Google.
https://www.livebinders.com/play/play?id=1647085#anchor
2021 Barbara Jordan Media Awards
www.instagram.com/spedtalk2020/
It Takes Courage To Create Culture & Kindness To Keep Us Connected! (Dr. JCB)
Connecting The Dots in Waxahachie ISD
In this episode of SPEDTalk, we visit Waxahachie ISD to learn all about the Connecting the Dots Transition Fair, which is a partnership with Region 10 ESC. Connecting the Dots is an informational fair for individuals with disabilities, their families, caregivers, and educators as well as the vendors who provide services. The purpose of the event is to provide information about community based resources, services, and supports that assist the individuals and their families.
https://www.txcpsh.org/calendar/2021/4/24/4242021-connecting-the-dots-expo
2021 Barbara Jordan Media Awards
www.instagram.com/spedtalk2020/
It Takes Courage To Create Culture & Kindness To Keep Us Connected! (Dr. JCB)
Doctor Dyslexia Dude to the Rescue!
In this episode of SPEDTalk, we are joined by Dr. Shawn A. Robinson aka Doctor Dyslexia Dude following his inspiring presentation at the 2021 Cotton Boll Consortium. Shawn Anthony Robinson, Ph.D. is a full-time faculty member teaching reading, scholar, and entrepreneur, who delivers premium services such as training sessions, consulting and speaking engagements. He is professionally affiliated with the Wisconsin’s Equity & Inclusion Laboratory at the University of Wisconsin Madison, Madison Area Technical College, and advisory member with Benetech. Robinson’s goal is to change the narrative and give all students HOPE!
https://drshawnarobinson.com/doctor-dyslexia-dude/
2021 Barbara Jordan Media Awards
www.instagram.com/spedtalk2020/
It Takes Courage To Create Culture & Kindness To Keep Us Connected! (Dr. JCB)
Caring For and Empowering People of All Abilities: Alcove Care Assisted Living and So Much More!
In this episode of SPEDTalk, we learn all about one mother's journey through special education with her son Michael. Former Superintendent of Morton ISD and Founder of Alcove Care, Vicki Rice shares her inspiring story and reminds us all of the power of a mother's love for her child. Since retiring after a thirty plus year career as an educator, Vicki has gone on to give back to her community with Alcove Assisted Living, which is a community-based organization focused on caring for and empowering persons with special needs.
2021 Barbara Jordan Media Awards
www.instagram.com/spedtalk2020/
It Takes Courage To Create Culture & Kindness To Keep Us Connected! (Dr. JCB)
Coach Goes Beyond The Game To Help Student Be Successful.
In this episode of SPEDTalk, Pam and John sit down with Northside ISD Coach, Dave Lambert, who goes the extra mile for his students. Football is a language all of its own, but what if you can’t hear? A student on the @NISDFolks football team is deaf so he and his coach are learning how to communicate with each other. Watch how Coach Dave Lambert is going #BeyondTheGame to help all his students be successful.
https://twitter.com/i/status/1329533657850077186
2021 Barbara Jordan Media Awards
www.instagram.com/spedtalk2020/
It Takes Courage To Create Culture & Kindness To Keep Us Connected! (Dr. JCB)
Trauma Informed Practices from Project Restore
In this episode of SPEDTalk, we are blown away by the amazing learning opportunities regarding trauma informed practices from Project Restore. As a result of school closures and remote learning due to the COVID-19 pandemic, students have been at higher risk of exposure due to adverse childhood experiences and first hand exposure to the effects of COVID-19. Many educators have themselves experienced a prolonged state of stress over the course of the pandemic and share many of the concerns regarding loss of safety, health and predictability as students upon the return to school.
That’s why TEA has launched Project Restore and this trauma-informed training video series, which is designed to address these extraordinary and unprecedented needs and connect to relevant science and strategies that can help you address your own emotional needs as well the needs of your students and colleagues. This series will help educators create an environment that jump starts teaching and learning and drives student achievement.
https://www.texasprojectrestore.org/
2021 Barbara Jordan Media Awards
www.instagram.com/spedtalk2020/
It Takes Courage To Create Culture & Kindness To Keep Us Connected! (Dr. JCB)
SPEDTex on SPEDTalk: Simply Spectacular!
In this episode of SPEDTalk, we sit down with Dr. Gracie Whitley from ESC Region 10 to learn all about SPEDTex, which provides information and resources that can help parents understand their child’s disability and their rights and responsibilities under Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). The Special Education Information Center (SPEDTex) facilitates collaboration that supports the development and delivery of services to children with disabilities in Texas. Parents and teachers alike will benefit from visiting the SPEDTex Website at the link below.
