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Full-Text Articles in Special Education and Teaching

Creating Accessible And Welcoming Iep Meetings: Empowering Teachers To Partner With Parents, Barbara Serianni, Nedra Cossa Feb 2026

Creating Accessible And Welcoming Iep Meetings: Empowering Teachers To Partner With Parents, Barbara Serianni, Nedra Cossa

Empowering Educators Conference

Parents’ experiences in eligibility and initial IEP meetings range from feeling welcomed to feeling unheard. This session equips special education teachers with practical strategies—clear communication, inclusive structures, and culturally responsive practices—to create accessible, empowering environments where families are valued as equal partners in the IEP process.


Another Day's Journey: Birthing Brilliance Through Culturally Relevant/Responsive/Sustaining Pedagogies, Letitice Johnson Jan 2026

Another Day's Journey: Birthing Brilliance Through Culturally Relevant/Responsive/Sustaining Pedagogies, Letitice Johnson

College of Graduate Studies: Theses & Dissertations

This dissertation examines the implementation of culturally relevant/responsive/sustaining mathematics using hip-hop pedagogy with special education students. The theoretical frameworks for this include with Culturally Relevant Pedagogy (Ladson-Billings, 1995), Culturally Responsive Teaching (Gay, 2018), and Culturally Sustaining Pedagogy (Paris & Alim, 2014). Utilizing an autobiographical case study methodology, I examined the use of culturally relevant math tasks and hip-hop pedagogy with 3rd grade students with disabilities. From this study, the following findings emerged: (1). Learning environments characterized by hope, empathy, and critical agency can be cultivated through the use of community resources and structured classroom norms that promote support, collaboration, …


Breaking The Pipeline: Exploring Exclusionary Discipline, Restorative Justice, And The Attitudes And Beliefs Of Educators, Ericka J. Varnedoe Apr 2025

Breaking The Pipeline: Exploring Exclusionary Discipline, Restorative Justice, And The Attitudes And Beliefs Of Educators, Ericka J. Varnedoe

Honors College Theses

This study explores the connection between exclusionary disciplinary practices and the school-to-prison pipeline. It highlights how exclusionary discipline, including suspensions and expulsions, disproportionately affects marginalized groups such as students of color, students with disabilities, and LGBTQ youth, further contributing to the school-to-prison pipeline. In contrast, restorative justice, a non-punitive approach, offers a promising alternative. Initially adopted from the criminal justice system, restorative justice has been integrated into school environments to foster positive school climates, improve experiences, and mitigate challenging behaviors. This research examines educators' attitudes toward both exclusionary and restorative practices, as well as their awareness and implementation of restorative …


Non-Aversive Social And Academic Interventions For Youth With Challenging Behavior, Tom Clees Mar 2025

Non-Aversive Social And Academic Interventions For Youth With Challenging Behavior, Tom Clees

National Youth Advocacy & Resilience Conference

Differential reinforcement procedures (DR) will be the focus of this presentation, including differential reinforcement of appropriate behavior that is alternative to (DRA), or incompatible with (DRI), targeted challenging behavior, and differential reinforcement of the absence of challenging behavior for specified intervals (DRO). In addition, combined strategies (DR with changing criteria and/or social skills instruction) will be presented. Novel applications will also be highlighted.


Harnessing The Power Of Applied Behavior Analysis: Evidence Based Interventions For Children With Autism, Sandrene Foster Feb 2025

Harnessing The Power Of Applied Behavior Analysis: Evidence Based Interventions For Children With Autism, Sandrene Foster

Empowering Educators Conference

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a proven therapy improving behavior, academics, and social skills, widely used for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and other needs. With ASD diagnoses rising, early intervention is essential. This presentation explores ABA fundamentals, effective early interventions, and continuous assessment to maximize outcomes for children with ASD.


Experiences Of Special Education Teachers During Covid-19: An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis Sheds Light On Learning Loss Among Young Students With Disabilities, Cassidy A. Stine Jan 2025

Experiences Of Special Education Teachers During Covid-19: An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis Sheds Light On Learning Loss Among Young Students With Disabilities, Cassidy A. Stine

College of Graduate Studies: Theses & Dissertations

Many aspects of teaching and learning for students with disabilities (SWDs) were drastically altered during the height of COVID-19. While many students experienced learning gaps or loss related to unprecedented and abrupt changes to their education, young SWDs in rural areas were faced with unique challenges. The purpose of this Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) study was to gain knowledge regarding teaching experiences/perceptions of rural Georgia K-5 special education teachers during the height of COVID-19 that shed light on learning loss among SWDs. The researcher was specifically interested in knowing more about teachers’ perceptions of academic and social-emotional learning loss as …


Comparing Social Media Platforms For Recruiting Special Education Teachers In A High-Need Area, Eric Landers, Caitlin Criss, Kathryn L. Haughney, Cynthia C. Massey, Stephanie Devine, Karin Fisher Jan 2025

