Our Supported Employment Journeys: Launch Buddies Share Their Stories and the Impact of Job Coaching

Discover how a former coach turned his playbook towards revolutionizing special education with technology. Joe Brazier from Microsoft's K-12 education team joins us to share his inspirational journey from the sidelines to the forefront of educational innovation. His story is one of unexpected turns, leading to a profound impact on how educators utilize tech tools to empower students with disabilities. Listen to Joe's insights on data-driven decision-making, and how it's changing the educational landscape for the better, ensuring clear communication and consistent outcomes across the board.

In an education system where one size rarely fits all, Joe walks us through his experience in the trenches of special education, evolving from analog tapes to the magic of iPads and HoloLens devices. His collaboration with Microsoft Education has not only dismantled barriers but has also played a crucial role in destigmatizing assistive technology. This chat is packed with compelling examples of how Microsoft initiatives are crafting personalized learning experiences and fostering an inclusive environment where every student can excel.

Wrapping up, Joe leaves us with powerful insights on the future of educational technology. From leveraging universal design principles to advocating for gradual adoption of new tech, Joe's perspective highlights the transformative potential of accessibility tools. His voice is a rallying cry for a future where every learner, regardless of ability, can navigate their educational journey with independence and success. Don't miss our next episode where Joe Frazier will take us through selecting the right technological aids to enrich the lives of students with disabilities.

Barbara Beck has been teaching Special Education at the secondary level for nearly 30 years. Her primary focus and deep passion is in seeing young adults who live with disabilities transition successfully from school-to-adulthood. Her Launch Buddies classes and podcast content are her way of deepening relationships while amplifying student/family and teacher voices.

For more information and resources on special education school-to-adulthood transition planning and independent living, visit www.mykeyplans.com. Join us on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and discussions about special education, inclusion, and disability advocacy. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn and use #IEPLaunchpadPodcast to join the conversation. Thank you for tuning in to the IEP Launchpad Podcast! 🎧🎙️#IDD #teaching #specialed #specialneeds #InclusionMatters #DisabilityAdvocacy #EmpowerVoices #edtech, #education #edtech, #teachers

🙏 Special Thanks to Our Sponsors
A heartfelt thank you to our generous sponsors, Specially Designed Education Services, publishers of The Functional Academics Program.

🎙️ Episode Highlights: Breaking Barriers in Special Education

Hey there, educators! Welcome to another inspiring episode of The FAST 15. Today, we're diving into an uplifting conversation with Lisa Huffmaster, an incredible advocate and specialist in inclusive education. Lisa's journey began over two decades ago as a special educator, and her passion for creating meaningful opportunities for students with diverse needs shines through.

✨The Spark of Inspiration
Lisa shares her personal inspiration for entering the world of special education—her twin sister with Down syndrome. This heartfelt connection fueled her commitment to transforming the educational experience for students with unique abilities.

🔍 The Missing Piece: Assessment and Progress Monitoring
Lisa emphasizes the importance of assessments and progress monitoring in creating effective specially designed instruction. Without understanding a student's unique needs, it's like trying to teach algebra without knowing what the number eight is. Let's drill down, find the missing pieces, and empower our students with tailored support.

🤝 Bridging the Gap in General Ed Settings
Discover how functional academics are making waves in general education settings. Lisa shares insights into collaboration, communication, and creating inclusive learning environments. It's about identifying strengths, addressing needs, and ensuring every student's voice is heard at the IEP table.

🌟 Work-Based Learning: Real-World Success Stories
Lisa's involvement in work-based learning programs, like the PEAK (Panther, Employment, Action, and Knowledge) program, showcases the power of hands-on experiences. From running a student-owned coffee business to designing T-shirts, these initiatives provide real-world skills, community inclusion, and job opportunities for young adults.

🚀 Encouragement for New Educators
Lisa's advice for new educators? Take a tour through the entire educational journey, from kindergarten to transition. Witnessing the progress and celebrating small victories can be incredibly motivating. Remember, it's about taking baby steps and making a lasting impact on students' lives.

🌐 Community Connection: Church-Based Initiatives
Explore Lisa's connection with her church and the exciting possibilities of expanding work-based learning to benefit the community. It's not just about creating opportunities within schools but extending the impact to different campuses and settings.

