#ALedchat Archive
#ALedchat is a weekly chat on Twitter about education topics. It is held each Monday from 9-10pmCST. While the discussion on #ALedchat continues on Twitter well beyond our weekly one-hour chat session, this platform affords us the opportunity to extend, expand and share the conversation with an even greater audience. Educators from across the state of Alabama, and the world, can come here to find encouragement, support, resources, professional growth opportunities and advice, while providing the same to their colleagues.
Monday March 21, 2016
Welcome to . Please tell us who you are and where you are tweeting from tonight. Include your role in education. Welcome all!
Holly Sutherland, Principal at Haleyville, HS. Co-founder of this chat and . Welcome all to our chat tonight!
Kendrick Myers, AP at Opelika High School
Emile Aiton, Haleyville HS, Special Education
Christy Bice, AP at Haleyville Elementary and co-moderator for . Excited to be learning with you all tonight!
Darrin Lett, CT Director, Florence City Schools!
Melissa Mann, collaborative teacher Madison County Schools
Glad you are here! We need you tonight!
We will follow the Q1…Q2…A1…A2… format. Questions will be presented from 9-9:30 with a blab immediately following. Join us!
Jimmy Shaw A.S. co-^moderator of
Always great to have you with us, Kendrick!
Mike Nitzel, Elem Principal tweeting from Coal Valley, IL. Hello, !
Michael Lee, Principal at Clay-Chalkville High School
Deidre Jefferson Assistant Principal Mobile County
Tonight's chat is 9-9:30, with a live stream afterwards on Blab.im. https://t.co/6hfkFtoOzD Go ahead and open in a new tab now!
Glad to have you with us, Deidre!
It's official will take place on Saturday, November 12, 2016
Susan Gossett, AP Brookwood Middle School
looking for & s/o to my old buddy
thanks - great learning and sharing with you!
******Q1 coming up*******
Welcome, Susan! Glad you are here to learn with us!
Allyson Apsey, elem p from MI
Glad you are here Allyson!
Welcome to the chat, Allyson!
Dr. Brandon Gilliland--Social Science Teacher, Munford High School
Q1: Describe how your special education teachers collaborate to serve students in the general ed classroom at your school(s).
Jennifer Hogan, Hoover HS AP, Co-founder of this chat and . Welcome everyone!
Love to see the APs getting in and contributing https://t.co/c2UQpQMe7u
Deidre Jefferson Assistant Principal Mobile County
A1: We use a co-teaching model with transition classes for support. We have great co-teachers who work with Ts for S success!
Glad you're here, Allyson!
Elaine Frix, 3rd grade teacher-Haleyville Elementary
Glad you are here Tiffany.
Hey, Mike! Glad you're joining us again!
Faith. Entertainment Technology for Huntsville City Scholls.
Welcome, Deidre! Glad you're here tonight!
Tina from TN, hello tweeps!
A1: I use a mixture of pull-out and collaboration in the classroom. It depends on the Ss needs
A1: Our SPE Ts work closely w our GE Ts in many aspects from planning, to co-teaching, to data, to assisting w accommodations,..
A1: Teachers strive to co-teach subjects in addition to assisting students, providing lessons, and collaborative planning
Ditto. https://t.co/xuWK1b7ckK
A1: I use a mixture of pull-out and collaboration in the classroom. It depends on the Ss needs
A1: We have inclusion classes where our co-teachers serve ALL students in the room.
A1: Co-teaching model as well... Have some strong teacher in that department! TOY in dept, and she is a true leader of learning!
Cheryl Letson Special Education Teacher at Haleyville High
A1-Not enough characters to explain how we handle this. My Ts are very innovative in the way they meet the needs of these Ss.
A1: uumm does that happen?! my experience has been that sped predom works w/ sped & wks w/ gen ed to meet needs of sped in class
This is what we do as well. Try to eliminate the "only help those with IEPs" mentality.
A:1 planning great summer bridge PD to connect spedt's to best practices to prevent summer slide & enrich co-teaching during 2016
A1: Kid talks during team meetings about specific kids and their strengths/needs.
