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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257. An Aide Isn't Always the Answer
10/06/2024
257. An Aide Isn't Always the Answer
If you've been struggling with the "do we need a 1:1 aide" conversation with your IEP team... this quick episode with strategies and perspective is for you!
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256. Your 90 Day Plan for Special Education Peace Next Year
09/28/2024
256. Your 90 Day Plan for Special Education Peace Next Year
As 2024 enters its final quarter, it's time to take stock and plan for a peaceful finish! In this episode, you'll be challenged to reflect on your IEP practices and personal goals. Learn why these last 90 days are crucial for setting yourself up for success in 2025. Whether you're a parent, educator, or administrator, discover how to evaluate your current IEP process, make timely adjustments, and avoid year-end stress. Plus, get tips on personal reflection and goal-setting that will help you enter the new year with purpose. Tune in now and learn how to close out 2024 with peace, clarity, and a solid plan for the future!
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255. Turning Your IEP Expertise into an Advocacy Business
09/22/2024
255. Turning Your IEP Expertise into an Advocacy Business
In this episode, I'm sharing the real deal on how I help parents and teachers inside the Master IEP Coach® Mentorship set up their businesses. We'll cover: How I run my business mostly from my phone (which was a lifesaver when my stepson broke his arm recently) A simple way to host webinars that connect you with potential clients My approach to streamlining communication that keeps things professional and efficient I remember feeling stuck in the IEP world, wanting to make a bigger difference but not sure how. Now, I get to help others build businesses that let them impact families' lives while having the flexibility they need. If you've been thinking about using your IEP knowledge in a new way, or you're curious about what it takes to start your own coaching business, give this episode a listen. I'll walk you through how we keep things simple and effective. Got questions? Let's chat about making your IEP skills work for you in a whole new way.
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254. Two Master IEP Coach® Strategies You Can Keep
09/14/2024
254. Two Master IEP Coach® Strategies You Can Keep
Ever wondered what kind of IEP solutions other people are finding? In this episode, we're dishing out some clever strategies straight from our Master IEP Coaches®. Hear how one simple idea got a struggling student the therapy they needed, and find out why Assistive Technology isn't just about iPads. These are the kind of practical tips that make a real difference in designing successful school days!
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253. Rewrite Your Special Education Story
09/08/2024
253. Rewrite Your Special Education Story
Ever felt like you're supposed to do something more to help create change in Special Education? You're not alone. I'm taking you behind the scenes of the Master IEP Coach® Mentorship that's turning the tables on traditional special education advocacy. Discover how everyday parents and educators are becoming powerful change-makers, transforming stress-filled IEP meetings into collaborative problem-solving sessions. From classroom frustrations to empowering solutions, we'll explore the journey of those rewriting the special education narrative. Whether you're a parent, teacher, or therapist, this episode might just be the game-changer you've been waiting for. Ready to rewrite your special education story?
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252. From Mom to Master IEP Coach® - Meet Sandy
08/31/2024
252. From Mom to Master IEP Coach® - Meet Sandy
Discover the journey of Sandy, a mom who transformed her frustration with the special education system into a mission to help others. From struggling to secure an IEP for her autistic son to becoming a respected Special Education Advocate and Master IEP Coach®, Sandy's story is a testament to the power of perseverance and personal experience. Learn her strategies for turning "no" into "yes" at the IEP table, the importance of clear communication with school teams, and why laying a strong foundation early is crucial for a child's future. With insights gained from both sides of the table - as a parent and an advocate - Sandy offers hope and practical advice for navigating the complex world of special education. Whether you're a parent, educator, or advocate, cozy up to the quick episode that will have you brainstorming ideas on how you can change Special Education, too!
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251. Is this Special Education Curriculum Okay?
08/24/2024
251. Is this Special Education Curriculum Okay?
I've been presenting IEP Workshops at PTAs nationwide and these two concerns from parents and teachers keep creeping up... The "What Curriculum?" Conundrum: Because winging it just doesn't cut it anymore. The Inclusion Illusion: Spoiler alert - it's not just about sharing a classroom! In this episode I serve up: Leadership hacks that'll make your head spin (in a good way!) Mind-shifting strategies to turn those "ugh" moments into "aha!" breakthroughs Practical tips to rally your IEP team Ready to transform from stressed-out educators and parents to confident leader? Let's make some special education magic happen! Join me in the next Master IEP Coach® Mentorship Grab your free 12 Questions Workbook Read the Master IEP Coach® Blog Contact Catherine with Questions
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250. Special Education Inclusion Begins Day One
08/17/2024
250. Special Education Inclusion Begins Day One
Inclusion of children who receive Special Education services is not a luxury we can afford to delay. Let's challenge the common practice of postponing inclusion until "routines are established." Discover why inclusion should start on day one and how waiting can be a huge set back for children with IEPs. Whether you're a parent, teacher, or administrator, you'll gain valuable insights on creating truly inclusive school communities from the get-go. Learn practical steps to initiate crucial conversations and drive change in your school. It's time to rethink inclusion – because every child deserves to belong from day one.