🙏 Special Thanks to Our Sponsors
A heartfelt thank you to our generous sponsors,

Barbara Beck has been teaching Special Education at the secondary level for nearly 30 years. Her primary focus and deep passion is in seeing young adults who live with disabilities transition successfully from school-to-adulthood. Her Launch Buddies classes and podcast content are her way of deepening relationships while amplifying student/family and teacher voices.

For more information and resources on special education school-to-adulthood transition planning and independent living, visit www.mykeyplans.com. Join us on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and discussions about special education, inclusion, and disability advocacy. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn and use #IEPLaunchpadPodcast to join the conversation. Thank you for tuning in to the IEP Launchpad Podcast! 🎧🎙️#IDD #teaching #specialed #specialneeds #InclusionMatters #DisabilityAdvocacy #EmpowerVoices #edtech, #education #edtech, #teachers

In this episode of The FAST 15, Barb Beck interviews Tucker Mueck, a Board Certified Behavior Analyst with extensive experience in special education settings. Tucker's journey began in high school, where he participated in a mentoring program for students with special needs.  He is now the Director of District Partnerships for Specially Designed Education Services (SDES).

Key Points Discussed:

1. Early Mentoring Experience:

• Tucker shares his involvement in a high school mentoring program, emphasizing the power of personal connections and mentorship.
• Mentoring was focused on building relationships with students who needed extra support or a friend.

2. Transition to Special Education:

• After high school, Tucker pursued a degree in education but eventually switched to special education.
• He obtained his Master's in Special Education from Texas Tech University and developed a passion for working with students with autism and behavioral challenges.

3. Insights into Behavioral Analysis:

• Tucker worked in various settings, including private A.B.A. clinics, public schools, and in-home therapy.
• Describes a unique farm-like environment where movement and physical activities were integrated into learning, highlighting the importance of hands-on experience.
• Emphasizes the significance of understanding and analyzing behavior, providing insights into strategies like movement breaks and consistent communication.

4. Role as Director of District Partnerships:

• Currently serves as the Director of District Partnerships for S.D.E.S. and The Functional Academics Program.
• Travels the country, assisting teachers in implementing Functional Academic resources for students.

5. Encouraging Resilience and Consistency:

• Discusses the challenge of maintaining consistency, especially when fatigued, and encourages educators not to take behavioral challenges personally.
• Recommends having a bank of activities for days when energy is low and emphasizes the importance of releasing oneself from personalizing student behavior.

6. Functional Academics Program:

• Tucker shares his role in introducing teachers to the Functional Academics Program, describing it as a structured toolset that empowers teachers while providing flexibility.
• Highlights the upcoming tools to simplify data collection, making it more manageable for teachers.

7. Data Collection and Student Involvement:

• Acknowledges the difficulty of data collection in special education classrooms.
• Teases upcoming tools to make data collection easier and emphasizes involving students in understanding and celebrating their progr

Barbara Beck has been teaching Special Education at the secondary level for nearly 30 years. Her primary focus and deep passion is in seeing young adults who live with disabilities transition successfully from school-to-adulthood. Her Launch Buddies classes and podcast content are her way of deepening relationships while amplifying student/family and teacher voices.

For more information and resources on special education school-to-adulthood transition planning and independent living, visit www.mykeyplans.com. Join us on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and discussions about special education, inclusion, and disability advocacy. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn and use #IEPLaunchpadPodcast to join the conversation. Thank you for tuning in to the IEP Launchpad Podcast! 🎧🎙️#IDD #teaching #specialed #specialneeds #InclusionMatters #DisabilityAdvocacy #EmpowerVoices #edtech, #education #edtech, #teachers

Fast 15 Podcast Episode 2: The Role of Self-Advocacy in the IDD Community with Jeanette Lange - Part 2

📍 Hello, listeners! We're diving back into our conversation with Jeanette Lange, picking up from where we left off in our last episode. Join us as we explore crucial aspects of self-advocacy and healthcare decision-making in the IDD community.

Discussion Highlights:
In this episode, Jeanette discusses the importance of introducing technology and communication tools to individuals with IDD based on their readiness. She shares insights into Sam's journey, starting from using an iPad to navigating high-tech applications for adult life. The conversation emphasizes the significance of teaching self-advocacy and self-determination through functional academics, gradually incorporating technology as individuals progress.

The Transition Portfolio:
Jeanette introduces the Transition Portfolio, a comprehensive tool for individuals with disabilities and their families. She discusses its role in helping young adults plan for life after high school, emphasizing self-determination and the importance of ongoing updates.

