Special Education Inner Circle
The Special Education Inner Circle podcast is hosted by Catherine Whitcher, M.Ed, founder of the Master IEP Coach® Mentorship + Network. Get your notebook ready as Catherine brings you real-world strategies for everyone at the IEP table. With her family's experience in the disability community and her journey from Special Education classroom teacher to IEP expert, Catherine knows what it takes to prepare students and families for the future. Get ready to be inspired and learn actionable steps you can take immediately to change your special education experience.
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235. Your Secret Sauce to a Better School Year Next Year
05/02/2024
235. Your Secret Sauce to a Better School Year Next Year
Special Education Teachers and Parents, Was this school year easier than expected, or more difficult than you imagined? In this must-listen episode, I share eye-opening poll results, guide you through identifying your true desires for a better next school year, and 3 must-have steps to get there! Plus, discover the opportunity to become a Master IEP Coach® through my summer mentorship! Send me a DM on Instagram: Learn More About Master IEP Coach®: Get 12 IEP Questions You Need to Ask Before Your Next IEP Meeting:
/episode/index/show/catherine/id/31089403
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234. Curriculum in the IEP? Yes!
04/25/2024
234. Curriculum in the IEP? Yes!
Chaos erupted on my Instagram when I asked if teachers and parents list curriculum in IEPs. 75% said no, fearing issues if a student moves districts or the curriculum stops working. But I'm here to set the record straight! Listing curriculum (in areas like present levels, not goals) provides crucial context on what worked before. It doesn't lock you in - we can make adjustments as needed. And if you're unfamiliar with the listed curriculum? The IEP can include training support! In this episode, I dish on the heated DM exchanges, tackle common objections, and remind us all that transparency and collaboration are key. After all, we're on the same team working hard for to build ah-mazing IEPs. Learn more about becoming a Master IEP Coach®: Let's connect on Instagram:
/episode/index/show/catherine/id/30988463
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233. Parents Never Have "No Concerns"
04/17/2024
233. Parents Never Have "No Concerns"
Let's be honest - that parent input section inside the IEP is often left blank, filled with a weak "no concerns" statement, or a dumping ground for complaints. Not on my watch! Let's flip that section into the heart and soul of the entire IEP. Parents, get ready to level up your input inside your child's IEP. Teachers, learn how to ditch the guesswork of what goals to choose for a child and tap into a goldmine of invaluable family insights. Send me a DM on Instagram: Learn More About Master IEP Coach®: Get 12 IEP Questions You Need to Ask Before Your Next IEP Meeting:
/episode/index/show/catherine/id/30799498
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232. Decision Making for Middle School
04/11/2024
232. Decision Making for Middle School
Transitioning from elementary to middle school is a big IEP deal, friends. There are so many decisions to navigate that it can leave parents feeling totally overwhelmed. But in this episode, I'm pulling back the curtain and sharing insights from a mom I'm coaching through this process. You'll hear how she's ensuring she can observe the proposed middle school placement, how she's getting crucial supports and services documented, and how she's customizing that Special Education Extended School Year program. Whether you're a parent or an educator, this episode is packed with real-talk tips to create a smooth middle school transition - because let's be real, lockers, switching classes, and changing into gym uniforms add a whole new layer of complexity! Send me a DM on Instagram: Learn More About Master IEP Coach®: Get 12 IEP Questions You Need to Ask Before Your Next IEP Meeting:
/episode/index/show/catherine/id/30785088
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231. Non-Negotiables for IEPs: Even on the Bad Days
04/07/2024
231. Non-Negotiables for IEPs: Even on the Bad Days
It is to have certain non-negotiables in place for every child's IEP. Because let's face it - not every school day is sunshine and rainbows. There will be those chaotic, hectic, downright bad days where nothing seems to go right. Listen in and then start the conversation with your IEP team to find the non-negotiables ASAP! Because when the wheels come off, at least you'll know every child will be able to access their day. Learn More: Join the Master IEP Coach® Mentorship:
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230. Don't Give Up On This School Year Yet! 4 Questions for Special Education Teachers and Parents
03/29/2024
230. Don't Give Up On This School Year Yet! 4 Questions for Special Education Teachers and Parents
Are you feeling straight-up depleted from your IEP and special education struggles? Waking up in a full-body cringe over the challenges you're facing? It doesn't have to be this way! The school year isn't over and you can still turn things around in a major way. On this episode, I'll walk you through getting super honest with the three biggest obstacles that are blocking your joy and progress. This is the insight and fire you need to create the changes you need before the last day of school!