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249. Two Easy School to Home Communication Solutions
08/10/2024
249. Two Easy School to Home Communication Solutions
Are you tired of the communication breakdown between school and home in Special Education? In this episode, I'm sharing two game-changing strategies that will transform how you handle IEP updates. Discover why sending weekly reports on Fridays might be sabotaging your weekend, and learn a simple shift that could make all the difference. Plus, I share an innovative approach to daily updates that not only saves teachers time, but also empowers students. Whether you're a parent or educator, these practical tips will help you navigate the IEP process with less stress and more success. Ready to change up your school-to-home communication? Let's go!
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248. The IEP Box You Might Be Missing: Assistive Technology Made Simple
08/01/2024
248. The IEP Box You Might Be Missing: Assistive Technology Made Simple
Feeling overwhelmed by back-to-school prep? I've got a box you need to check that could make a huge difference this year. It's all about that assistive technology box the IEP - you know, the one that's often ignored? Let's chat about what it really means and how it can help a child with communication, independence, and safety.
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247. Time Management Made Visual: How Time Timer® Supports Special Education
07/24/2024
247. Time Management Made Visual: How Time Timer® Supports Special Education
Did you know that the Time Timer® we all know and love started with a paper plate? In this episode, I chat with Heather from Time Timer®, a visual timer that's been helping students manage time for 30 years. We chat about the big WHY, explore their product line (from classic timers to smartwatches!), and discuss creative ways to use these tools both in and out of the classroom. You'll learn how Time Timer® can be included in IEPs as assistive technology, and why we should rethink traditional time-telling goals. Whether you're a teacher looking to improve classroom management, a parent establishing routines at home, or an adult trying to beat procrastination, this episode has something for you.
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246. Building Inclusive School Experiences Through Special Olympics Unified Champion Schools
07/17/2024
246. Building Inclusive School Experiences Through Special Olympics Unified Champion Schools
Listen in for an eye-opening journey into the world of Special Olympics' Unified Champion Schools! In this episode, we're pulling back the curtain on a revolutionary approach to inclusion that's sweeping through schools nationwide. You'll hear from Haylie, about Special Olympics' global education initiatives, and Hannah, a Special Olympic athlete whose story will challenge you to dream bigger. What does an "inclusion revolution" actually look like in practice? How is a sports organization changing the game in education? And why is playing together more powerful than you might think? From unexpected friendships to globe-trotting adventures, this conversation is packed with surprises. Whether you're a parent, educator, or someone who cares about building a more inclusive world, this episode will leave you inspired and equipped to make a difference. Ready to challenge your assumptions and see inclusion in a whole new light? Press play and join the inclusion revolution! 📘 🧠 📧
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245. Simple Special Education Support Spotlight: How Calm Strips Can Help Increase Focus and Reduce Anxiety
07/13/2024
245. Simple Special Education Support Spotlight: How Calm Strips Can Help Increase Focus and Reduce Anxiety
Hey there, parents and teachers! Join me for a chat with the creative minds behind Calm Strips. We're exploring how these nifty textured stickers are making a real difference in classrooms and beyond, helping kids (and adults!) with focus and anxiety. Learn about their simple design, many uses, and why students and teachers are loving them. We'll also tackle those back-to-school butterflies with some down-to-earth advice from parents who've walked this path. Whether you're teaching or parenting, this episode is full of helpful tips and easy ideas. Tune in for a fun, informative conversation that'll leave you feeling ready and excited for the school year ahead!
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244. Determined Teacher Finds a Clickworthy Solution
07/05/2024
244. Determined Teacher Finds a Clickworthy Solution
🖱️ In this episode, Catherine interviews Parker, the inventor of the Hoglet - the world's first fidget computer mouse. Discover how a former tech professional turned special education teacher invented a much needed assistive technology! 🚀 Key highlights: Parker's journey from tech to teaching 📚 The classroom experience that sparked the Hoglet idea 💡 The thoughtful design process behind this innovative tool 🎨 Benefits for sensory-seeking students and those with ADHD 🤗 How to incorporate the Hoglet into IEPs as assistive technology 📝 Catherine shares valuable IEP tips and emphasizes the importance of documenting helpful tools. This conversation is a must-listen for parents and educators looking for creative solutions in special education! 🌟 Prepare to be inspired by how one educator's determination is making waves in the world of accessible learning. 🌊 Send Catherine a DM on Instagram: Learn More About Master IEP Coach®: Get 12 IEP Questions You Need to Ask Before Your Next IEP Meeting:
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243. Smooth IEP Meeting? Send This Letter
06/28/2024
243. Smooth IEP Meeting? Send This Letter
Hear me out on why sending a recap letter after an IEP meeting is crucial, even when everything goes smoothly. Learn how this simple strategy can prevent misunderstandings, document important agreements, and keep the collaborative spirit alive. I'll walk you through the key elements of an effective recap letter and explain why it's more than just an email. Whether you're a parent or an educator, this episode offers valuable insights to enhance your IEP process and ensure the best outcomes for students. Send me a DM on Instagram: Learn More About Master IEP Coach®:
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242. Say This, Not That: 5 Shifts for IEP Conversations
06/23/2024
242. Say This, Not That: 5 Shifts for IEP Conversations
Ever feel frustrated with the words being used at IEP meetings? You're not alone! In this episode, Catherine shares 5 critical language shifts that'll transform your IEP conversations. Whether you're a parent trying to express your child's needs or an educator aiming to build better plans, these strategies are key to simplifying the process. We're talking fewer words, with more impact. Specific statements, not vague generalizations. Gentle approaches vs harsh demands. And trust me, by the end of this episode, you'll be ready to infuse hope into every IEP discussion. With nearly 30 years in the special education trenches, I've seen these shifts work magic through some of the toughest IEP situations. So grab your favorite beverage, hit play, and let's upgrade your IEP experience together. It's time to get everyone on the same page and create plans that actually work. Ready to become an IEP conversation pro? Let's do this! Links to Learn More -
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241. Losing Yourself at the IEP Table
06/13/2024
241. Losing Yourself at the IEP Table
Ever walk into an IEP meeting and struggle to show up as your best self? You know the conversation is going to be tough and you are just crossing your fingers hoping you can say and do the right things. In this episode, I'll give you practical tips on finding support, preparing effectively, and managing your emotions during meetings. Learn how to show up as your best self with integrity and confidence... even through the hardest conversations. For more IEP resources and the Master IEP Coach® Mentorship, visit .