The Role of School Nurses:
Jeanette advocates for greater involvement of school nurses in the IEP process and emphasizes the need for additional education and support for these professionals. The discussion acknowledges the vital role school nurses play in supporting individuals with IDD and their families.

The Future of Healthcare for IDD Individuals:
Looking to the future, Jeanette shares insights from her fellowship and envisions a healthcare system where professionals across various fields receive proper education to support individuals with IDD. The goal is to ensure that healthcare decisions are made collaboratively, considering the unique needs of each individual.

Closing Segment:
📍📍📍📍📍
Thank you for joining us on this insightful journey. Stay tuned for more impactful conversations, and don't forget to explore The Functional Academics Program at www.sdesworks.com. Until next time, this is the FAST 15 Podcast, transforming special education in just 15 minutes!

Barbara Beck has been teaching Special Education at the secondary level for nearly 30 years. Her primary focus and deep passion is in seeing young adults who live with disabilities transition successfully from school-to-adulthood. Her Launch Buddies classes and podcast content are her way of deepening relationships while amplifying student/family and teacher voices.

For more information and resources on special education school-to-adulthood transition planning and independent living, visit www.mykeyplans.com. Join us on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and discussions about special education, inclusion, and disability advocacy. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn and use #IEPLaunchpadPodcast to join the conversation. Thank you for tuning in to the IEP Launchpad Podcast! 🎧🎙️#IDD #teaching #specialed #specialneeds #InclusionMatters #DisabilityAdvocacy #EmpowerVoices #edtech, #education #edtech, #teachers

🎙️ Episode Show Notes: FAST 15 Podcast 🎙️

📍📍📍📍📍 Welcome to the FAST 15 podcast, your go-to source for game-changing tips, advice, and motivational tools tailored for special educators. Transform your special education classroom in just 15 minutes with insights from amazing educators. Proudly sponsored by Specially Designed Education Services (SDES), publishers of the Functional Academics Program, offering specially designed education services.

Key Points from the Episode:

📍📍 Jeanette's Unique Perspective: A nursing professional with 30 years of experience, specializing in pediatrics, NICU, oncology, and bone marrow transplant.

📍 Transitioning to Special Education: Jeanette shares her experience navigating the special education system with Sam, emphasizing the importance of self-advocacy and transition planning.

📍 Self-Determination and Self-Advocacy: The critical role of empowering young adults to advocate for themselves, especially in the context of the IDD community.

📍 Golisano Fellowship: Jeanette discusses her involvement in the nursing leadership program supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The focus is on educating healthcare professionals to provide inclusive and supportive care.

📍 Impact of Technology on Self-Determination: Jeanette's thesis explores the profound impact of technology, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, on the self-determination of individuals with IDD.

📍 Bridging the Gap: Addressing the challenges individuals face as they age out of pediatric programs and transition into adult healthcare, emphasizing the need for accessible and understanding medical services.

📍 The Future of Special Education: Highlighting the importance of integrating technology into transition curricula, preparing students for independent living and self-determined decision-making.

Don't miss part two of this enlightening conversation with Jeanette Lange, where she sheds light on the crucial role of school nurses and related service providers. Until then, continue being the champions that you are. Be well, and we look forward to bringing you more insights on the FAST 15 podcast.

📍📍📍📍📍

Barbara Beck has been teaching Special Education at the secondary level for nearly 30 years. Her primary focus and deep passion is in seeing young adults who live with disabilities transition successfully from school-to-adulthood. Her Launch Buddies classes and podcast content are her way of deepening relationships while amplifying student/family and teacher voices.

For more information and resources on special education school-to-adulthood transition planning and independent living, visit www.mykeyplans.com. Join us on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and discussions about special education, inclusion, and disability advocacy. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn and use #IEPLaunchpadPodcast to join the conversation. Thank you for tuning in to the IEP Launchpad Podcast! 🎧🎙️#IDD #teaching #specialed #specialneeds #InclusionMatters #DisabilityAdvocacy #EmpowerVoices #edtech, #education #edtech, #teachers

🧐  Have you ever wondered how students with intellectual and developmental disabilities carve their path beyond the confines of high school?

