#spedchat Archive
#spedchat is a Twitter hashtag used for (1) daily, continuous research and resource sharing on issues related to and effecting students with disabilities, & (2) a scheduled weekly Twitter chat on Tuesday nights from 9:00-10:00 EST.
Tuesday February 16, 2016
Glad you'll be joining ! :) We'll start in 3 minutes.
Can't wait for you to join us tonight! It's TONS of fun. See you in 2 minutes.
Time for my first tonight!
Welcome to - Introduce yourself, tell where you are from, & what you do. Don't forget to use the hashtag for each tweet.
Welcome to - Introduce yourself, tell where you are from, & what you do. Don't forget to use the hashtag for each tweet.
Symsonia Elementary--resource teacher K-2
Welcome to . Glad you are joining us!
Britt Eddy special educator, 6th grade in Massachsetts! Hi everybody
Josh Fish-Shakopee Senior High School-Resource Teacher
I am a Grove City College Early Ed and Special Ed major in PA.
Hi Britt! Welcome back to
Hi, ! Jodi from Indiana. SpEd teacher in alternative placement HS & private AT/AAC consultant.
Henrico,VA preschool PEDD
Tonight's will discuss school-wide and classroom discipline strategies. Looking forward to great discussions.
Hi ! I'm Danielle from Indianapolis. Special education coordinator at
I am Charlotte. I teach in a 7-9th grade middle school. I teach students first, then Eng and reading 1st through 3rd grade readers
Hey Everyone! Tonya here from Indiana! I am a Director of Special Education and thrilled to see so many new faces tonight for .
Good evening ! I'm Rachel, SpEd teacher, AT enthusiast & ED consultant from NE Indiana.
Thanks for joining tonight!
Glad you could join ! Should be a great chat tonight! :)
Chris Price - Huntsville, tx Inclusion/resource for Science.
first night chatting, too. I work in SPED for a regional program in Hampton Roads. We serve many of the Tidewater cities in VA
So glad you are joining ! Hope you learn a lot tonight! :)
Hi Charlotte! Welcome..I love MS students! :)
Glad you are joining us for tonight!
I love that you teach students first! Welcome to ! :)
We will post questions as Q1, Q2, etc.. Please tweet your response with A1, A2, etc. Don't forget to add to each tweet!
We will post questions as Q1, Q2, etc.. Please tweet your response with A1, A2, etc. Don't forget to add to each tweet!
Howdy - Rachel from Wyoming!
I'm Jean an SLP from north west MN.
Hiya, Rachel! Glad you are joining us for
Hi everyone! Laura here with INI schools in Indianapolis
I taught my first 5 years in middle school & about 4 other years in mixed HS/MS (which I do currently)! LOVE MS!
Q1: What is your philosophy on discipline in the classroom and school environment?
Hey ! Nikki Morrow from Indianapolis..Inclusion teacher at Decatur Middle School.
A1-Positive reinforcement as much as possible!
A1: I honestly can say that I have not had any major discipline issues (I hope I am not jinxing myself) I teach mutual respect.
A1) It is all about the relationships and having spent enough time proving to kids you care.
A1. I remember learning in college that you can't teach students who are not listening. Simple yet profound
A1: My philosophy on discipline is that it needs to help teach/form a better behavior or it's pointless. How is it helping Ss?
A1: Be fair, be respectful, be kind and preserve the relationship with the student.
A1-as much positive reinforcement as possible. Our school does a school wide PBIS
Ryan, Alternative Instruct. coord. Gahanna, Ohio
A1-Relationships are key. If students trust and respect you can set boundaries with them. Also, don't get mad often!
A1: ALl students want to do the right thing just may have some challenges meeting that goal. Be respectful of their needs
A1: We use a lot of ABA prinicipals which emphasize positive reinforcement - social praise often paired with tangibles at first
A1: No learning takes place under behavior is under control. Relationships, Relationships, Relationships!
A1: "Kids do well IF they can"
A1: Respect the student's dignity in each and every circumstance
A1: I love positive reinforcement and encouragement. I try to use them as much as I can.
