29 episodes later, this is the last episode of Season 5! Listen up as we preview some topics we're thinking about and share some summer updates. Thanks for being such loyal listeners. Have a wonderful wrap up to your school year and we'll be back in the fall for Season 6.

Robin, Abby and Angela

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Listen in as Robin and Abby discuss the recent appointment of the new OSEP Director.

Here is the company that designs products to help feel more grounded and in control (Calmware).

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Join Robin and Abby as they reflect on reaching the mid-way point of season 2. If you'd like to suggest a topic for a future podcast or ask a question, please reach out to astalpodcast@gmail.com

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Specially Designed Instruction in the Heart and Soul of Special Education. For more information on this topic check out these great resources from the United Federation of Teachers (UFT) at:  https://www.uft.org/teaching/students-disabilities/specially-designed-instruction

Also if you are interested in observing/peer observing/auditing your instruction for ongoing professional development purposes - here is a quick tool an observer can use to look for the core elements of SDI during instruction:

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1nCD1Ll2XfX9OfHPX8fYe_bpdnZpNX5BYolCS0e28Uek/edit?usp=sharing

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Here are some additional resources related to invisible disabilities:

https://invisibledisabilities.org/about/aboutida/

https://www.disabled-world.com/disability/types/invisible/

https://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/docs/hq5269.html

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In this podcast, Robin and Abby talk about the instructional strategy of Universal Design for Learning.  You can learn more at :

CAST - Located near Boston, CAST is a nonprofit education research and development organization that created the Universal Design for Learning framework and UDL Guidelines, now used the world over to make learning more inclusive.

The acronym "CAST" derives from the original name of our organization, Center for Applied Special Technology. Now we're simply CAST.

Our CAST of characters includes over 50 talented employees, including world-class educators, learning scientists, instructional designers, literacy experts, policy analysts, UX and graphic designers, software engineers, and a first-rate administrative and executive staff.

CAST | Until learning has no limits®

Alex Trusdell- founder of Adaptive Design Association, NYC
"Our purpose is to instigate a revolutionary shift, one where we reject barriers and segregation and choose instead to imagine and build custom adaptations; where we share designs and stories; and where we respond to difference and disability, not with fear or neglect, but with solidarity and love.”

Temple Israel's supercool ramp (it looks better than the stairs, we think!)

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Temple_Israel_(Boston)#/media/File:Temple_Israel_Boston.jpg

https://disabilitiesinclusion.org/exemplar-congregations/temple-israel/

And here's the definition of a "closer"....
In baseball, a closing pitcher, more frequently referred to as a closer (abbreviated CL), is a relief pitcher who specializes in getting the final outs in a close game when his team is leading. The role is often assigned to a team's best reliever.

That's it for this week folks!
Robin, Abby and Angela

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On this week's podcast, we interview Bill Kelly, dad of 5, 1 who has a complex disability. You'll hear his lens about navigating the special education world, while focusing on the "long game."

You can learn more about Bill's work at CAIA
The global professional body dedicated to alternative investments, seeking greater alignment, transparency, and knowledge for all investors. We are a member-driven organization representing professionals in more than 95 countries, and advocating for the industry through our events, publications, and credential programs.

He also mentioned two agencies that support(ed)  Max

The Charles River Center 
At the Charles River Center, we provide programs and services for over 950 children and adults focusing on:

• Employment Services
• Day Habilitation
• Residential Services
• Family Support

The Guild Human Services:
The Guild for Human Services offers a continuum of services for youth and adults with intellectual disabilities, including autism, and behavioral/mental health challenges.

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During this episode, Robin, Angela and Abby interview Laura Gillis, a parent side attorney. 

https://www.legillislaw.com/attorney/laura-gillis

To learn more about the trainings offered by the Federation for Children with Special Needs that was referenced in the podcast, go to: https://fcsn.org/

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MA General Laws Regarding School Discipline

The Big Three (the weapons and drugs are combined in section a - FYI) ....

"Notwithstanding any general or special law to the contrary, all student handbooks shall contain the following provisions:

(a) Any student who is found on school premises or at school-sponsored or school-related events, including athletic games, in possession of a dangerous weapon, including, but not limited to, a gun or a knife; or a controlled substance as defined in chapter ninety-four C, including, but not limited to, marijuana, cocaine, and heroin, may be subject to expulsion from the school or school district by the principal.

