#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 9, 2016
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.
Hi, ! Jodi from Indiana. SpEd teacher in alternative HS placement & private AT/AAC consultant.
Hello Everyone! Tonya here from IN. Director of Sped. Love being a part of !
I'm Jean coming to you from northern Mn. I've been an edu SLP for 28 years.
Thanks for joining tonight, my friend! :)
Hi Jean! Glad to see you at this week!
Hello Jeremiah from SIoux Falls. School Psych and former coach.
Tonight's will discuss inclusion. Looking forward to great discussions.
Full inclusion? Thoughts? I'm not sure what to do and what happens when a student's skills are TOO low for mainstream.
Hi Jeremiah! Glad you are back this week for . Great topic on Inclusion!
Glad you could join us! I look forward to your input in tonight!
Hi! Laura with INI schools located in Indianapolis
Hang around for this discussion. Lots of great ideas and thoughts about inclusion during
Howdy from Huntsville, TX! I teach 8th gr Science - inclusion & resource
I excited to have an evening at home to participate.
Yay! Good to see you again. Thanks for moderating for me last week!
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!
Hi there! Welcome to . Is your 8th grade in Middle school?
Hi , we're the family to family health information center for Indiana, and also parents of CSHCN
Welcome to ! You picked a great night to join! :)
Q1: What does Inclusion mean to you? How do you define it?
A1: Inclusion is every student participating, learning, socializing, communicating, & thriving. Same place. Same time. Together.
Andrew, NYC, math teacher
A1: Inclusion means DOING the same thing in the same place, not rearranging a seating chart to sit in the same room together.
A1: Inclusion means social justice for all. It means full membership beyond the classroom walls. Equity is the goal.
A1: I define inclusion as opening doors that would otherwise remain closed.
Glad you could join tonight! :)
Hi ! I'm Rachel from NE Indiana. HS Sped Teacher and ED Consultant.
Hey Rachel! Great seeing you for tonight's . How's the weather in your neck of the woods??
I’m jumping back to some ending thoughts from while flipping over to
A1) Students participating in all aspects of school life to the best of their abilities with accommodations & modifications.
A1: Inclusion is about learning and living together and accepting differences. It's recognizing strengths. It's participation.
Not bad yet. Hoping for atleast a delay in the morning ;)
A1: inclusion to me is the only way to respect neurodiverse populations and different learners.
I can answer this... ;) Did it take you twice as long to get home tonight, too?
Participation is the key...love that word.
Yes! Inclusion is full membership! It is a unified system. https://t.co/XiW57jxp5N
A1: Inclusion means social justice for all. It means full membership beyond the classroom walls. Equity is the goal.
Q2: Do you believe in full inclusion? Why or Why not?
RT A1: inclusion to me is the only way to respect neurodiverse populations and different learners.
, I see you stalking ! Join us!! We miss you!!!!
, my own child was in a gen ed class, but she wasn't a meaningful participant, and she knew it.
A1: Inclusion means supporting Ss in a setting with scaffolding, modifications, and accommodations.
A2: I believe Ss should be included w/peers as much as possible, but some need some additional support/environment to meet goals.
A1:To me, inclusion means providing a comfortable space for all to be unique, collaborate, communicate, and learn w & from others
Great point and reminder. If it's not authentic then it's not working.
A2: Yes, b/c no research evidence to support segregated programs have significant benefits for students with Ds
A2: We absolutely believe full inclusion is possible.But we respect ppwd who make an informed choice that is less inclusive.
Sorry to join late Dianne from IL
A2: Full inclusion can happen with the appropriate supports, training and resources.
Hi Dianne. Thanks for joining in.
Glad you could join . Jump in anywhere!
A2) I believe inclusion is different for every student and needs to be an individual student decision.
Nicole here - joining as well!
A2: I would to see a unified system where students are able to interact without boundaries.
RT A2: I would to see a unified system where students are able to interact without boundaries.
This was my exact thinking. Full inclusion is wishful thinking without the framework to support it. https://t.co/q7cz7gjUuN
A2: Full inclusion can happen with the appropriate supports, training and resources.
Me too! Let's create one together and open it!
RT This was my exact thinking. Full inclusion is wishful thinking without the framework to support it.
Q3: What are the benefits to inclusionary practices for Ss?
A2: inclusion should be match to the level that meets the students needs and abilities.