Comparing Social Media Platforms For Recruiting Special Education Teachers In A High-Need Area, Eric Landers, Caitlin Criss, Kathryn L. Haughney, Cynthia C. Massey, Stephanie Devine, Karin Fisher

Georgia Educational Researcher

New pathways are needed to recruit high-quality special education graduates to meet the urgent teacher shortage. As a result, the researchers were awarded a grant from the CEEDAR Technical Assistance Center at the University of Florida to conduct a pilot study on special education teacher recruitment. The pilot study examined the correlation of geofencing social media targeting with applications received for a Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) program in the Southeastern U.S. Three groups were targeted (a) likely to have a bachelor’s degree, (b) likely to be associated with a targeted postal code, or (c) teacher candidates with a …


Students’ Perceptions Of Crisis Intervention: Using A Trauma Informed Approach Versus Restraint, Mary Triana, Eric Bieniek Mar 2024

Students’ Perceptions Of Crisis Intervention: Using A Trauma Informed Approach Versus Restraint, Mary Triana, Eric Bieniek

National Youth Advocacy & Resilience Conference

This presentation reviews first-of-its-kind research that directly interviewed students who have experienced both restraint and a restraint-free trauma-informed approach during crisis. It will review the results of these interviews including students’ understanding of interventions, relationships with staff, and recommendations for schools.


The Real Experts: Understanding Autism And Adhd Through The Lens Of The Individual, Mary Little Mar 2024

The Real Experts: Understanding Autism And Adhd Through The Lens Of The Individual, Mary Little

National Youth Advocacy & Resilience Conference

This presentation aims to spark intentional conversation and change geared towards shattering stigmas around the autistic and ADHD experience. Attendees will enhance their understanding of neuro-divergent populations in order to modify environments and provide interventions aligning with trauma informed care and inclusion. Attendees will also be given the opportunity to embrace the power of self disclosure and mentorship.


Teaching Students About Trauma, Stress And Brain Regulation, Kathy J. Van Horn Mar 2024

Teaching Students About Trauma, Stress And Brain Regulation, Kathy J. Van Horn

National Youth Advocacy & Resilience Conference

All students are impacted by stress and can benefit by understanding their brains, their stress response, and strategies for regulation. This presentation will provide practical principles and ideas for teaching students strategies and skills for physical, emotional, and cortical regulation.


Mindfulness: The Missing Link In Education, Ashley L. Baer Mar 2024

Mindfulness: The Missing Link In Education, Ashley L. Baer

National Youth Advocacy & Resilience Conference

Were you asked to pay attention or behave in school? As educators, we must stop expecting focus and self-regulation, and instead we must teach it. Learn how in this experiential session to connect and regulate students using the breathing ball, games, breath, and movement. Let’s practice!


The Power Of Team Sports And One Caring Adult, Don Poole Mar 2024

The Power Of Team Sports And One Caring Adult, Don Poole

National Youth Advocacy & Resilience Conference

When team sports are combined with one adult(Synergy) you can give a child a "Why". Also when you committ to not use limiting beliefs or make judgements about a child's future the sky is the limit. Using the Goldfish principles amazing outcomes will happen!


Self- Determination And Student- Led Ieps, Elizabeth R. Clarke Feb 2024

Self- Determination And Student- Led Ieps, Elizabeth R. Clarke

Empowering Educators Conference

In this session, Dr. Clarke and her student, a high school senior, will analyze and instruct educational professionals about self-determination. She will explain how to give students a voice in their IEP and their educational plans, as well as the subsequent effects: boosting motivation, independence and academic success.


Teaching Students About Trauma And Brain Regulation, Kathy Van Horn, Joshua Macneill Mar 2023

Teaching Students About Trauma And Brain Regulation, Kathy Van Horn, Joshua Macneill

National Youth Advocacy & Resilience Conference

It is important to empower students with information and understanding about trauma along with concepts and interventions for brain regulation and healing. When information about the impact of trauma is shared with students without first establishing a solid foundation for hope and change, it can do more harm than good. In this presentation, we will share guidelines and ideas for teaching key trauma-informed principles to students including physical, emotional and social regulation strategies as well as an understanding of the stress response.