(b) Any student who assaults a principal, assistant principal, teacher, teacher's aide or other educational staff on school premises or at school-sponsored or school-related events, including athletic games, may be subject to expulsion from the school or school district by the principal."

Alternatives to Suspension (thanks to PBISworld.com for their references)

Why should I do it:

• Suspending kids is very unproductive for academics
• Some kids get suspended on purpose to get out of work or away from something they do not want to cope or deal with
• Suspensions are not an effective deterrent for many kids, who do not see it as a significant consequence or negative stimulus
• Providing alternatives to suspensions can be much more effective in getting students’ behavior to change
• There are many alternatives that motivate students better than suspending them

When should I do it:

• When a student gets into trouble and suspended frequently
• When a student is trying to get suspended on purpose or to get out of something
• When students really need the instruction but a consequence or discipline is warranted
• When suspensions do not seem to be doing anything and are ineffective

How do I do it:

• There are various alternatives to suspension and ways to carry them out.
• Always use a neutral tone and do not allow yourself to be drawn into power struggles.
• Alternatives may be discussed with a student or students before implementing them
• Some common alternatives include:
  • in-school suspension
  • school service (for example, assisting custodial staff with after school clean-up, lunch clean-up, etc)
  • mini course
  • counseling
  • community service
  • restitution
  • problem solving or behavior contract
  • alternative programming
  • loss of privileges (like lunch, recess, social time, etc)
  • detention (before or after school)
  • mentoring (with a teacher, counselor, or other staff member before or after school)
  • behavioral contracts
  • referral to community mental health services

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Our gift to you, loyal podcast listener....

Your very own customizable Manifestation Determination Hearing worksheet.

May the force be with you and may you follow all the regulations.

Robin, Angela and Abby

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1i7FArJFEG4QgoKVsYFoTJs27TrTv7qB0/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=106323109347884729452&rtpof=true&sd=true

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Somerville Suspension case
https://www.bostonglobe.com/2021/05/25/metro/they-called-police-6-year-old-now-somerville-school-leaders-are-suspending-school-police-programs/

The Great Divide series - Boston Globe
https://www.bostonglobe.com/metro/education/k-12/education-project/?p1=Article_Inline_Related_Link

MADESE laws and regulations regarding Student Discipline
https://www.mass.gov/info-details/massachusetts-law-about-student-discipline

MGL c.71, § 37H  Schools must have policies about student discipline, and students must get a handbook that explains the rules. A student who brings a weapon or drugs to school, or assaults a staff member may be expelled.

MGL c.71, § 37H-1/2  If a student is charged with a felony, they may be suspended. If they are convicted of a felony, they may be expelled. The student can appeal the decision.

MGL c.71, § 37H-3/4  Rules for schools to follow if they suspend or expel a student for any other reason

MGL c.76, § 21  Helping a student who is suspended or expelled continue their education

Mahanoy Area School District v. B. L., 594 U.S. ___ , 141 S.Ct. 2038
While public schools may have a special interest in regulating some off-campus student speech, the special interests offered by the school are not sufficient to overcome B. L.’s interest in free expression in this case.

Doe v. Worcester Public Schools, 484 Mass. 598 (2020)
The school "superintendent lacked authority to delegate responsibility for hearing and deciding the appeal, given that the initial suspension exceeded ninety days and therefore constituted an expulsion."

Massachusetts school discipline laws & regulations by category, US Dept. of Education, March 31, 2021
"For each of the states or jurisdictions, discipline related laws and regulations are categorized by the type of specific discipline issue they address. Resources from government-sponsored websites and other sources are also included for each jurisdiction where available."

Parent guide to school discipline: when my child is disciplined at school: a guide for Massachusetts families, Appleseed Center, 2015.
Great information to help parents when their child has been disciplined at school. Explains some of the common consequences for misbehavior, from missing recess to expulsion. Includes a lot of information on appealing a school discipline decision.