I would LOVE to. I have seen your schools. You are getting close
A2 An inclusive environment can be successful with the correct supports by adults and strategies used by S
A2: Inclusion vs integration really depends on the individual learner and the type of environments & supports we can provide
A3: Ss work together w/every S's strengths &weaknesses. Ts can easily assume competence for all Ss when given same opportunities.
Just presented at CHIME, a model inclusive site.
A3: We know they are reciprocal for students with and without disabilities. Everyone learns how to support each other.
A3: Greater learning opportunities -- academic, social, behavioral. And higher expectations.
RT Just presented at CHIME, a model inclusive site.
True We can't put a Ss into gen. ed and expect everyone to be successful without the correct tools and support.
A3. I always saw a lot of social benefits for both general education and special education students
Wish more schools were implementing even the BASIC coteaching models, not just OT-OS
A3. Equity! having the benefit of content specialist and special ed teachers as individual learning coaches
Q4: What are the challenges to inclusionary practices for Ss?
A3) Classroom T knows all students,, understanding differences, learning for peers, the SpEd T expertise can be used for all S.
A3: benefits include the opportunity 2 just B like one of the kids. As well as the opportunity not held down, back, or oppressed
A3: All Ss become members of their community
A3: Inclusion & integrated classes should model a real world community, well with more empathy, better communication& celebration
A4: Challenge may be school saying no to inclusion or not fully supporting for success. Ts need staff, training, & materials.
A4:Using the word “can’t” --it’s a barrier. “Shouldn’t” is about the Ss but can’t is about the system--we have to move beyond this
A4: Moving S into environment sans supports, teacher training, and peer awareness. Cannot just drop in.
Shoot, I am way late! Is Tuesday at 9PM Eastern your usual time?
A4. Helping students with disabilities not become discouraged when they see some content
Yes, it is our time! No worries...just jump right in and welcome to !
they are already one of the kids...they have more in common than they have differences
A4. Foundational skill deficits that make the gen Ed standards difficult to master without scaffolded support
Yes, 9pm EST every Tuesday, but jump in anywhere & join tonight's !
Just want to share that we chat inclusive ed. in every Tue right before from 8:30-9pm EST. Hope you’ll come next week!
A2: unfortunately, I don't believe any pedagogical model is completely right for all learners.
A4: Working backwards to design lessons and environments that actually support diverse learners.
A4: challenges - not making Ss seem different, when a S refutes help & oral admin to large groups
A4: the challenge is meeting the needs of ALL students and challenging those who need a challenge & celebrating even little things
A4: Challenges to inclusion can be lack of resources to create a supportive environment.
Totally agree. Celebrating the little success because they may just be the biggest successes in disguise! :)
A4) When it is done to save $$. Lack of the resources to support all the learners.
That’s the beauty of differentiation, though…right?
I was a gen ed teacher and they absolutely need training and supports to be successful.
Q5: How do school leaders set the tone and build school culture for inclusive practices with students?
a4: The BIGGEST challenge is teachers that have classes that are nothing but lectures and note taking.
A5) By interacting with all students and by providing the training to T.
Those classes can't be benefiting ANY students, so inclusion may be the best thing to happen there!
A5: Leaders who remember all Ss & plan school & ALL activities to ensure all Ss equally included create culture of inclusion.
A5: Going beyond sweeping statements to addressing barriers, looking for solutions, and giving staff the skills to accomplish it
A5: Leaders who believes EVERY Ss matters and shows this belief in all decisions. Tchrs will follow this lead.
A.6 if school leaders make it a priority then everyone else will. They lead the pack!
yes, but I also don't necessarily believe school is right for every learner. goes beyond school.
I KNEW I was missing a chat! Hope to be on time, one day. Hopping in!
Leadership is key for success. Teachers need resources, support, flexibility and the belief system.
Just be careful the kid doesn't drown in the mainstream (that's the title of a blog post I wrote) https://t.co/YU6SbzUCvM
A5: By creating a culture that values learning and not test scores.
A4: by making it a priority. By promoting. By talking it up. By treating it as something it real and not just a have to.
Welcome back to ! Hey check out Delia's handle...the best! :)
A5:a culture for inclusive practices involves global teaching & modeling w positive interactions, empathy, kindness, & be unique
A5: School leaders set the tone for inclusion by being inclusive. Period. Walk the walk.