2021 Barbara Jordan Media Awards
www.instagram.com/spedtalk2020/
It Takes Courage To Create Culture & Kindness To Keep Us Connected! (Dr. JCB)
Elevating the Conversation with Justin Porter and Jennifer Patterson
In this episode of SPEDTalk, we sit down with Dr. Justin Porter (State Director of Special Education) and Jennifer Patterson (Director/Special Education ESC Support) from TEA to discuss the state of special education in Texas, the evolving role of special education liaisons, and the 2021 Barbara Jordan Media Award that SPEDTalk received for our "Don't Be Afraid To Be Included" episode.
2021 Barbara Jordan Media Awards
www.instagram.com/spedtalk2020/
It Takes Courage To Create Culture & Kindness To Keep Us Connected! (Dr. JCB)
Looking Back and Moving Forward
In this episode of SPEDTalk, the team reflects on the amazing episodes from Season Three and looks forward to Season Four, which will kick off with a bang with Justin Porter and Jennifer Patterson from the Texas Education Agency.
2021 Barbara Jordan Media Awards
www.instagram.com/spedtalk2020/
It Takes Courage To Create Culture & Kindness To Keep Us Connected! (Dr. JCB)
SPEDTalk Receives Governor's Award: Honoring Kami & Simon
In this episode of SPEDTalk, we reconnect with Kami Dodds and Simon Guzman to honor their contributions to our award winning episode, "Don't Be Afraid To Be Included," which was recently selected as a 2021 Barbara Jordan Media Award Winner. Listen to catch up on Simon's efforts to develop and deliver a wheelchair swing and Kami's transition to a new school district in which she hopes to replicate the magic she achieved with her students in Brady ISD.
2021 Barbara Jordan Media Awards
www.instagram.com/spedtalk2020/
It Takes Courage To Create Culture & Kindness To Keep Us Connected! (Dr. JCB)
SPEDTalking with Cheer Abilities
In this episode of SPEDTalk, we are joined by Tamsey, Mona, and Jasmine to learn all about Cheer Abilities, which provides athletes of all ages with varying types of differences and limitations the opportunity to Cheer on competitive teams. Th goal is to provide these athletes with the true experience of all-star cheerleading, from tumbling and stunting, to the thrill of performing in front of a large crowd. From school spirit to the spirit of competition and teamwork, cheer and dance have unique ways of connecting people, and the all star cheer and dance community has dedicated time and attention to cultivating teams with athletes of special talents in the Cheer Abilities and Dance Abilities divisions.
Cheer Abilities Unlocks True Potential
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It Takes Courage To Create Culture & Kindness To Keep Us Connected! (Dr. JCB)
Riding on the Crest of a Wave with TX CAN
In this episode of SPEDTalk, we learn about the amazing resources and trainings from the Texas Complex Access Network (TX CAN). Dedicated to raising awareness of the limitless potential of students with significant cognitive disabilities by presuming competence and finding the most appropriate supports to provide connection, access, and increased opportunities, TX CAN is creating a new paradigm of acceptance and potential for students with significant cognitive disabilities. TX CAN's mission is to put effective, evidence-based tools and strategies into the hands of teachers, and parents, to help them on their journey.
TX CAN Website
www.instagram.com/spedtalk2020/
It Takes Courage To Create Culture & Kindness To Keep Us Connected! (Dr. JCB)
TEA & AIR: Aligning Efforts to Address Significant Disproportionality
In this episode of SPEDTalk, Pam and John learn all about the Strategic Partnership between the Texas Education Agency (TEA) and the American Institute for Research (AIR) to address Significant Disproportionality (SD) through grant opportunities for specific LEAs. The purpose of this grant is to support LEAs that have been notified of 1 or more areas of significant disproportionality in either discipline, identification, or restrictive placements. The Addressing Significant Disproportionality (SD) project will create a grant program to provide targeted LEAs with deep consultative services to identify systemic issues related to effective and equitable services to students in all groups. The consultation will include reviews of the following: student outcome data, child find policies and procedures, effective implementation of linguistically and culturally responsive pedagogy in tier 1 instruction, effective and appropriate tier 2 and tier 3 interventions, tier 1 behavior and systemic classroom management processes, as well as processes for ensuring all students are given access to high expectations and the corresponding rigorous academic coursework. This review will specifically build upon information gleaned from the review and support self-assessment. Aligned with current research, a major theme throughout all grant-funded activities is assisting LEAs in identifying the underlying causes of SD so they can appropriately select high-leverage Evidence-Based Practices (EBPs; i.e., multi-tiered systems of support, culturally responsive pedagogy, etc...) aligned to those needs. This will be evident in all resources, PD, and coaching.