Prot

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If you are interested in learning more about the book mentioned in this episode, you can find Chip Wood's great resource "Yardsticks" at: https://www.responsiveclassroom.org/product/yardsticks-4th-edition/

Curious to learn more about Early Intervention (EI) services in your State or Territory?
The CDC's website states that  EI:

• Is the term used to describe the services and supports that are available to babies and young children with developmental delays and disabilities and their families.
• May include speech therapy, physical therapy, and other types of services based on the needs of the child and family.
• Can have a significant impact on a child’s ability to learn new skills and overcome challenges and can increase success in school and life.
• Programs are available in every state and territory (see each program’s contact information). These publicly funded programs provide services for free or at reduced cost for any child who is eligible.

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For more information about the articles Robin and Abby discuss in this episode check out:

EdWeek February 13th - 

ASCD blog February 2nd - 

Redefining the Science of Reading

And Natalie Wexler's new book published by ASCD:

Beyond the Science of Reading: Connecting Literacy Instruction to the Science of Learning

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Have you ever wondered what a BCBA is or about their role in schools?  BCBA stands for Board Certified Behavior Analyst and in this podcast, you'll learn about a BCBA's role on a school team and some of Kristin's top practical tips for teachers and parents. 

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Masking can be a contentious issue for some folks.
Not for us! 
Here are some resources and articles if you are interested in learning more:

States w mandates 8/21

https://www.usnews.com/news/best

-states/articles/these-are-the-states-with-mask-mandates

Premise:Under the ADA and the Rehabilitation Act, public schools cannot exclude students with disabilities or segregate them unnecessarily from their peers. Schools are also required to provide reasonable modifications to allow students with disabilities to participate fully.

“By making schools a dangerous place for these students with disabilities, they are essentially forcing their parents to choose between their child’s education and their child’s health,” said Susan Mizner, director of the ACLU’s Disability Rights Project. “And that is going to exclude them from their public education.

Science is real  cdc https://www.cnbc.com/2021/07/27/cdc-to-reverse-indoor-mask-policy-to-recommend-them-for-fully-vaccinated-people-in-covid-hot-spots.html

Massachusetts context   https://www.doe.mass.edu/covid19/on-desktop/2021-0825mask-requirement.pdf

"Effective immediately, public school students (age 5 and above) and staff in all grades are required to wear masks indoors in schools, except as noted below. Masks are not required when outdoors. All visitors are also expected to wear a mask in school buildings."

National context aclu case https://wtop.com/education/2021/08/aclu-seeks-halt-to-south-carolina-ban-on-school-mask-decrees/

ACLU case detail:

https://www.aclu.org/press-releases/disability-rights-groups-challenge-south-carolina-ban-school-mask-mandates

Aclu original filing https://www.aclu.org/legal-document/disability-rights-south-carolina-v-mcmaster-complaint

Madese doc on masks

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If you are interested in some of the topics we discussed in this episode, here are some related links.


History of the Paralympic Movement

https://www.paralympic.org/ipc/history

Becca Meyers and the Paralympics

https://www.wbur.org/cognoscenti/2021/08/03/becca-meyers-personal-care-attendant-tokyo-paralympics-aimee-christian

Special Olympics and the Paralympics - What’s the Difference?
https://www.specialolympics.com.au/Stories/special-olympics-paralympics-whats-the-difference

Paralympics Sports and Athletes to Watch

https://www.npr.org/2021/08/24/1030632463/tokyo-paralympic-sports-athletes-to-watch

Full Schedule of Paralympics Events

https://olympics.com/tokyo-2020/paralympic-games/en/results/all-sports/paralympic-schedule.htm

Paralympic Opening Ceremonies

https://www.npr.org/live-updates/morning-edition-2021-08-24#badminton-and-taekwondo-make-their-paralympic-debut-in-tokyo

Team USA website

https://www.teamusa.org/News/2021/August/23/What-To-Watch-For-And-How-To-Watch-The-Paralympic-Games-Tokyo-2020

Learn More about the Athletes

https://www.teamusa.org/News/2021/August/21/History-Milestones-And-Medals-The-Team-USA-Paralympians-Leading-The-Way

First Gold Medal

https://www.cnn.com/2021/08/25/sport/paralympics-tokyo-2020-day-1-intl-hnk-spt/index.html

First USA Medalist

https://olympics.nbcsports.com/2021/08/25/tokyo-paralympics-first-usa-medal-shawn-morelli/

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Person Centered Planning/Free Britney

Person-centered planning is a forum through which people join in intentional efforts to support, expand and deepen the direct and visible contribution a person with a disability makes to community life. It recognizes, embraces and celebrates the gifts of diversity and shared humanity. This ultimately leads to greater inclusion as valued members of both community and society. (Cornell University Employment and Disability Institute)

If you are interested in viewing the film mentioned in this episode, Intelligent Lives, click here for a link.