Ditto! Our co-teachers work hard to learn the subject & differentiate the lessons for students.
******Q2 coming up*******
Glad you are here for this topic!
A1: Model specifics for our SPE Ts depend greatly on the needs of individual Ss in each grade level.
A1: Special education teachers push-in to PLCs & classrooms, share data via google sheets to collaborate for benefit of students.
Yes! I love that ALL of the students in the halls by my room feel like they can ask for help if needed. https://t.co/LHAzDlrELu
This is what we do as well. Try to eliminate the "only help those with IEPs" mentality.
Sounds exciting. Can you share more details?
A1- We have found that the traditional models aren’t the most effective for us.
Q2: How do we build strong relationships between general and special education teachers so students are better served?
A1.. As a Sp Ed teacher I love how our Gen Ed teachers us Google classroom. I can follow along with daily lessons.
Our gen ed Ts & SpEd Ts work with ALL students in room, unless doing special pull out or testing. https://t.co/v0zY76hkHV
A1: uumm does that happen?! my experience has been that sped predom works w/ sped & wks w/ gen ed to meet needs of sped in class
I'll have to brag, not be perfect but effort is &they not far from it. ❤️kids & it's visible https://t.co/kGX0R2K5GB
A1: Co-teaching model as well... Have some strong teacher in that department! TOY in dept, and she is a true leader of learning!
A2: With "they are all OUR kids" mentality
A1Constructing accommodations,planning lessons,times of intervention,identifying S lrng goals, & contributing to IEP team support
A1: Our SPED teachers co-teach, provide intervention to students, provide support to teachers, etc. They wear many hats
A1: Gen Ed and SPED teachers need time to talk about kids. Also, SPED staff have great differentiation ideas for Gen Ed teachers.
A2: There is a trust that has to be built between both Ts so that the Ss see that it's a team. It takes time and communication
I would like to hear more.
A2: Relationships and trust are key to collaboration between gen & sped teachers. S goal setting is essential and communication!
A2: Building relationships between GE and SPE can be encouraged through opportunities for planning.
A2: Build a school culture of trust, respect, & cooperation. This serves all students.
A2: Provide time for collaboration and lesson planning between General Ed and Special Ed teachers.
Amen! RT A2: With "they are all OUR kids" mentality
A1:They are in constant communication with our core Ts.They co-teach,insert themselves where needed,ensure that each one is helped
Yes, it definitely does happen I bet some people here will invite you to see. Show her sum love https://t.co/ixELSXOcUe
A1: uumm does that happen?! my experience has been that sped predom works w/ sped & wks w/ gen ed to meet needs of sped in class
Yes, it definitely does happen I bet some people here will invite you to see. Show her sum love https://t.co/ixELSXOcUe
A1: uumm does that happen?! my experience has been that sped predom works w/ sped & wks w/ gen ed to meet needs of sped in class
A2: Admin need to provide the structure for gen ed and sped to talk. Create opportunities for collaboration.
Do you all have specific times when the collaboration occurs?
A2: Design common planning/interdisciplinary with SPE involvement! The whole child represented in lesson planning & structure.
A2:They have to establish a mutual respect and trust for each other in the room.
A2: General/special ed teachers must communicate re: shared goals for students, collective responsibility, to build collaboration.
Tell us more https://t.co/ML6ERe95jp
A1- We have found that the traditional models aren’t the most effective for us.
A2: We are all serving the same Ss with varied learning abilities - treat Ts like their role is important - include them
A1: Our SPE Ts work closely with us to make sure that we aware of accommodations, assist with lessons, etc.
Couldn’t agree more. https://t.co/OStUBSAvRZ
A2: Build a school culture of trust, respect, & cooperation. This serves all students.
A2.. Building good relationship requires solid communication! I often text fellow teachers, staff members to meet students needs.
Remember to bookmark (or open in a new tab now) our livestream that happens after the chat! https://t.co/6hfkFtoOzD
A2: true Ss service in schools,dont separate sped & gen ed & truly have all Ss served to meet needs & Ts wk together
+amsti+ 2 teachers get PD turn around& teach skills next day in sumschl + more PD & more turn around all sumsch.