A5. Shared responsibility and STUDENT-not adult centered decision making lead to inclusion successful
The admin KNOWS the Ss, not just another number. They know and celebrate celebrate their successes!
A6 SpEd Ts need to be a huge part of the planning for classrooms with high needs.
I love this! https://t.co/o2xRPv6UgH
A5. Shared responsibility and STUDENT-not adult centered decision making lead to inclusion successful
Q6: How can teachers create classrooms that are welcoming and respectful of one another’s diverse needs?
A6: Tchers can use the principles of Universal Design to meet the needs of all students
A6 By being welcoming themselves.
A6: When Ts anticipate & plan for weaknesses/needs of every S, they support all Ss. If needed by one, will likely benefit another.
A6: Build a strong foundation -- social skill development, respect, listening skills, diverse teaching materials
A6) By ensuring that all learners have equal respect and opportunities to meaningfully participate.
A6: Embrace and celebrate diversity through practice and instruction. Emphasize student strengths and build support when needed.
A6: Expressing that everyone gets what they need to learn and then exploring tools, strategies, etc. to meet unique needs.
A6 by recognizing that one size does NOT fit all, no matter how inclusive the room. And by not being afraid to ask for help
A5: Leaders make informed decisions based upon the "whole child" & create opportunities to communicate & celebrate whole child
A6: Great word...respect. Teachers need to demonstrate. Classes must be rooted in it. And understanding differences.
A6: Being flexible. Providing choice. By differentiating. By allowing students to create. By providing opportunities.
A6: creating a true student-centered culture of and collaboration
RT A6: creating a true student-centered culture of and collaboration
So many great chats tonight!
a6 Recognizing that the real long term goal is a mainstream adulthood. Different routes to that goal are OK
I applaud you sir for taking a BOLD step for those in your state in SpecEd
I too like this idea, but feel that our teacher prep. programs need modified for something like this to be successful.
A6: Our classrooms should make ALL children feel like they are "home" We care for & teach students like they are our own children.
Q7: What is the sped teacher's role in impacting inclusion practice & decisions?
A7: SpEd T has to see opportunities, work to make them happen, & support Ts & Ss continuously to maintain success & progress.
Q7: To advocate for every Ss to have opportunities. If we don't speak up, who will?
, I was a gen ed teacher and had NO teacher prep for students w/ dis. Disappointing. https://t.co/7lgq1eltVG
I too like this idea, but feel that our teacher prep. programs need modified for something like this to be successful.
A7) SpEd T need to advocate for the S with special needs to ensure that their needs are met.
A6: Being honest with your class. Discussing compassion for ea other & diff learning needs. No shame in being diff!
A7: I believe a true inclusive classroom doesn't have specialized teacher roles. All teachers service all kids!
A7 Sped teachers have lots of special training. Need to share it in ways that include the gen ed teacher
A7: An advocate for students, supporter of teachers, liason for parents, collaborator with school personnel
My undergrad is in gen ed. I had 1 Sped class. I feel all Ts need more Sped experience.
Q7: fight for it. Be part of lesson design 4 the class to make sure Ss needs are meet. Always be “reminding” Ts of Ss needs.
Teacher training is so important! Inclusion is a hybrid of gen ed/special ed.
A7 recognize that different teachers (like students!) have different strengths. Let each use strengths to accommodate weaknesses
A7: Bring that knowledge of diverse learning and instruc approaches. Be relentless about collaboration and planning
A7: Anticipating the environmental & social needs that will arise. Adapting curriculum to make it accessible for all Ss.
So true. A special education teacher must be all these things! https://t.co/lhNcd9fk3Y
A7: An advocate for students, supporter of teachers, liason for parents, collaborator with school personnel
that's one more than I got. It sets expectation from the start that Ss won't be included.
Looks like a great resource, thanks for sharing.
Q8: If you work in inclusion setting, do you have tips for making sure you are available to all your Ss & support all teachers?
A7: We should be communicating & collaborating with co teacher, therapists, family, etc to create best models for students
So true! Special educators wear so many hats https://t.co/CXHk0d6681
A7: An advocate for students, supporter of teachers, liason for parents, collaborator with school personnel
A7. Know learning targets, fill in gaps. Advocate for the learning not tutor through the product
A8: We communicate frequently. Ts text me as issues arise. We collect and analyze data as a team and collaborate weekly.