/episode/index/show/catherine/id/30598523
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229: Second Guessing Special Needs and Inclusion
03/21/2024
229: Second Guessing Special Needs and Inclusion
Sometimes I get scared to call myself a "special needs sibling" or talk about what "inclusion" looked like for my brother who thrived in a private therapeutic day school. If you've ever filtered yourself and the words you say because you're worried about what the "loud" people might say to you... this episode is for you. Get more IEP resources at:
/episode/index/show/catherine/id/30484398
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228: Sneak Peek: Green Flags in Special Education
03/14/2024
228: Sneak Peek: Green Flags in Special Education
🟢 I just finished recording an IEP workshop for a National Autism Organisation. Here's your sneak peek of 3 Green Flags I'm helping parents find inside their child's classroom. Teachers, if you've got these 3 things... celebrate! Parents, if you see these 3 things... breathe a sigh of relief! If you don't have these 3 things, it's time for us to work together. Learn More:
/episode/index/show/catherine/id/30375783
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227. 3 Essentials for Your Next IEP Meeting
03/07/2024
227. 3 Essentials for Your Next IEP Meeting
Please stop saying "Let's put that in the parking lot" during IEP meetings! Instead bring these 3 essential strategies to your next IEP meeting and help everyone know their expertise and perspectives are a priority. Learn More and Get Your 12 IEP Questions at:
/episode/index/show/catherine/id/30273073
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226. Celebrating your Wins is Necessary
02/28/2024
226. Celebrating your Wins is Necessary
When is the last time you paused, reflected, and SHARED your wins? Not just the big wins, but the little wins that are so important to you and all the things you are doing. Take a few minutes to listen to this episode and then . 🎉I want to celebrate with you!
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225. IEP Systems for Parents and Teachers
02/22/2024
225. IEP Systems for Parents and Teachers
What's better than a checklist when it comes to remembering all the things you need to do inside the Special Education system? Your own system! Special Education Teachers and Parents, You can swipe my system for your biggest Special Education struggles when you join us inside the next Master IEP Coach® Mentorship. Find the next Mentorship date and more resources at: https://www.masteriepcoach.com/
/episode/index/show/catherine/id/30067913
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224. Visual Supports in the IEP with Molly Johnson
02/14/2024
224. Visual Supports in the IEP with Molly Johnson
🛑 Ever seen the phrase: "Visual Supports" inside of your child's or student's IEP? 🖇Learn why you need to change that phrase and how to use visual supports that grow with a child to build independence. ✨Connect with Molly Johnson 🔥Learn about the Master IEP Coach® Mentorship:
/episode/index/show/catherine/id/29956988
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223. Two Important Questions I Get About Master IEP Coaches®
02/07/2024
223. Two Important Questions I Get About Master IEP Coaches®
Could you be a Master IEP Coach® and do you have to fight at the IEP table? I'll share with you 7 VERY different reasons why parents, teachers, admins, and therapists chose to become Master IEP Coaches® and change the outcomes in Special Education. Get my favorite 12 IEP questions and learn more about becoming a Master IEP Coach® at:
/episode/index/show/catherine/id/29846698
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222. 12 IEP Questions for Teachers and Parents
01/30/2024
222. 12 IEP Questions for Teachers and Parents
I've been using this list of 12 IEP questions for over a decade and I want you to have it! Use these questions before, during, and after your IEP meeting to work together and change Special Education.