A Trauma Responsive Approach To Fostering Resilience, Addressing Equity Issues And Improving Student Wellness And Academic Success, Mark Harrington, Joe Thompson, Kimberly Witeck Mar 2023

A Trauma Responsive Approach To Fostering Resilience, Addressing Equity Issues And Improving Student Wellness And Academic Success, Mark Harrington, Joe Thompson, Kimberly Witeck

National Youth Advocacy & Resilience Conference

We’ll start with our school’s motto, “Family, Love, Respect,” which is posted in nearly every hallway, office and gathering place in our school. We attempt to provide each student with a strong sense of each. Although ours is an alternative high school, filled with stories of trauma, neglect and despair, our students are resilient! With that in mind we have created a number of programs to encourage resilience, provide a healthy path forward, decrease student discipline, and foster student success. All of these programs, and the stories we share detailing what our students have overcome show just how resilient young …


Write The Book! How To Share Research And Promising Practices To Support Underserved Students, Douglas Rife Mar 2023

Write The Book! How To Share Research And Promising Practices To Support Underserved Students, Douglas Rife

National Youth Advocacy & Resilience Conference

The needs of our students have grown exponentially in the last two years. Educators, community services and care givers are at a loss to support all of the academic, physical and emotional challenges our students are facing. Learn tips and processes for writing a book to share your research, experience and solutions to ensure the happiness and success of ALL students.


Special Education Teachers Rock!, Allison C. Tarrer Ed.S Feb 2023

Special Education Teachers Rock!, Allison C. Tarrer Ed.S

Empowering Educators Conference

Embarking on your career as a special educator?! We need you! Come join me in adding tips, tricks, and strategies to reach learners with learning disabilities and improve their chances to succeed. Leave with an excitement for reaching students with disabilities knowing you can and will make a difference!


The Experiences Of Georgia Special Education Teachers During The Pandemic, Karin Fisher, Edie Grice, Adia Greer, Laura Echezabal Feb 2023

The Experiences Of Georgia Special Education Teachers During The Pandemic, Karin Fisher, Edie Grice, Adia Greer, Laura Echezabal

Empowering Educators Conference

In 2020, COVID-19 wreaked havoc on Georgia’s educational systems. Schools closed, and many continued providing education through virtual platforms. It is well-known that students with disabilities struggled during the pandemic; however, their teachers' experiences are unexplored. As a result, we conducted a mixed-methods study to document their experiences.


The Effects Of Student And Behavior-Specific Praise On Students Who Receive Special Education Services, Emily Ward, Haven Ackerman Apr 2022

The Effects Of Student And Behavior-Specific Praise On Students Who Receive Special Education Services, Emily Ward, Haven Ackerman

GS4 Student Scholars Symposium

The purpose of this research was to determine the effectiveness of behavior specific praise on continuous student attention to tasks. Behavior specific praise is defined as a positive statement directed toward a student or group of students that acknowledged a desired behavior in specific, observable, and measurable terms. Past studies have shown a positive correlation between positive reinforcement and the students' engagement in the general education classroom. Current research also indicates that behavior specific praise has proven to be significantly beneficial for a wide range of students including students in the general education, special education, and gifted classroom. For this …


Our Vision Through The Trauma Lens, Lindsay Thompson, Ryan Maher, Cassie Crowder, Sherida Mcfarland, Beth Hazelwood Mar 2022

Our Vision Through The Trauma Lens, Lindsay Thompson, Ryan Maher, Cassie Crowder, Sherida Mcfarland, Beth Hazelwood

National Youth Advocacy & Resilience Conference

It is our goal to change the perceptions of alternative schools as a placement for “bad kids”, to a place where students gain the support needed to become successful in their home schools by looking through the lens of the effects of trauma and its impact on students.


Pathways To Resilience: Lessons Learned From Covid-19, Mary Ann Hollingsworth Mar 2022

Pathways To Resilience: Lessons Learned From Covid-19, Mary Ann Hollingsworth

National Youth Advocacy & Resilience Conference

Out of the mouths of youth themselves while in the Covid-19 pandemic - pathways to build and sustain resilience in the life challenges that come our way at all stages of life.


Intervening In The School To Prison Pipeline For Students With Dis/Ability, Miruna Ouatu-Lascar Mar 2022

Intervening In The School To Prison Pipeline For Students With Dis/Ability, Miruna Ouatu-Lascar

National Youth Advocacy & Resilience Conference

This workshop will explore the intersection of disability and ethnicity in order to assist workshop participants in analyzing the inequity present both within the construct of disability and race and how this intersectional inequity manifests within the special education system for students of color with disabilities and how such inequities contribute to the over representation of students of color with disabilities in the school to prison phenomenon. Furthermore, the workshop aims to give participants an understanding of Dis/Crit theory and how incorporating Dis/Crit pedagogy within the larger framework of Critical Pedagogy practice serves the needs of our most underserved students …


Bars To Bridges: Culturally Responsive Education Advocacy, Micaella Flores, Christine Otto Mar 2022

Bars To Bridges: Culturally Responsive Education Advocacy, Micaella Flores, Christine Otto

National Youth Advocacy & Resilience Conference

We'll explore tangible ways to advocate for BIPOC students who've experienced educational disruptions. We’ll discuss the methods and model The Bars to Bridges Program uses to successfully transition justice involved youth into their academic settings and maintain engagement in education.