www.instagram.com/spedtalk2020/
It Takes Courage To Create Culture & Kindness To Keep Us Connected! (Dr. JCB)
Special Edition: Penguin Project Takes Flight in Corsicana ISD
In this episode of SPEDTalk, Pam and John dive into the deep end of Inclusion with Corsicana ISD who is proud to be the first chapter
site in Texas of The Penguin Project. The Penguin Project is a magical and touching celebration of the human spirit that all unfolds on stage. Students across the district (4th - 12th grade) perform in the Broadway musical, Annie, Jr. The roles are filled by young artists with developmental disabilities such as autism, intellectual disabilities, visual or hearing impairment and other neurological disorders. Peer-mentors volunteer to work side-by-side with the special needs students from rehearsals to the final performance. Providing access to theater, The Penguin Project demonstrates that the special challenges of a disability should not handicap a child’s ability to participate in life’s experiences. This inclusion program provides a supportive environment for children of all abilities to explore their creative talents. The impact of this national program has reached beyond the stage to bring communities together for a wonderful cause. Corsicana ISD Special Programs, community volunteers, CISD staff, parents, students and numerous others have joined together under the direction of Cran Dodds to make this program a reality.
The Penguin Project Bragging Rights Article
The Penguin Project Sponsor Info
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It Takes Courage To Create Culture & Kindness To Keep Us Connected! (Dr. JCB)
Moments of Impact Multiplied by the MEMN Network
In this episode, Pam and John learn all about the Multiple Exceptionalities and Multiple Needs (technical assistance) Network, which aspires to support the unique set of needs of students who are being served by Special Education as well as identified in one or more of the following areas: English learners, Gifted and Talented, and Highly Mobile; specifically-- migrant students, military connected students, students experiencing homelessness, and students in foster care. This network strives to improve the outcome of students who have multiple needs and multiple exceptionalities by building educator capacity, increasing family support, and developing training and resources. To meet the unique needs of these students, planned and purposeful coordination is required between the programs of Special Education, Gifted and Talented, English learner support, and Highly Mobile support.
MEMN Network Website - https://www.txmemn.tea.texas.gov/
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It Takes Courage To Create Culture & Kindness To Keep Us Connected! (Dr. JCB)
TIERing Support and Closing Gaps Through Evidenced Based Practice
In this episode of SPEDTalk, Pam and John learn all about the amazing work of the TIER Network. Tiered Interventions Using Evidence-Based Research, or TIER, is a project funded by the Texas Education Agency. Their goal is to provide educators, caregivers, and other educational stakeholders with the knowledge and materials to ensure appropriate implementation of multi-tiered system of supports (MTSS) in every school across Texas.
The TIER network is developing comprehensive and coherent trainings and resources for evidence-based intervention practices across the state. The network strives to increase LEA and ESC capacity to develop and implement an effective, integrated, comprehensive framework for intervention that is grounded in differentiated instruction and aligns the systems that are fundamental for all students’ academic, behavioral, and social achievement.
They have developed a series of modules that focus on different components of MTSS. Within each module, you’ll find more specific pathways. A pathway includes a presentation with handouts as well as a video of the presentation. Presenters can use the presentation and handouts during professional learning. Educators and caregivers can use the video and handouts to walk through the content on their own.
For more information, contact them at TIER@meadowscenter.org.
TIER Website - https://tier.tea.texas.gov/
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It Takes Courage To Create Culture & Kindness To Keep Us Connected! (Dr. JCB)
Loving Students Doesn't Lower Expectations
In this episode of SPEDTalk, listen in as the conversation goes from parental love to educational impact as the amazing mom of two sons with autism describes her journey to becoming a teacher who sees the potential in all of her students. The high expectations and unconditional love she has for her own two sons is also experienced by each and every one of her students. It is often said, "there's nothing quite like the love of a mother" and "kid's don't care how much a teacher knows unless they know how much the teacher cares." Teaching each as though they were her own, Nikki McDaniel, 1st Grade Teacher at Brady ISD understands that loving students doesn't mean lowering expectations. This is Inclusion Lived!!
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~Courage Creates Culture & Kindness Keeps Us Connected~