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And that's a wrap on Season 1! Thank you so much for listening and be on the look out for a trailer with highlights for Season 2....coming soon!

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In this episode, Robin, Angela  and Abby discuss the positives and negatives when it comes to special education evaluations. 

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Angela, Robin and Abby discuss the topic of Bullying and how it connects to special education. For more detail about the laws and regulations in Massachusetts check out these links:
 
Section 37O: School bullying prohibited; bullying prevention and intervention plans; reporting of bullying incident date

MADESE resources related to this topic

Evidence Based Programs, Curricula, and Practices (from MADESE website)

The law directs the Department to compile, post, and periodically update a list of bullying prevention and intervention resources, evidence-based curricula, best practices, and academic-based research. Please note that the list of programs and the links to other sites are provided as resources for schools and districts. School and district leaders have discretion to select evidence-based curricula and other resources that are not on the list. Local education officials should determine which bullying prevention curricula and strategies are most appropriate for each school and grade they oversee, taking into account students' developmental stages, community contexts, and other factors.

At no time should this list be considered exhaustive, as other evidence-based curricula, programs and practices may exist that are not posted here. In addition, evidence-based programs and practices that address school climate and culture, as well as students' social and emotional wellbeing, may not have been evaluated for bullying prevention effectiveness, but should be considered as part of a district's approach to creating safe and healthy learning environments.

• Al's Pals: Kids Making Healthy Choices
• Bullying Prevention Program (Olweus)
• KiVA Antibullying Program
• Learning Together
• PATHS (Promoting Alternative Thinking Strategies)
• Peacebuilders
• Second Step

Resources that have identified evidence based bullying prevention and intervention efforts include (but are not necessarily limited to) the following:

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Preventing Bullying |Violence Prevention Injury Center|CDC
• Cyberbullying Research Center - How to Identify, Prevent and Respond
• The National Center on Safe Supportive Learning Environments, Bullying/Cyberbullying | Safe Supportive Learning (ed.gov)
• Pacer Center, National Center for Bullying Prevention
• The University of Colorado Boulder, Blueprints for Healthy Youth Development

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Join Robin, Abby and Angela as they speak with Lateefah Frank, about the history of the METCO program and the over/under-representation of black and brown students in special education.

METCO is the largest and longest-running voluntary school desegregation program in the U.S. enrolling over 3,000 Boston-resident students in suburban public schools. 

Watch these videos to learn more about this program (from METCO Inc. website)
METCO: Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow
METCO : Limitless Opportunities 

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In this episode,  Mollie from NJ asks: why are there so many IEP objectives? And why are they so hard to measure?  

If you have questions or ideas for future episodes, please send an email to ASTALpodcast@gmail.com

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Summer, summer, summertime....join Robin, Abby and Angela as they unpack the hot topic of extended school year services. 

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Join Robin and Angela as they discuss the TLC show Baylen Out Loud, which follows a young adult with Tourette's Syndrome and her quest for independence. 

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In this episode Angela, Robin and Abby speak with Dr. Elizabeth Stringer Keefe, Professor of Education at Stonehill College, about disrupting the traditional model and creating revolutionary new teacher preparation programs.  

Please reach out to @ProfKeefe to learn more about the teacher survey mentioned in the podcast. 

Some of the acronyms used in the podcast:
AT- Assistive Technology
AAC- Augmentative/Alternative Communication
MTEL- Massachusetts Test for Educator License
MCAS- Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System
CMR- Code of Massachusetts Regulations
SSAS- Student Support Access and Success Framework
Project SOLVE- Strategies and Opportunities for Leading Virtual Education

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Just as teaching is both an art and a science, the skills and qualities that make an effective special educator are a mix of attributes. Listen in as Angela, Robin and Abby take a very candid look at what makes or breaks a special education teacher.  Learn more about the hiring process, interview questions to stand out from the crowd and how great special educators are supported.