A1: Students are free to make choices, choices have consequences. Consequences and disciple should be clear, concise & respectful
A1: I find that many discipline issues relate to lagging skills students have. That's why relationships with students are vital
Q2: In your opinion, what are the 3 key things any discipline plan (school wide or classroom) should include?
A1: Give respect, get respect. Relationships build...eliminates much of the need for discipline
I totally agree. "lagging skills" sounds like Ross Green! :) Are you familiar?
A2-Boundaries, consequences, and structure.
A1: Students have to feel like you are on their side, then you will start to see zero behavioral problems.
Agreed. It all starts and stops with the relationship.
A2: clear expectations, clear consequences and my personal wish, an element of restorative justice (how u going to fix it?)
Q2: reinforcers, opportunity for redemption, structure
A2: Consistency, fair, meaningful. Discipline without purpose is pointless.
A1: I have minimal discipline issues due to relationships. Know the kids, they know you, they know class norms.
A2: Respect, encouragement, and clear expectations.
A2: clear expectations, data tracking, and a second chance
A1: I don't believe in a "one-size-fits-all" discipline policy. Disciplinary actions should be individualized as well
A2: Keys to disciplining 1) Listen to WHOLE story (all versions). 2) Respect all involved. 3) Plan WITH Ss for how to do better.
Q2--respect, (school, self and others), clear expectations in ever setting, encouragement
A2: clear, consistent, fair guidelines…an ability to make it better..I hate taking away dances or EOY field trips!!
understanding where the student is coming from, respecting that and then private conversation to help understand the problem.
A2: Less talking, "How can I help you?", and teaching in the moment.
A1: Relationships are key to building respect. Keep your expectations clear.
A2: If they feel backed in the corner, empower them. Remind them rules and that we (the teachers) aren't getting them in trouble.
A2: clear expectations, model behaviors, positively reinforce desired behaviors chat if I got a 4th - teach replacement 1's
Totally agree. I am mildly obsessed. :) (PS-He spoke in Indy this past fall...was amazing!)
A2: Antecedent management (how you curb the bx); replacement bx serving the same function; consequence when behavior occurs (ABC)
A2: Clear expectation, meaningful instruction of expectations and positive reinforcement
Q3: What are some schoolwide discipline battles you feel are often not worth fighting?
Many times, less is more and as the adult in the situation you just need to be quiet.
AGREED! Sometimes my advice to a teacher is to just stop talking!
Agreed with 4th. Often we just say NO instead of how about this instead.
A3: To me, battles of dress code, swear words, & things that don't truly hinder others' ability to learn don't always need fought.
A3: Gum chewing….Ridiculous battle
A2: Clear expectations that are effectively modeled, student involvement in creating expectations, and consistency
A3: Chewing Gum....worst battle ever!
A3: Chewing Gum....worst battle ever!
A3: Haircolor, ripped jeans, and chewing gum.
A3: dress code...belts and tucked in shirts have always been the last thing on my mind
A3: In our area at HS level, appropriate attire was an issue this fall. No leggings aloud... not sure that is a battle to fight.
Q4: Do you feel students gain/learn anything from suspensions? Does behavior really change upon return?
A3: Always important to pick your battles...with the little ones I don't have many...refusal to move centers
I wish I could double like this comment
I scraped gum off 3 desktops and 4 book bindings today. I'm reconsidering the value of fighting this battle!
A4: at previous school, the cell phone battle was pointless!!
A3) I try not sweat the small stuff. You can't be knit picky on things that don't impact the learning or culture.
A3: Dress code...such as having a student shut down or sent out of class for an untucked shirt is maddening
A3-We haven't had any major ones, hats in the hallways are hard. What if you don't know the student? Is it worth the battle?
A4: I'm in MS and HS and some students view suspension as vacation!
A3 Delayed reinforcement and working for rewards that are not intrinsically meaningful
A4: suspensions solve nothing-just gives the teacher a break. Nothing changes unless something in the environment is different
A3: I like them all. I just make sure that I do what I ask of my students.
Wow! What on earth do the girls wear then??