Leigh Laird joins us to unravel the journey of her son Michael, who, with the help of  Functional Academics, has taken significant strides towards independence and personal growth and is now continuing to develop his skills and journey at Judson University in the RISE program for students with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities.  . Together, we explore the powerful role of specialized educational strategies tailored to equip young adults with the essential life skills that many of us take for granted. From overcoming social withdrawal to mastering the intricacies of language with tools like Rosetta Stone, Michael's story is a testament to the adaptability and potential that lies within every individual.

Amidst the triumphs and challenges, our conversation sheds light on the meticulous process of preparing Michael for life's transitions, emphasizing the value of daily to-do lists and executive functioning skills that foster autonomy. We delve into the importance carefully navigated pathways and  Functional Academics, which is a beacon of hope for those navigating similar paths, and discuss how incredible preparatory post-secondary programs like Judson University's RISE are paving the way for the future.
 
Leigh's candid insights provide a massive dose of inspiration not only for parents and educators but also for anyone who believes in the transformative power of education and the bright horizons it can reveal.  #teaching #specialeducation #transitioncurriculum

Barbara Beck has been teaching Special Education at the secondary level for nearly 30 years. Her primary focus and deep passion is in seeing young adults who live with disabilities transition successfully from school-to-adulthood. Her Launch Buddies classes and podcast content are her way of deepening relationships while amplifying student/family and teacher voices.

For more information and resources on special education school-to-adulthood transition planning and independent living, visit www.mykeyplans.com. Join us on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and discussions about special education, inclusion, and disability advocacy. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn and use #IEPLaunchpadPodcast to join the conversation. Thank you for tuning in to the IEP Launchpad Podcast! 🎧🎙️#IDD #teaching #specialed #specialneeds #InclusionMatters #DisabilityAdvocacy #EmpowerVoices #edtech, #education #edtech, #teachers

🎙️ Episode Summary:

Welcome back to The FAST 15 podcast, delivering transformative tips for special educators in a quick 15-minute format. Sponsored by Specially Designed Education Services, this episode features Suzanne Fitzgerald, President and CEO of Specially Designed Education Services and author of the Functional Academics Program.

Key Points:

Part two of the discussion delves into progress monitoring and the pivotal role of data in supporting meaningful IEP goals. Suzanne explores the benefits of proficient data collection, highlighting its impact on decision-making, progress tracking, and effective communication with parents about goal progress.

Benefits of Progress Monitoring:

1. Informed Decision-Making: Proficient data systems aid decisions on advancing or modifying lessons based on student performance.
2. Concrete Evidence: Data offers tangible proof of IEP goal achievement, especially crucial for students with complex disabilities.
3. Support in Tough Conversations: Data facilitates discussions with parents, ensuring transparency and collaboration, especially when difficult decisions need to be made.

Team Approach to Data:

Suzanne underscores the importance of a whole-team approach, involving related service providers like speech language pathologists and physical therapists in data collection. Collaboration and consistency across the team are vital for effective progress monitoring.

Challenges of Progress Monitoring:

1. Building Data into Routine: The initial challenge lies in incorporating data collection into daily routines. Suzanne acknowledges the difficulty but emphasizes that once integrated, it becomes second nature.
2. Not Using Data Effectively: Collecting data is valuable only when actively used. Suzanne stresses the importance of regularly reviewing and acting upon the collected data for effective progress monitoring.

Closing Thoughts:

Progress monitoring, supported by proficient data collection, is critical for informed decision-making and tracking student progress. Suzanne acknowledges challenges but emphasizes solutions, hinting at upcoming tools within the Functional Academics Program.

 Barb encourages listeners to stay connected, support one another, and anticipates the upcoming tools designed to make progress monitoring more efficient within the Functional Academics Program.

Subscribe and stay tuned for more impactful discussions. Remember, you are not alone, champions of special ed! Until next time, be well and be kind.

📍 Special thanks to our sponsors, Specially Designed Education Services. Explore the only true comprehensive Functional Academics Program at www.sdesworks.com. 🌟

Barbara Beck has been teaching Special Education at the secondary level for nearly 30 years. Her primary focus and deep passion is in seeing young adults who live with disabilities transition successfully from school-to-adulthood. Her Launch Buddies classes and podcast content are her way of deepening relationships while amplifying student/family and teacher voices.