We usually take advantage of common planning times to make it happen.
A1: SPE Ts run comprehensive progress reports weekly to ensure student achievement; Ss accountability of grades.
A2 Emphasize and construct systems where gen ed and sp ed faculty have time to collaborate, plan, create goals, co-teach
A2-We found that these situations were’t working out the best way for our Ss due to lack of collaborative time between sped/gened
Keeping our common mission-to make a difference-the focus in everything we do.
Yea, ours do pull outs too
A2:Allow them time to plan together, learn each other's strengths, weaknesses, and style.
******Q3 coming up*******
A2: Agreed. Effective educational leaders facilitate collaboration to move the vision forward.
A2: Our SpEd Ts spend 1 day/wk out of the classroom so that they can make time to meet with gen ed Ts during planning per.
from that perspective, our Ts all wk together BUT sped
Ts 1st priority is sped Ss
A:2 respect the teacher and reject isolation within your school culture
Joining a little late this week! 3rd Grade, Oak Mountain Elementary!
A2: We're friendly in hallways--knowing everyone well enough to realize they want what's best for kids makes collaboration easier.
A1: Our SPed Ts push in, pull out, modify and accommodate and collaborate with Gen Ed to meet the needs of our Ss.
I'm curious how everyone is liking our 30-min "power chat" format followed by livestream.... ??
Q3: Describe how effective communication between general ed and special ed teachers looks? Is tech involved?
A2: Speak their love language & they will respond and buy in to the relationship you are trying to build! https://t.co/PsxRv6S03G
Q2: How do we build strong relationships between general and special education teachers so students are better served?
Love it! ! https://t.co/MnlGpQoq2d
I'm curious how everyone is liking our 30-min "power chat" format followed by livestream.... ??
A2: Building solid communication is key! Focus on the main thing-the STUDENT! Don't sweat the small stuff.
A3: Effective communication happens continuously with the "push in" model https://t.co/FADmJXQrCK
Q3: Describe how effective communication between general ed and special ed teachers looks? Is tech involved?
Principals set the tone for the inclusion of SPED Ts. If the principal values their insight and contribution, GenEd Ts will also.
Never too late. Jump in https://t.co/d2x1EjZqkN
Joining a little late this week! 3rd Grade, Oak Mountain Elementary!
Right, Darrin, planning time where our Ts discuss goals 4 Ss, needed support, & approach to lrng needs is invaluable
A2:This question goes great with my chat tonight:"Effective Communication"They need to be included on the specific need of the Ss
A3: Tech is involved for my Ts (but that's because I'm sped and techie). Effective communication is consistent ..It's about the Ss
I’m still trying to figure out the blab thingy. I’m a blab newbie. https://t.co/porGi1QNMZ
I'm curious how everyone is liking our 30-min "power chat" format followed by livestream.... ??
Me too, but you can do it!
A3: Not just communicating, but sharing and understanding! GE & SPE have to be working toward the same goal.
A3:Both teachers share the responsibility in the room. When a person enters they shouldn't no who is who
A2: We keep our focus on the common goal: the students!
A3: Special ed/gen ed teachers collaborate via PLC minutes on google docs, & communicate w/students via google classroom.
A3:They collaborate daily for the greater good of the class.
👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏 https://t.co/DDIDNl6SUa
Principals set the tone for the inclusion of SPED Ts. If the principal values their insight and contribution, GenEd Ts will also.
A3: Great communication can happen through Google Docs, but also the face to face convos in the hallways or impromptu.
A3: there is no one size fits all model or communication cookbook. Ts have to learn to give & take to best suit needs of their Ss
How do you use the Google docs? This is something I would like to see more of.
A3: Design PD where teachers learn from one another.. Add voice & choice! Let them all share their expertise w/ instruction & tech
Go ahead and open the link in a new tab... You sign in via twitter. The link will post again at 9:27.