Q4: quite the opposite. It results in a loss of very valuable instructional time and never truly solves the underlying issue
A4: Suspensions rarely serve purpose other than escape from learning. ESPECIALLY suspensions to punish for absences/tardies?!?!
A4: It depends on the infraction. Sometimes the student needs a timeout and counseling when they return. Other times other methods
Exactly! Hey, you don't come to school so we are now not going to let you. Makes total sense! Ugh.
This one has always been funny to me. Does no one look at functions of Bx when they suspend?!??!
A4. Suspensions started back during the one room schoolhouse days as a break for the teacher!
A2: Positive behavior reinforcements, flowchart for consequences, clear behavior expectations
I would have to teach naked.
no. It's plain dumb. You can address the behavior w/o missed class time
I couldn't agree more! No learning takes place if we suspend but I understand that Admin's hands are tied sometimes.
A4: Suspensions have there place IF the punishment fits the crime, like safety. There must be consequences for serious behaviors.
A4-I think it depends on the situation. Sometimes the disruptive student gives the other students a break!
totally agree with that statement
But the disruptive student doesn't learn how to be less disruptive while sleeping in & watching soap operas at home.
A4: No...they're out of the learning environment which goes against sped plus teaches nothing.
Agreed, this wasn't at my school, but it was all over the local news this fall.
The other students also need to learn how to help support their "disruptive" peer. Peer modeling is best instruction!
a4: Not a big suspension fan. Kids don't improve. My admin is not for it for the most part.
So, what's the alternative? How do we move the position?
A3: Yet, some w/ sensory issues may need it. Yes, there are OT alternatives yet gum is sometimes what's needed.
Completely agree, just mentioning it can have interesting side effects for classroom dynamics for a few days
My school is legging-free, too. I wear them under dresses almost daily, though. ;)
Totally agree! It's why I never fight the gum battle. It's not worth it and many kids benefit from it.
I try to apply the most natural and logical alternative for the situation. It varies by situation and student.
A4: Alternatively, we have in-house and boy do the kids hate it.. All their work goes down and they must complete it
Agreed. Yet so many teachers refuse - all kids will want it. Tired of that rationale.
It can, but then Ss may bully or pick on the S when he/she returns. S is part of class & all need to make it work.
In house seems like it may be more effective! At least they are still in the building!
Q5: Think of the administrator/teacher you have seen discipline Ss extraordinarily well. What do they do that works?
Q4: Depends on the student and situation.
I find that in-school suspension is a holding cell w/no learning or interventions happening.
A5) They use natural and logical responses to the situation that help the students involved learn. As educators that is our job.
a5: relationship. Having the student be part of the conversation & not just consequences.
We have an in-house and it's very effective. Students don't fear it and some use it as a study hall to finish tests or quizzes
A5: Meet kids where they are-what they need and build the relationship prior to the need to discipline...kids know who likes them
A5: I think it depends on the class and the situation. always listens and never yells
A5: The ones who realize that behavior and consequence don't have to go together.
I'm more for ISS, too! Ss don't miss the work, and they lose the attention they receive from their peers.
A3: I feel Ss need to learn that bx has consequences, suspension is not the answer for a pattern of bx. It then needs a bx plan.
It sure beats sending them to catch up on ‘Days’…We can check in, answer ? about work, etc..
https://t.co/LPpvo73KQF
In house seems like it may be more effective! At least they are still in the building!
Shocking, right? "Your attendance is so important, we're not letting you attend to prove its importance."
A5: Listens calmly. Gives physical space. Smiles. Allows child to speak. Offers options. Does not threaten.
Q6: hear the student out first which then allows for open and honest communication between the two parties. Relationships!
Q5: They stay calm and think about all sides.
Is it used as a consequence or more of a place that Ss can chose to go to?
A5: Effective Ts use effective questions when dealing with student behavior. Make it a teachable moment. Teach Ss to self monitor.
A5: Remembers that all problem behaviors are an attempt to send a message
A5: They don't belittle or humiliate the students, but acknowledge their side as well.
One of my Ss was expelled b/c of an incident stemming from him trying to hide in ISS to escape class.