/episode/index/show/catherine/id/29720823
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221. 3 Takeaways from the Master IEP Coach Mentorship
01/23/2024
221. 3 Takeaways from the Master IEP Coach Mentorship
Hey there 👋 I just wrapped up a training for Master IEP Coaches and wanted to share some major aha moments from the session - straight from the perspective of NEW Master IEP Coaches®! 💡 The first big takeaway was getting general education teachers more involved in the IEP process. 👩🏫 Often there's a divide between gen ed and special ed in schools. It doesn't have to be that way! Inside the Master IEP Coach® Mentorship we cover specific strategies to break down those walls and get all teachers invested in all kids' success. The second aha was about preventing IEP burnout and boundaries. 😴 Sometimes IEPs get overloaded with a gazillion goals and strategies leaving no room for organic learning or relationships. Learning how to prioritize goals, let some go, and structure the day so teachers and students aren't just box-checking but actually making progress on the most important goals is critical. 🎯 This creates a domino effect to hit milestones without burnout. The third big takeaway was you can include a home-school communication plan right in the IEP. 🏡👩🏫 No more back and forth about how much contact parents and teachers should have! We cover how to decide the minimum communication needed and get it documented so there's no confusion year to year. We can meet kids' needs and respect teachers' boundaries - it's possible! ✅ I hope these highlights get you excited to join our next Master IEP Coach cohort! Just click the link to learn more. Let's get ALL members of the IEP team working together to give all kids the education they need to be prepared for the future! 🙌
/episode/index/show/catherine/id/29618768
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220. 5 Questions to Ask When an IEP Isn't Working
01/18/2024
220. 5 Questions to Ask When an IEP Isn't Working
Before you jump into "fix it" mode when you see things going wrong with an IEP, ask yourself these 5 questions! Special Education Teachers and Parents, When you slow down and ask these 5 questions you can get out of the cycle of IEP struggles and band-aid fixes. Learn More IEP Strategies at: https://www.masteriepcoach.com/
/episode/index/show/catherine/id/29543438
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219. Learn how to get MORE and BETTER Special Education Services
01/12/2024
219. Learn how to get MORE and BETTER Special Education Services
Tired of fighting through the IEP process and feeling like you get peanuts for your child or your students? Let me show you 3 steps to help you get MORE without activating your "fight or flight" response every time you step into an IEP meeting. Learn More:
/episode/index/show/catherine/id/29465133
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218. IEP Meetings - What's In and Out in 2024
01/03/2024
218. IEP Meetings - What's In and Out in 2024
👋 Let’s chat about what’s IN and OUT for IEP Meetings in 2024.✨ * Parent Input Statements: In: 😍 Beautifully crafted statements showing a parent’s vision AND incorporating their priorities throughout the IEP Out: 🚫 Generic "no concerns at this time" * IEP drafts and reports: In: 📝 Sharing documents ahead of time, with open communication for questions and collaboration Out: 🙅♀️ Surprises and reading reports word-for-word at the meeting * ESY (Extended School Year): In: 🎯 Customized programming based on individual needs Out: 🍪 Cookie cutter summer school approach focused only on regression 🙌 Special Education Teachers and Parents - Ready to become the idea bringer, solution finder, and team builder at the IEP table? Join me for the next Master IEP Coach® Mentorship - starting soon! Learn More:
/episode/index/show/catherine/id/29324583
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217. Stop Doing THIS in Special Education in the New Year
12/27/2023
217. Stop Doing THIS in Special Education in the New Year
This year, give yourself permission to stop what's not working at the IEP table and simplify the process to get better results. 1. First, stop signing paperwork you don't fully understand. Never assume. Ask questions until you're 100% clear. Teachers, know what you're responsible for if your name is on it. 2. Next, stop thinking more volume means more value. Quality over quantity! Core, focused goals create a domino effect of progress. 3. Finally, stop comparing your child's IEP or your classroom to others. You know what's best - don't let other opinions make you feel shame. Do what's right for your family or classroom. Want to take your IEP skills up a notch in the new year? Check out the Master IEP Coach® Mentorship. In just 30 days, you'll become an expert at getting more IEP results with less conflict. Learn More:
/episode/index/show/catherine/id/29243738
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216. 3 Unfiltered Truths about Special Education in 2023
12/20/2023
216. 3 Unfiltered Truths about Special Education in 2023
What are we going to do about staff shortages, technology, and ugly threats at the IEP table? Tune in to find out what solutions you can use starting immediately at your own IEP table!