Exactly https://t.co/t10rrS7irL
A3: there is no one size fits all model or communication cookbook. Ts have to learn to give & take to best suit needs of their Ss
Agree,Deidre,our task is 2 model,through word & deed,that our sped Ts are key members on our team n support of Ss
A3: Conv. & tech. - constant, positive information shared about Ss growth - Our Ts share resource time & resources via Google Docs
create a family culture where all students are everyone's baby's then all teachers in the village will help raise the child.
A3: if a student is unsuccessful the Sp teacher is communicating with the gen Ed teacher to establish plans
Yes!!! It makes a difference Thank you https://t.co/xbu3TFSBnb
Principals set the tone for the inclusion of SPED Ts. If the principal values their insight and contribution, GenEd Ts will also.
A3: Gen ed/sped/eld teachers/admin are added as "teachers" on classdojo & google classroom to enhance communication for students
🙌🙌🙌🙌🙌🙌🙌🙌 https://t.co/89mIHFP1WB
A3:Both teachers share the responsibility in the room. When a person enters they shouldn't no who is who
******Q4 coming up*******
A3: Deep empathy impacts communication. Understanding one another's goals = great start.
A3: Tech is a must for effective communication.
A3: interested in your thoughts on this Qs...our sped recommends tech for sped Ss for diff in class but not sure about comm
https://t.co/9kpLbpcc8n
A3: Special ed/gen ed teachers collaborate via PLC minutes on google docs, & communicate w/students via google classroom.
A3: Google Drive is essential! I know the daily LPs before school starts thanks to Google! https://t.co/2pSng5PBdS
Q3: Describe how effective communication between general ed and special ed teachers looks? Is tech involved?
Q4: What types of PD can help ensure that collaboration and co-teaching are effective and meet student needs?
A3: The collaboration on the Google platform has only increased my ability to work effectively with my co-teachers.
you're on 🔥 tonight of the STUDENTS https://t.co/kVsEhvHhRO
A3:They collaborate daily for the greater good of the class.
the principal heads the village. https://t.co/kFrRaJUfi4
Yes!!! It makes a difference Thank you https://t.co/xbu3TFSBnb
Principals set the tone for the inclusion of SPED Ts. If the principal values their insight and contribution, GenEd Ts will also.
A3: Co-teaching model in inclusion class, communication is key minute by minute. Common planning with all SPED team in grade key.
A3 It's a routine process,not something that occurs on special days.Both discuss,identify,plan, & support each other to assist Ss
A4: The answer is in the question—whatever meets students’ needs.
A4:What an effective coach teach model looks like.
BOOM! It always goes back to leadership. https://t.co/PIoh1Ib4Jh
Principals set the tone for the inclusion of SPED Ts. If the principal values their insight and contribution, GenEd Ts will also.
Template w/DuFour's 4 Qs is on a google doc to be used for each PLC. Docs are in folder shared w/all staff members.
A4: Time...but the best I have found is when Sped gets the same PD that the gen ed is getting
My SPED Ss communicate with me regularly w/ tech. It's also part of the transition standards we must teach.
Yes - it should be an ongoing conversation, not an event.
A4:Attending PD together w focus on personalized learning creates team mentality & focus on ind. Ss needs https://t.co/D9dqMwtn17
Q4: What types of PD can help ensure that collaboration and co-teaching are effective and meet student needs?
A4:So many gen Ed teachers don't want to release reigns in room and Sp teacher begins to relax in room
and I were just saying the same thing!
A4: Intentionally design PD that shares best practices! Showcase collaborative innovations initiated by Ts
A4: PD should be differentiated to meet Ts' needs just as instruction is for Ss.
A4: Same PD(don't separate) for sped T and gen T where they are getting same information that's good for all students!
Exactly! https://t.co/N6mzRNWLZ4
A4: Time...but the best I have found is when Sped gets the same PD that the gen ed is getting
Dang! I already did it wrong! https://t.co/4NdgVGdU54
Go ahead and open the link in a new tab... You sign in via twitter. The link will post again at 9:27.