Executive Function In The Classroom, Dr. Kaylin Coody Coody Mar 2022

Executive Function In The Classroom, Dr. Kaylin Coody Coody

National Youth Advocacy & Resilience Conference

Do you have students in your classroom who have difficulty with working memory, inhibitory control and cognitive flexibility? These are indicators of struggling with executive function. This session will cover the brain-implications and concrete strategies to work with students at all grade levels.


Schoolwide Strategies To Scale Up Sel And Trauma Informed Practices, Gastrid Harrigan, Fanya Jabouin-Monnay Mar 2021

Schoolwide Strategies To Scale Up Sel And Trauma Informed Practices, Gastrid Harrigan, Fanya Jabouin-Monnay

National Youth Advocacy & Resilience Conference

This presentation will provide participants with strategies to energize, recharge, and upgrade their Social Emotional Learning (SEL) and trauma-informed practices to better meet the needs of the 21st Century learner. Participants will be exposed to researched-based strategies, methods, and techniques to scale up their SEL initiatives. They will also learn ways to incorporate trauma-informed practices into their school culture and classroom routines.


Teaching So They Get It To “Got It!” - The Instructional Cha-Chas, Leann M. Nickelsen Mrs. Mar 2021

Teaching So They Get It To “Got It!” - The Instructional Cha-Chas, Leann M. Nickelsen Mrs.

National Youth Advocacy & Resilience Conference

Merging neuroscience, formative assessment process and differentiation, Instructional Cha-Chas are 4 steps (chunk/chew/check/change) for planning and implementing lessons that prevent and close gaps in all subject areas and grades. You will get templates, tools, and strategies for teaching content so it’s meaningful, for engaging students with high-impact thinking, and for examining and responding to daily student evidence so ALL students get it to “Got It!”


Professional Development For Working With Students With Autism Spectrum Disorders And Teacher Self-Efficacy, Alison Johnson, Lina Soares, Antonio P. Gutierrez De Blume Jan 2021

Professional Development For Working With Students With Autism Spectrum Disorders And Teacher Self-Efficacy, Alison Johnson, Lina Soares, Antonio P. Gutierrez De Blume

Georgia Educational Researcher

The purpose of this pilot study was to determine the effect of teacher professional development for working with students with Autism Spectrum Disorders and teacher (N = 56) self-efficacy in the general education classroom. A pretest/posttest quasi-experimental research design was implemented. Teachers in one randomly assigned school received professional development training on research-based practices in working with students with autism to determine if the training had any effect on their perceived self-efficacy ratings and teachers in the other school were randomly assigned to serve as the control (i.e., no additional professional development training was provided during the research phase). …


How Do Special Education Teachers View The Phenomenon Of Black Male Overrepresentation In Special Education?, Lelon B. Jeffers Jan 2021

How Do Special Education Teachers View The Phenomenon Of Black Male Overrepresentation In Special Education?, Lelon B. Jeffers

College of Graduate Studies: Theses & Dissertations

As the student population in many U.S. public schools grows increasingly more diverse, the need to assess the educational practices utilized in public schools grows as well. It is imperative for educators to make a concerted effort to ensure the rights and needs of minority students are being addressed in public schools. It is the duty of educators and policy makers to protect those students who are most marginalized by society. The purpose of this qualitative study was to explore the phenomenon of Black male overrepresentation in special education, and to ascertain the views and perspectives of special education teachers …


The Effects Of Schema-Based Instruction On Solving Mathematics Word Problems, Scarlet Hughes, Joshua Cuevas Dr. Jul 2020

The Effects Of Schema-Based Instruction On Solving Mathematics Word Problems, Scarlet Hughes, Joshua Cuevas Dr.

Georgia Educational Researcher

The purpose of this study was to investigate the frequency with which students use math word problem strategies during and after schema-based instruction. It examines the extent to which students increase their ability to correctly solve word problems. It compares students’ attitudes toward mathematics problem solving before and after schema-based instruction. The study was conducted in a resource class with seven second-grade students on individualized education programs (IEPs). A single-subject research design was used. The schema-based instruction was implemented by the special education teacher in a small group setting. Students showed an increase in attempted and correct strategy use during …


Empowering Teacher Teams To Expand Student Ownership, Paul Martuccio, Paul J. Bloomberg Dr. Mar 2020

Empowering Teacher Teams To Expand Student Ownership, Paul Martuccio, Paul J. Bloomberg Dr.

National Youth Advocacy & Resilience Conference

The notion of empowerment is at the core of The Public School 13 learning culture. Empowerment is about creating conditions for strengthening efficacy school wide – for students, for teachers, for teams – for the COLLECTIVE! Learn how The Public School 13 cultivates teacher leadership through collaborative inquiry with a laser-like focus on expanding student ownership and agency.