/episode/index/show/catherine/id/29167663
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215. Special Education Resources I Love!
12/13/2023
215. Special Education Resources I Love!
You've got a lot of resources to choose from when it comes to getting results in Special Education - I'm sharing the resources I LOVE! Delight Station: An app providing streaming educational content for adults and students with disabilities. Coupon Codes: INNERCIRCLE - good for 25% off for 3 months if a user selects a monthly subscription INNERCIRCLEYEAR - good for 25% off a yearly subscription Slant System: Reading curriculum. Save $100 with code: GIFT2YOU Frenalytics: An app for skill mastery. ForBrain: A tool for auditory processing and speech development. 10% discount with link Tracked Learning: A web-based app for teachers to help students work on and track IEP goals. Calm Strips: Textured strips for sensory support. Seven Super Powers (Dr. Maria Gilmore): A positive behavior support book for parents and teachers. Grab the book on Amazon: Hoglet: A computer mouse designed for sensory input. Buy on Amazon: Time Timer: Provides visual timers for time management. Buy on Amazon: Find more resources and join the next Master IEP Coach® Mentorship at:
/episode/index/show/catherine/id/29062893
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214. Inclusion in Hollywood: Meet Diane Strand
12/08/2023
214. Inclusion in Hollywood: Meet Diane Strand
I had the absolute joy of sitting down with the remarkable Diane Strand. Diane's journey is nothing short of WOW – from facing dyslexia head-on to creating magic behind the scenes of iconic shows like "Friends" and "General Hospital". She's even worked behind the scenes for legends like Barbra Streisand! But here's the heart of Diane's story: she's passionately dedicated to empowering adults with disabilities through her work at JDS Creative Academy, using the power of the arts. Diane's story is a vibrant reminder of how embracing our passions can truly change our lives and the lives of others. So, grab your favorite cozy spot and tune in for a conversation filled with heartfelt stories, laughter, and the kind of inspiration that sticks with you long after you've listened. Can't wait for you to join us! 🌟💕 Find Out More About Diane and her mission to support individuals of all abilities through the art of media through JDS Creative Academy. Grab free IEP resources and find out how to become a Master IEP Coach®:
/episode/index/show/catherine/id/28993678
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213. 3 Ways to Get General Education Involved in IEPs
12/01/2023
213. 3 Ways to Get General Education Involved in IEPs
Often, general education teachers feel unprepared and disconnected from the IEP process, especially at meetings. Let's explore three strategies to involve general education teachers more effectively in the IEP process without overwhelming them. Strategy 1: Ensure that the IEP's "supports for school personnel" section is checked and filled out inside the IEP paperwork. This box is frequently overlooked in IEPs or not used to its maximum potential. Strategy 2: Engage general education teachers in simple data collection. This doesn't require intensive one-on-one time but can be as straightforward as tracking skills using discreet methods. This involvement helps teachers feel a sense of ownership over the outcomes. Strategy 3: Include general education teachers in goal-setting for the IEP. Their perspective can provide valuable insights into the skills necessary for the student's current and future school environments, which leads to fostering more engagement and ownership. Your Next Steps:
/episode/index/show/catherine/id/28890733
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212. IEP Deadlines Missed - Fix It Fast!