A5:
Remain calm, not buying into behavior or attitude, allowing child to speak, understanding where the behavior is coming from
A5:as an admin who works w/sped kids a lot,flexibility to both the student & situation are important.Every kid & sit is unique
A5: I think a lot of it has to do with knowing your students
Appreciate your perspective!
Q6: What are your best tips for effective discipline in your classroom and school-wide?
A5: hear the student out first which then allows for open and honest communication between the two parties. Relationships!
Who works with them? Do their Ts have time to do that during that school day? Do they get SpEd Ts?
A5: have the student be an equal member in forming/identifying the solution to the behavior
A6) Be visible, build relationships, and spend time teaching routines so everyone knows what is expected of them.
A5:relationships are key w/this group of kids. If they see you as the enemy,it's tough to get them on right path
A5: They have mutual respect. They know what sets S off and they steer clear. Allows the S to express their feeling/work 2 resolve
A6: clearly defined norms for classroom and campus. All Ts hold to them. No weak links. It confuses kids
A6: Positive reinforcement, good relationships with child, understanding the needs of child
A6: Provide instruction & support for deficits that lead to bx problems. Use visuals to teach self monitoring. Be clear and fair
No, I don't think they do. Suspensions are a punishment for what they did, not a look at why or how to not do it again.
A6: Teaching routines early will save a lot on the back end...positive relationships and reinforcers!
if you understand the function of the behavior you will understand what the child needs.
Consistency is the key. Ss do better when they know what to expect.
A6: Respect and understanding.
A6: Get to know the students. Build a relationship. Teach them to trust you. And respect them always.
A6: have consistent and fair expectations. Students will rise to the level that they are expected to. Praise for positive behavior
A6: Respect. Give it and get it. It is nice to be nice… Treat others as you would like to be treated
I do better next when admin is consistent!
A6: Positive reinforcement. Offer choices. Agree with using visuals to self-monitor. Cool down area within classroom.
Q7: If you had to tell a new teacher the top 3 things TO DO in classroom discipline, what would they be?
A6: You said the key word Danielle...trust. Vitally important when discipline/behavioral issues are involved.
A5 Ts who remember to look at the fx of the bx and don't hang kids out to dry in front of their peers as a lesson to others
a6: strong student:teacher relationships, team work and a positive approach
A6: go into a situation with the mindset that no student WANTS to act out..there is always a root cause of misbehavior
A7: Be consistent, be positive, build relationships
A7) Build Relationships, Teach Routines, and every day is a new day no matter what.
A7: Respect, don’t get emotional, and separate the behavior from the child
This is SO important. Respect means allowing Ss way to save face. NEVER humiliate for any reason. Never. https://t.co/1iED7Gje1D
A5 Ts who remember to look at the fx of the bx and don't hang kids out to dry in front of their peers as a lesson to others
A7: Remember it's not about you. Behavior is communication--find out what they are saying.
A7: Listen. Count to 3 before you respond. Remember that tomorrow is a new day.
A7: Clear expectations, Positive reinforcement, consistency.
A6:consistency doesn't have to mean equal in terms of consequence.Addressing behaviors in a fair manner will help w/school climate
A7 -- patience, listen, consistency
A7: Teach expectations, self-monitoring and provide frequent positive reinforcement. Then have a backup plan if that doesn't work
A7: be fair, be honest follow through on what you say
A7: Classroom Discipline: 1. Clear expectations developed w/S input. 2. Respect. 3. Listen. Listen Again. Think. Then Talk.
follow through is so important!
a7: build strong relationships, set clear expectations, use calm approach
The answers to this question are very helpful! I will make sure to keep them in mind when I get my own classroom.
Q8: If you had to tell a new teacher 3 things NOT to do in classroom discipline (aside from illegal methods), what would they be?
A8: Be reactionary, public shaming, raise your voice..
A8: Play favorites. Be disingenuous. And act like you don't care.
A8: Don't take it personal, Don't get discouraged, Don't sabotage your plans :)
A8: Do not shame a student. Do not make jokes of things they worry about. Do not take it personally.