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240. Courageously Hit Refresh and Have Less Stress at the IEP Table
06/09/2024
240. Courageously Hit Refresh and Have Less Stress at the IEP Table
It's time to break free of unnecessary stress at the IEP table and courageously hit refresh. Finally, give yourself permission to let go of methods or programs that just aren't working - even if you poured tons of effort into them initially. Whether it's a teaching approach, therapy plan, or accommodation, if it's causing more headaches than progress, let it go! Hitting refresh also means a shift that flips the script on how you approach IEPs. Instead of just checking legal boxes, listen in to get perspective on how to start with your child's or student's unique needs and let the law support that vision. It's a total game-changer! Tune in and you'll walk away seeing the IEP process through a fresh lens, packed with strategies to maximize a child's growth while prioritizing your own well being.
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239. Create Your Double Win This Summer
05/30/2024
239. Create Your Double Win This Summer
Are you constantly striving and achieving at the IEP table, only to crash from burnout shortly after? I've been there, and in this episode I'm sharing how the concept of "high performance" changed everything for me. You'll learn the 6 key habits around clarity, energy, productivity and more that allowed me to raise my baseline to a consistent state of joy and engagement - even amid major life struggles like divorce, health crises, and financial troubles. I'll walk you through how to implement these habits in a way that fits your unique schedule, so you can finally feel that confidence and alignment you crave, not just at the IEP table but across all areas of your life. It's time to stop the cycle of short-term achievement followed by burnout. Join me for an open conversation about creating your "double win" this summer through my 12-week mentorship! Join the Summer Mentorship: Got questions? Send me a DM on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/catherinewhitcher/
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238. Feeling Burnt Out? You need sustainable IEPs
05/23/2024
238. Feeling Burnt Out? You need sustainable IEPs
Burnout, exhaustion, and that "never again" feeling after an unsustainable IEP year? Let's get real about the tendency to overload IEPs with too many goals, accommodations, and responsibilities - leaving teachers, therapists, parents, and children overwhelmed. Prioritization is crucial for sustainable IEPs that drive real progress. Stripping back IEPs to the highest-impact, "needle-moving" areas is key to consistently targeting and data-tracking those catalysts for growth, rather than spreading yourselve too thin trying a little bit of everything. Learn how to ditch the "fluff" and create focused IEPs that are appropriate yet achievable long-term at
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237. What 3 Words Do People Say Behind Your Back After an IEP Meeting?
05/18/2024
237. What 3 Words Do People Say Behind Your Back After an IEP Meeting?
What three words would people use to describe you after an IEP meeting? Maybe you owned traits like "caring," "patient," and "collaborative" - or maybe there's room to level up. As the school year ends, I share examples from Master IEP Coaches® striving to be a "lifeline," "data-driven," and "calm" for families. What three words do you wish defined your approach to getting the most out of IEP meetings? 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:
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236. 3 Buckets of End of the Year IEP Concerns
05/10/2024
236. 3 Buckets of End of the Year IEP Concerns
End of school year chaos got you frazzled? Let me walk you through how to brain dump your concerns, create your 3 buckets, and give you insights on 3 situations I'm coaching parents and teachers through right now inside the Master IEP Coach® Mentorship. If you're struggling through concerns like placement changes for next year, building transitions, and prepping for high school transition services, you're not alone. Get personalized IEP strategies through the Master IEP Coach® Mentorship to stop overthinking IEPs for good! Learn More About Master IEP Coach®: Send me a DM on Instagram:
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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:
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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:
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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:
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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:
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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!
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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:
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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:
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