A4 PD that helps us establish the purpose for collaboration, why we should do it, what is involved, & how we can SUSTAIN it
A4: If your PD is student-centered and promotes a PLC model - it will often produce a collaborative culture
A4:BEFORE kids come in August, meet w/Ts & review ALL IEPs to ensure understanding of accommodations. https://t.co/JsTpLHL7ln
Q4: What types of PD can help ensure that collaboration and co-teaching are effective and meet student needs?
A4:The Sp teacher should be able to take control of the class in the absence of the teacher
thanks for letting me join in tonight!
Lead with the why https://t.co/uJki5xjtGe
A4 PD that helps us establish the purpose for collaboration, why we should do it, what is involved, & how we can SUSTAIN it
A4: PD that infuses a joint effort & focus on modeling collaborative team teaching to work together would be a start
******FQ coming up*******
A4: Strong believer in teacher-designed & led PD. Ask them. Almost always schools have leaders to provide what's needed.
A4: Some PD on communication and collaboration is helpful, too. Some Ts not used to sharing the class/space.
advisor advisee connects kids w/ teachers and breeds collaboration. Teachers naturally take ownership of the students they advise
A3: Tech is grear, but communication can get misconstrued if you don't know the tone. Old school face to face and hands on is key
We plan together using google docs.. embed my differentiation and co-teaching pieces into one doc. Sped, speech, gen, and therapy
A4. PD to help with understanding of Sp Ed changes. Gen Ed can't be expected to understand all changes of Sp Ed w/out help.
FQ: Give an example of a general or special education teacher who is inspiring due to their collaborative nature.
A4:A PD that informs the gen Ed teacher that SPED students have a disability
I agree - seems to speak volumes to what can happen with your Ss https://t.co/GLTenA093f
A4: Strong believer in teacher-designed & led PD. Ask them. Almost always schools have leaders to provide what's needed.
Not only sustain it, but maintain it.
not in classroom&might not have a good view,think ours varies by Ts&sch, but I think sped is still largely sep fr GE
A4:A PD where Sp teacher understands that they are their students advocate in the room.
. & do a great job! Our entire team is awesome!
A4: PD that allows GenEd & SpEd to work together and learn collaboratively is a great opportunity to learn with & from one another.
Common ground. No confusion. We all see either black or white. There's no gray. https://t.co/ZQOBjUMCoD
A4: Time...but the best I have found is when Sped gets the same PD that the gen ed is getting
The "post-chat" LIVE show will start at 9:30 when the twitter chat ends. Be sure to use this link! https://t.co/6hfkFtoOzD
I want every T in the building to be an advocate!
At HHS, we have a SpEd T who goes above & beyond what is ASKED of her. She takes ldrship roles!
AQ: SPE/General collaboration on ACT prep strategies! Working wonders...
LQ:When the gen Ed teacher is absent and the Sp teacher can run the class with competence and fidelity
FA: All of my gen ed Ts ;-)
Collaboration between sped/gened doesn’t always have to be in the co-teaching model. Other models work very well.
I suggest more PD for GenEd Ts showing how to meet the needs of not only their GenEd Ss but SPED Ss as well
FA We don't like to shine light and name names but we will never grow if we don't know. We need to celebrate our Tt champions
FQ:HES has passionate, dedicated, & hardworking SpeEd Ts that not only focus on academic needs,but social and emotional well being
FQ: Parapros bridge the gap for us when we are unavailable. They know us as well as we know ourselves. https://t.co/1rJlRU1T5U
FQ: Give an example of a general or special education teacher who is inspiring due to their collaborative nature.
FA: When your T identifies the classroom as ours - when your T uses planning to visit resource - when your T leads conc. w/ we
What’s good for SpEd kids is good for all kids. Or we shouldn’t be doing it.
Join us on Blab for a 10 minute debrief of our chat!
FQ.Gen Ed teacher
is willing change to meet needs of Sp Ed Ss, may be in class,class aide or work on job skills. I am lucky
all kids- personalized learning,its herrrrrrrrrrrre! Special Ed teachers get it right.
thx , always learn from ya'll!
Finished my last chat for tonight. I have to say, it was a good night . Always building my PLN