This. It's NEVER about you. No matter how colorful the words used toward you. Listen to the behavior. https://t.co/3IIfDThj6h
A7: Remember it's not about you. Behavior is communication--find out what they are saying.
A8: To new Ts: Avoid power struggles, be careful not to reinforce negative behaviors, and don't make empty threats.
A8: No shaming! And don't take anything personal....it's never about you!
A8: do not yell, do not disrespect students in front of peers,and do not argue with students, it gets you nowhere .
A8: Discipline NOT To Do: 1. Take it personally. 2. Act out of anger or frustration. 3. Punish instead of teach better way.
Agree! No power struggles, ever!
a8: never overreact, yell/raise your voice or be inconsistent
most referrals come from teachers taking things personally. Not the actual incident itself.
A7:Be consistent on addressing behaviors,Be fair,Be a good listener first.
A8) Throw a students out, disrespect a student, and it isn't you vs. the student it the students disability.
This is very true. I have to check myself for this very thing quite frequently. It's hard!! https://t.co/VlYOABlsfq
most referrals come from teachers taking things personally. Not the actual incident itself.
A8: never take misbehavior personally, never be reactive with consequences when there is better solution and NO power struggles
Q9: Does your school do anything special discipline-wise that you absolutely love (or loathe)?
A9) Discipline is my building is personalized to the
S and situation to ensure that it is a learning situation. I love this!
The Ss who misbehave the most are often the ones who need US the most! Don't give up!
A9: Kids can always redeem themselves...they never have to end on a sour note-they can always "clip" up by making better choices
a9: we don't Max it. We don't have a kid. Even for mandatory DEAP, we do it but bring the kids back early.
A9: I am never, ever, EVER okay w/expelling a student. I just can't give up on a kid like that. "You aren't worth it." :'(
A9: I love how the admin works with our Ss. They give respect and keep the Ss dignity intact while teaching the Ss better ways.
everyone uses the same system...we recite the expectations every morning
A9: Productivity meetings for students not meeting expectations! Very beneficial!
a7: 1.get to know ALL students 2. set clear expectations 3. build and maintain trust
A9: My school has someone available to counsel Ss about behavior & we can send anyone out for that in lieu of "being in trouble."
A9: I do like how our administrators allow me to join meetings regarding my Ss. I put the S at ease and they are always respectful
Oh, man, I miss productivity meetings! My Ss get them, but think I'm torturing them for no reason. ;)
a9: every child is respected and involved in the decision
Q10: Share your biggest tip, suggestion, and take-away from tonight’s discussion on discipline!
A9: We have school wide reward system reinforcing positive behavior while misbehavior is handled in an very individualized manner
A10: Building relationships is the key to building an effective classroom management system. Know your students!
A10: Always build students up, never ever tear them down or humiliate them!
thanks everyone!it was fun
A10: everyone on the same page. Every kid gets a second chance. Then they get a fresh start. Be consistent. Model what you want.
A9: We have a school wide reward system reinforcing positive behavior while misbehavior is handled in a very individualized manner
Thanks for joining . Hope to see you again!
Great discussion! Thanks everyone!
a10: be calm and consistent, set clear expectations, respect the child and involve them in decisions
Thanks for joining us for . Hope to see you again soon.
A10: Positivity, understanding the needs of Ss build good relationships, I love the positive feedback from tonight"s discussion
Time to wrap up tonight! Thanks for the great dialogue & collaboration. Continue to use the hashtag as you finish your chats.
Thanks for joining us tonight for . Hope to see you again!
It was great to observe and participate tonight's on discipline.
thanks for a great discussion and my first
Thanks for joining us for . Hope to see you again soon!
Thank you. This was a great experience for my first time to a chat. Happy Trails :)
We will storify this chat and post later tonight so you can catch any missed tweets & check out all the posted links & resources.
See you Tuesday, 2/23, at 9:00pm EST for the next .
A10: develop those trusting relationships where no matter what the student knows you're in their corner. The rest comes naturally
A10: Always be respectful to your students, encourage them and build relationships with them.
Really enjoyed my first ! I'll definitely be tuned in next week 😃
Thanks for joining us for ! See you next week. :)