For more information and resources on special education school-to-adulthood transition planning and independent living, visit www.mykeyplans.com. Join us on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and discussions about special education, inclusion, and disability advocacy. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn and use #IEPLaunchpadPodcast to join the conversation. Thank you for tuning in to the IEP Launchpad Podcast! 🎧🎙️#IDD #teaching #specialed #specialneeds #InclusionMatters #DisabilityAdvocacy #EmpowerVoices #edtech, #education #edtech, #teachers

Welcome to another episode of The FAST 15 podcast, where we deliver transformative tips and motivation for special educators in just 15 minutes. Sponsored by Specially Designed Education Services, publishers of The Functional Academics Program, this episode features Suzanne Fitzgerald, President and CEO of Specially Designed Education Services and author of the Functional Academics Program.

Key Points:

• Suzanne brings 30 years of diverse experience in special education to the conversation.
• The discussion is split into two parts, focusing on writing meaningful IEP goals in this episode and progressing to the benefits and challenges of progress monitoring in the next.

Guest Introduction:

• Suzanne's journey began as a peer tutor, evolving into a camp counselor for children with disabilities, eventually leading to roles in recreational, residential, and vocational settings.
• Her decision to teach was confirmed during a year as a paraeducator in the Seattle School District. She later earned her teaching certification and master's in special education from the University of Washington.

Four Pillars of Meaningful Goals:

1. Social Connections: Suzanne emphasizes the need to prepare students for active social lives beyond school.
2. Service Opportunities: Advocating for purpose, Suzanne questions the impact of a lifetime where everything is done for a person. She stresses the importance of preparing students for jobs or customized volunteer opportunities.
3. Independence: Suzanne reflects on the significance of independence and autonomy in students' lives, irrespective of ability level.
4. Collaboration: Drawing from her experiences, Suzanne underscores the importance of a support network and collaboration, especially for families with fewer resources.

Goal-Setting Process:

• Suzanne's process involves developing a lesson or activity related to critical aspects of life and formulating a goal based on that. She follows personal teaching guidelines, ensuring goals are functional, meaningful, age-appropriate, and designed to improve students' quality of life.
• The guidelines include asking critical questions such as "Why am I doing this?" and ensuring goals are SMART.

Family Involvement:

• Suzanne collaborates with families to ensure goals align with their perspectives and are reinforced across all environments. Family agreement is crucial for comprehensive and effective support.

Closing Thoughts:

• Suzanne emphasizes that IEP goals should focus on social connections, service opportunities, independence, and collaboration to empower students for a fulfilled life and successful transition into adulth

Barbara Beck has been teaching Special Education at the secondary level for nearly 30 years. Her primary focus and deep passion is in seeing young adults who live with disabilities transition successfully from school-to-adulthood. Her Launch Buddies classes and podcast content are her way of deepening relationships while amplifying student/family and teacher voices.

For more information and resources on special education school-to-adulthood transition planning and independent living, visit www.mykeyplans.com. Join us on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and discussions about special education, inclusion, and disability advocacy. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn and use #IEPLaunchpadPodcast to join the conversation. Thank you for tuning in to the IEP Launchpad Podcast! 🎧🎙️#IDD #teaching #specialed #specialneeds #InclusionMatters #DisabilityAdvocacy #EmpowerVoices #edtech, #education #edtech, #teachers

🎤 Welcome to the FAST 15 Podcast
Welcome to the FAST 15 podcast, your go-to source for game-changing tips, advice, and motivational tools designed to transform your special education classroom in a quick 15-minute format. Proudly sponsored by Specially Designed Education Services (SDES), publishers of the Functional Academics Program.

🎤 Introduction of Guest: Lori Pollett
In this episode, Barb Beck and Darien Watson have the privilege of interviewing Lori Pollett, an influential figure in the field of special education. Lori, with over 40 years of experience, shares her insights into the evolution of special education, the significance of inclusion, the impact of technology, and the positive changes she has witnessed over the years.

⏰ Lori's Background in Special Education8Lori Pollett began her journey in special education as a teacher before transitioning into administration, driven by a passion to support teachers and ensure students receive a high-quality education. Her focus on providing resources to motivated teachers who lacked support has been a driving force throughout her career.

🎤 Positive Outcomes and Evolution of Technology
Lori highlights the positive outcomes she has witnessed over the years, especially in the realm of technology. The shift from paper-based systems to advanced technology has significantly enhanced the ways educators can reach and support students.

⏰ Inclusion in Special Education
The conversation delves into the transformative power of inclusion. Lori discusses the drastic changes from segregated classrooms to inclusive settings, emphasizing the importance of fostering inclusive opportunities for all students.