11/22/2023
212. IEP Deadlines Missed - Fix It Fast!
It's time for a cozy conversation Special Education and what to do when deadlines are missed! Here’s what we’re unpacking today: A Real-Life Story: Sit down with me as I share an insightful experience from a one-on-one consult with an amazing mom from our Master IEP Coach® community. Discovering the Overlooked: Ever wonder how small details can make a big difference? We’ll explore how communication gaps in schools can lead to missed cues in student behavior and development. Join Our Journey: Feeling inspired to make a difference? Learn about becoming a Master IEP Coach and how you can contribute to more effective special education outcomes. Resources:
/episode/index/show/catherine/id/28761143
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211. Spicy IEP Conversations on Facebook
11/15/2023
211. Spicy IEP Conversations on Facebook
Grab your coffee, and join me in a candid chat about what's brewing in the special education world. In this episode, we chat about two hot topics: 1. It's not just about more money for Special Education, but how we use it. Ever thought about looking into your district's budget? Let's talk about making every dollar count. 2. Special Education or No Special Education? It's a heated debate, but at its core, it's about what’s best for each unique child. I share how my mom's perspective on this topic way back in the 80's helped shape my thoughts about Special Education placements today. Visit Master IEP Coach: Join the Facebook Conversation Here Earn Your IEP Leadership Certificate Program Start Your Own IEP Coaching Practice
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210: IEP Goals for Travel
11/09/2023
210: IEP Goals for Travel
Have you ever been told IEPs are just for academics? Not true! This episode shares how we can use IEPs as a travel hack to help families hit the road with confidence! IEPs can help children build skills for family road trips, plane travel, and anything in between. Waiting in lines, time management, flexibility when plans change - these are so key for vacation success. As parents and teachers, we need to get out of the Special Education IEP goal slump and start connecting skills to EXCITING real-life challenges, like travel! Ask Your IEP Questions Earn Your IEP Leadership Certificate Program Start Your Own IEP Coaching Practice
/episode/index/show/catherine/id/28571148
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209. Secret Data Collection is Not Okay
11/01/2023
209. Secret Data Collection is Not Okay
When a parent discovered secret behavior data about her child, mistrust between school and family deepened. Open communication is critical in special education. Kids thrive when parents and schools collaborate, not compete. We must choose understanding over mistrust and partnership over secrecy. Listen and learn the next step this parent needs to take to get her child's education back on track through collaborative actions. Ask Your IEP Questions https://www.masteriepcoach.com/questions Earn Your IEP Leadership Certificate Program https://www.masteriepcoach.com/course Start Your Own IEP Coaching Practice https://www.masteriepcoach.com/mentorship
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208. IEP Q&A from Catherine's Inbox
10/25/2023
208. IEP Q&A from Catherine's Inbox
Let's jump into my inbox and discuss two key questions that came my way this week! First, we tackle what to do as a Special Education teacher when you inherit IEPs that are not up to standards. IEPs that are stuffed with unimportant goals or goals written inappropriately are not okay! Next, If you're a single mom or a struggling teacher and you're thinking about becoming a Master IEP Coach®, but your doubt keeps creeping up - the last 6 minutes of this episode is for you! Ask your IEP questions here: Earn Your Master IEP Coach® Certificate Start Your Own IEP Coaching Practice
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207. Inclusion Not Working? Discover a Schoolwide Solution
10/18/2023
207. Inclusion Not Working? Discover a Schoolwide Solution
I found a book for you to add to your Special Education resources! Inclusion game-changer "Leadership Strategies for Schoolwide Inclusion" shows you the details for making inclusion work using the STAR method. From admin leadership to Special Education and General Education collaboration, it covers everything you need to win at inclusion. In this episode, I share my top takeaways for assessing your school’s inclusion practices and overcoming challenges. If you're a parent or teacher seeking tips to create an inclusive IEP experience, this episode is for you! Links Mentioned In This Episode: 📖 Leadership Strategies for Successful Schoolwide Inclusion Earn Your IEP Leadership Certificate Program Start Your Own IEP Coaching Practice
/episode/index/show/catherine/id/28359923
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206. No Consistency Due to Staff Shortages in Special Education
10/13/2023
206. No Consistency Due to Staff Shortages in Special Education
Schools are facing massive paraprofessional shortages, leaving Special Education support inconsistent. In this episode, I share two simple tips to help a child learn comfortably even with daily staff changes. With these strategies, a child can stay confident and access their school day despite staffing struggles. FREE Time Saving IEP Prep Guide for Parents and Teachers Earn Your IEP Leadership Certificate Program Start Your Own IEP Coaching Practice
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