🎙️ Episode Summary:Welcome back to The FAST 15 podcast, delivering transformative tips for special educators in a quick 15-minute format. Sponsored by Specially Designed Education Services, this episode features Suzanne Fitzgerald, President and CEO of Specially Designed Education Services and author of the Functional Academics Program.Key Points:Part two of the discussion delves into progress monitoring and the pivotal role of data in supporting meaningful IEP goals. Suzanne explores the ben...
Welcome to another episode of The FAST 15 podcast, where we deliver transformative tips and motivation for special educators in just 15 minutes. Sponsored by Specially Designed Education Services, publishers of The Functional Academics Program, this episode features Suzanne Fitzgerald, President and CEO of Specially Designed Education Services and author of the Functional Academics Program.Key Points:Suzanne brings 30 years of diverse experience in special education to the conversation.The di...
The "Fast 15" podcast is sponsored by Specially Designed Education Services (SDES) and the Functional Academics Program. Check out their amazing work here: www.sdesworks.comWhat could be more delightful than pulling out your most hilarious, festive, and downright ugly holiday sweater? That's how we kick off today's podcast, with a nostalgic trip down Ugly Sweater Day lane. We unwrap the origins of this absurd yet endearing tradition and even share a few of our own cringeworthy sweater t...
Welcome to a festive ride with "Fast 15" where we jingle all the way through December's educational maze. As your guide, Barb Beck, I promise to help you tread the thin ice between holiday anticipation and classroom objectives, ensuring productivity without feeling swamped. We're also taking a detour to celebrate some key cultural milestones like National Pie Day, Special Education Day, International Persons with Disabilities Day, and surprisingly, World Soil Day. This episode comes with...
Show Notes:Today on the FAST 15, we welcome Jane Singleton, an expert in educational development and coaching with over 12 years of experience. Jane brings a wealth of knowledge in the fields of psychology, communication studies, and special education, having earned her B.S. from James Madison University and an M.A. from the College of William and Mary.Jane has sought advanced learning opportunities, including The Harvard Institute: The Art of Leadership and executive coaching certification. ...
In this episode, we are picking up where we left off with JR Stevens. Join us as we illuminate the strengths and potential of individuals like Mike, who has Williams syndrome, and show the world how tailored education and employment can significantly enhance their lives. Mike's story is one of perseverance and the remarkable impact of aligning work with one's innate abilities, underscoring the need for long-term, stable employment pathways that not only embrace but celebrate the unique ...
Embark on a heartfelt journey with JR Stevens, a devoted advocate for the special needs community and a tech industry powerhouse, whose life's work has been shaped by his commitment to inclusion and empowerment. As someone who has witnessed the transformative effect of support on people with disabilities, I can't wait to share JR's inspiring tales from his days as a peer tutor to his influential position at Ooma a technology company. His personal anecdotes seamlessly weave into professional a...
Imagine navigating a world you're unable to see - sounds scary, doesn't it? Tune in as we unravel the mysteries and challenges of Optic Nerve Hypoplasia (ONH), the leading cause of childhood blindness. Our special guests, Joanna and her remarkable 13-year-old daughter, Chrissa, take us on their incredible journey of living with ONH. They reveal the power of community support through a Facebook group that's grown from 500 to a whopping 5,700 members. Chrissa isn't just any teenager - she'...
Have you ever stopped to consider the incredible strength that lies in embracing our individuality and the unique interests that define who we are? Join us for this inspiring conversation with Andrew, one of our launch leaders, and his devoted mom, Annette. Their journey is a testament to the power of personal interests in shaping our lives and how our unique personal qualities and interests can bring us closer to the people we love. Learn about Andrew’s fascination with orcas and how it has ...
Welcome to this heartwarming and inspiring episode of the Launch Buddies Podcast. Get ready to embark on a journey of love, determination, and advocacy as this mom, Jeanette share the story of her incredible son, living with autism, and the challenges and triumphs experienced along the way. Today, we're shedding light on the importance of building a strong support system, the power of early intervention, and the significance of individualized education plans. Jeanette, a mothe...