🎤 Hopeful Vision for the Future
Lori shares her personal journey with a family member with Down syndrome, expressing her hope and vision for a future where individuals with disabilities are fully included and can pursue their post-school dreams.

⏰ Encouragement for Teachers and Leaders
The episode concludes with a discussion on the importance of hope, vision, and leadership in the field of special education. Lori encourages educators and leaders to remain hopeful, embrace a vision for positive change, and continue supporting students to thrive in inclusive environments.

🎤 Closing Acknowledgment to Sponsors: SDES
A heartfelt thank you to Specially Designed Education Services, sponsors of the Functional Academics Program, for their unwavering commitment to making a difference in the lives of students with moderate to severe disabilities. To learn more about their comprehensive program, visit www.sdesworks.com.

Barbara Beck has been teaching Special Education at the secondary level for nearly 30 years. Her primary focus and deep passion is in seeing young adults who live with disabilities transition successfully from school-to-adulthood. Her Launch Buddies classes and podcast content are her way of deepening relationships while amplifying student/family and teacher voices.

For more information and resources on special education school-to-adulthood transition planning and independent living, visit www.mykeyplans.com. Join us on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and discussions about special education, inclusion, and disability advocacy. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn and use #IEPLaunchpadPodcast to join the conversation. Thank you for tuning in to the IEP Launchpad Podcast! 🎧🎙️#IDD #teaching #specialed #specialneeds #InclusionMatters #DisabilityAdvocacy #EmpowerVoices #edtech, #education #edtech, #teachers

📍 Welcome to the FAST 15 podcast, your go-to source for game-changing tips, advice, and motivational tools for special educators. Proudly sponsored by Specially Designed Education Services (SDES), the publishers of The Functional Academics program. Transform your special education classroom in just 15 minutes!

Introduction and Welcome
Host: Barb Beck https://sdesworks.com/about-us/
Guest: Michela Laverty, Professional Development Trainer at SDES

In this episode, Barb and Michela delve into the critical topic of generalizing skills outside the classroom, exploring Michela's experiences and strategies for making the Functional Academics Program more personalized.

Discussion with Michela Laverty on Curriculum and Teaching Methods

• Michela shares her initial experience with the Functional Academics Program and the need to personalize the curriculum.
• Emphasis on the importance of understanding and teaching skills in various ways, moving beyond a one-size-fits-all approach.

Differentiating Instruction and Generalizing Skills

• Michela highlights the significance of differentiated instruction and practical examples of teaching the "Dollar-Up Method."
• Exploring methods such as whole group instruction, small group activities, and real-world applications to enhance comprehension.

Leveraging Community Resources

• Michela shares insights on leveraging community connections to acquire materials, emphasizing the importance of being open and building relationships.
• Practical tips for acquiring materials on a budget, from printable money resources to community donations.

Making Functional Academics as Functional as Possible

• The importance of aligning curriculum with the students in front of you, adapting to their unique needs.
• Encouragement to seek help from interested individuals by leveraging their support for specific projects or needs.

Final Thoughts and Conclusion

• Michela encourages educators to stay open-minded, get resourceful, and not be afraid to ask for support.
• Emphasizes the dynamic nature of functional academics, requiring alignment with the current needs and abilities of students.

📍 A big thank you to Michela Laverty for her valuable insights. Tune in for more episodes, and remember, SDES is here to support you on your journey in special education.

📍 Visit www.sdesworks.com for a wealth of resources and information on The Functional Academics Program.

📍 Thank you for joining us on the FAST 15 podcast. Stay tuned for more game-changing content!

Barbara Beck has been teaching Special Education at the secondary level for nearly 30 years. Her primary focus and deep passion is in seeing young adults who live with disabilities transition successfully from school-to-adulthood. Her Launch Buddies classes and podcast content are her way of deepening relationships while amplifying student/family and teacher voices.

For more information and resources on special education school-to-adulthood transition planning and independent living, visit www.mykeyplans.com. Join us on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and discussions about special education, inclusion, and disability advocacy. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn and use #IEPLaunchpadPodcast to join the conversation. Thank you for tuning in to the IEP Launchpad Podcast! 🎧🎙️#IDD #teaching #specialed #specialneeds #InclusionMatters #DisabilityAdvocacy #EmpowerVoices #edtech, #education #edtech, #teachers