A8: Ask, beg for common planning time and a manageable load to develop coteaching approaches that are powerful over convenient
Totally agree. This was the BEST part of my week. Makes a huge difference
A8: I work w/classroom teacher to float among the Ss. We check for mastery a lot. And we monitor & adjust throughout the lessons.
I love "not tutor through the product" because that's what so often actually happens!
- great approach and responsive to student needs!
A8 focus on the learning needed not the project. Scaffold support to learn skills
Q9: When implementing IEPs in inclusion settings, do you utilize co-teaching, push-in, or use paras for most classroom support?
A9: I try to work w/high-need Ss as push-in/co-teacher & use paras w/milder Ss to maximize my skills/training where most needed.
I love to scaffold and communicate individual expectations vs whole class expectations. Also, encourage giving students more time
A9: My experience w/paras w/severe Ss means S sat/watched, rather than engaged in learning. Paras need intense training/coaching.
Wait time is my favorite.
Paras too often are very low paid and poorly trained. But some of them are GREAT with huge intuition for kids
So true and sometimes we use teachers the same way. One teach one assist can become predominant. https://t.co/mO9T0mKdP1
A9: My experience w/paras w/severe Ss means S sat/watched, rather than engaged in learning. Paras need intense training/coaching.
BTW, without special ed teachers, I'd have committed suicide. Just so you know :-) I love teachers
They are my right and left arms. My paras are amazing, but low pay & training. They hold the school together.
Thanks for letting me swing by chat tonight. I need to head out early. Let's all make a difference in a S life tomorrow.
A9: Co-teaching is most beneficial to all Ss. Push in & pull out work too. Depends on objectives and pre req skills.
A9: For mod Ss our para's go with Ss & modify as gen ed Ts teach. Ss are engaged. Ss learn content, not just social skills.
A9: I co-teach full time in class and do it all! No need to use paras when I'm in all day. :)
I'm blessed to work with 2 awesome teachers. Our coteaching models vary depending on indiv student strengths/needs & the lessons
That's what I do in my current position. I'm a glorified para or stuck in the resource room.
A8: we use Paras in life skills & transition support with teachers in the class.
Paras are esp important when there are cultural differences btwn teachers and kids. Paras from community = win!
A9: I also think pull out is vital though for those kiddos really needing pre req but not in a more rest. enviro like life skills
Yes sometimes we forget that life skills can be taught in a natural setting like the community & that too is inclusion.
Q10: What is your biggest take-away from tonight? Something you would liked or learned.
don't forget this Thursday at 9pm EST is chatting about maximizing co-teaching in math class!
A10 That this chat is here! I'll be back! I am a product of special education
So glad you joined us. Your voice is so important to this conversation!
A10: There is still a lot a variability in how inclusion is implemented despite knowing ways to do it effectively.
A10: other states and districts are doing things very different. But we’re all but we’re all doing it for the kids.
A10: I'm speaking as a mom and not my org.....some of the comments make me realize we have a way to go. Most of them give me hope.
Thanks! Next week I will be at but I will try to join this from my hotel room
You should have seen what it was like 50 years ago. Oy vey!
A10: Inclusion must be cultivated through leadership, collaboration, design and instruction. Lots to think about.
I think we must work together to give ALL children the most amazing supportive,motivating,engaging learning experiences & Have fun
, I'm sure that's true......but still room for improvement.
A10: First and I'm loving the discussion! I will certainly be back!! :)
A10: Humans are all different. Inclusion isn't pretending we all learn in the same environment. Everyone can learn, together.
Always pushing, growing, and moving forward is the goal!
I appreciate that you're all willing to share and learn.... thank you.
So glad you joined us. Hope you will be back for
Time to wrap up tonight! Thanks for the great dialogue & collaboration. Continue to use the hashtag as you finish your chats.
Great chat. See you next week
Thank YOU for offering your voice here. It's so important to the conversation.
We will storify this chat and post later tonight so you can catch any missed tweets & check out all the posted links & resources.
I enjoyed hearing your thoughts tonight too. Thanks!
Please join me as I guest moderate tomorrow at 8 pm. Would love support! I'm bringing back JOY! https://t.co/ZwIMOFz24j
See you Tuesday, 2/16, at 9:00 pm EST for the next chat.
A4: when the classroom teacher expects U2 handle their class management when they don’t have a system or support U!