Remember how exciting and nerve-wracking it was to start your first job? Join us as we hear heartwarming stories from our amazing Launch Buddies, Koa, Jay, and others, as they share their supported employment journeys and the invaluable role of job coaches in their lives. You'll be inspired by Koa's experience as an MC for the Adults Transitioning to Independence graduation ceremony, which has helped him grow in confidence with public speaking!In the second part of our empowering conversation...
Welcome to The Launch Buddies Podcast, where we celebrate the power of connection, self-expression, and building relationships. In this episode, our charismatic host Darien, along with co-hosts Barb and Andrew, lead a lively discussion about sharing personal preferences, finding common interests, and embracing the joy of connecting with others.Join us as we dive into the importance of exploring a variety of interests and activities that allow us to connect socially and build meaningful relati...
Interested in Supported Employment and College Journeys for youth with disabilities? If so, you are in the right place! In this episode, our hosts Darien, Barb, and Andrew delve into the exciting and sometimes challenging journey from school to the world of work for young adults with disabilities. They are joined by some incredible buddies who share their unique perspectives and personal stories about their school-to-work and college journeys.The goal of this episode is to in...
Our Buddies discuss their PERSONAL STORIES from high school special education. In this special episode of "The Launch Buddies Podcast," join Barbara Beck (Host) as she is joined by her Co-Hosts, Darien and Andrew, for an intimate and candid conversation about their personal stories and experiences in high school special education classes, as well as their journeys beyond.Together, they dive into the challenges, triumphs, and invaluable lessons learned during their time in special educat...
In this inspiring episode of The Launch Buddies Podcast, hosts Barbara Beck, Darien Watson, and Andrew dive into the topic of dreams, aspirations, and making a positive impact in the world. They are joined by fellow Launch Buddy, Sam, who shares his recent accomplishment of securing a job and the importance of practicing interview skills. The hosts discuss their own dreams, including Andrew's desire to help the homeless and be involved in animal conservation, as well as his passion for travel...
Join us for the latest episode of The Launch Buddies Podcast: Self-Advocate Voices from High School and Beyond! In this engaging conversation, our buddies Darien, Andrew, Sam, and Ari open up about their favorite things in life and the challenges they face while navigating the world with disabilities.If you want to see the worksheet we used and use it for yourself, CHECK IT OUT! https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Key-4-My-SelfieFavorites-Interactive-Google-Slides-IEP-Transition-Plans...
Show Notes:Welcome to Episode #1 of "The Launch Buddies" podcast, produced by our media production class! Join us as we embark on a journey of empowerment, inclusion, and self-advocacy through the power of social stories.If you want to use the same template we used to prep for this episode, CHECK IT OUT HERE: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Key-2-My-Personal-Story-Interactive-Google-Slides-IEP-Transition-Planning--7044099In this episode, we're joined by special guests Darien...
When Estefania Holt transitioned from the traditional classroom to the open waves, she didn't just change her scenery—she transformed lives. On our latest episode, the founder of Shaka Soul Surfers shares how her innovative surf program is making waves in the special needs community, providing an uplifting and inclusive experience for children with developmental disabilities. Episode Notes:Welcome to Part Two of our engaging conversation with Estefania Holt, the inspiring founder of Shaka Sou...
In this episode of the FAST 15 podcast, we are joined by Estefania Holt, founder of Shaka Soul Surfers, a nonprofit organization that brings the joy of surfing to people with developmental disabilities and their families. Estefania's background as a special education teacher, combined with her passion for promoting acceptance and kindness, led her to create a space where individuals with disabilities can experience the thrill of surfing in a safe and supportive environment.Estefania shares he...
In this captivating continuation of the Fast 15 podcast, we delve deeper into the world of special education with the remarkable Catherine Whitcher, a passionate advocate with over two decades of experience. Catherine sheds light on the transformative concept of Master IEP Coach®, a groundbreaking program designed to facilitate collaboration among parents, teachers, administrators, and therapists in crafting effective Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). Through engaging discussion, Cath...