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Robin, Angela and Abby walk listeners through the spectrum of placement options.  Listen in on a spirited discussion sharing examples, stories and creative ways to think about the HOWS and WHYS of truly determining the Least Restrictive Environment.

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https://exceptionalchildren.org/sites/default/files/2020-07/Code%20of%20Ethics.pdf

In this podcast, Robin, Abby and Angela unpack the Council for Exceptional Children's (CEC) Code of Ethics.  CEC is a professional organization dedicated to improving the educational successes of students with disabilities.  Education is a profession without a universal Code of Ethics- tune in to see if you agree or disagree with the ones we discuss! 

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Angela, Robin and Abby mix it up with a lighthearted look at jargon in the world of special ed.  Plan ahead and have  libation of your choice handy! 

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A thoughtful walk through the sometimes confusing  arc  of inclusion confusion and the resulting consistently inconsistent approaches to educating students with disabilities alongside their non disabled peers.

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In this brand new podcast, 3 long time friends and colleagues- a special education teacher, an administrator, and a lawyer-will discuss, banter, and explore the complex and interesting  landscape of special education in the United States. Tune in for special guests from all corners of the special and general education world-parents, teachers, experts, evaluators, lawyers, advocates and more.  Even if this is not a topic you are familiar with, come along for the ride anyway!  We guarantee you will leave informed, entertained, and with something new to think about every episode.

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Three professionals in the field of special education launch episode. Funny, irreverent and thought provoking analysis and discussion of key ideas in the world of special education.

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Angela, Robin and Abby reflect on the role parents play in special education and the big takeaways from interviewing two of the original adopters of Inclusive education.

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Interview with two moms who made it work for their (now adult) children.  Reflections on what is was like to be an early-adopter of that thing called Inclusion,  lessons learned, wishes for do-overs, and what really matters to parents and students (hint: it's all about connection)

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Tonight Abby, Angela and Robin answer a listener question from a Principal who is struggling with 1 or a few but mightygroup of students who are using up all the school resources. 

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From the 1620’s to today Education in the United States has been a fraught endeavor - especially for students with disabilities. In this episode, Robin, Angela and Abby trace a timeline of education in the US with a specific focus on how students with disabilities were included (spoiler alert: they weren’t).

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Part Two of the COVID convo - what’s next, how will we ever get out of this and what, if anything, have we learned.

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 Robin, Angela and Abby reflect on the impact COVID has had on teaching students with disabilities this terrible, no good, very bad year.

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Angela was asked to be a guest on Marisha Mets Podcast: Special Ed Leaders: Unplugged. to speak about Due Process.

The full guide on the website is also up here and the YouTube video is here. 

In the world of special education, due process is a cornerstone for protecting the rights of students with disabilities. At its core, it ensures fairness and accountability, offering a legal pathway for parents to address disagreements with schools regarding their child’s Individualized Education Program (IEP) or 504 Plan.

To help unpack the complexities of due process, we turn to Angela Buchanan Smagula, a seasoned education attorney and co-host of the podcast A Special Education Teacher, Administrator, and Lawyer Walk into a Bar….all you ever wanted to know about special education. With years of experience representing schools and navigating the intricate landscape of special education law, Angela brings a wealth of knowledge and practical insights. 

In this guide, we’ll explore the key elements of due process, its impact on special education administrators and families, and actionable strategies for fostering collaboration and avoiding conflicts. Whether you’re navigating your first hearing or looking to strengthen your district’s approach, this resource is here to support you.

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In the next months, each individual School District in Massachusetts will have to formally adopt requirements that confer a diploma. Listen in as the girls discuss the considerations inherent in this process and check out your local District's School Committee to find out more about what the local requirements in your town will be.

Join Abby, Robin and Angela while they review the DESE Guidance 2.0 (12/11/24)

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Join Robin while she listens to Angela review the Hingham decision:

DALE and JENNIFER HARRIS, as parents and next friend of their minor son, RNH vs. Hingham Schools (defendents named specifically, Town of Hingham and School Committee)

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Join Robin, Abby and Angela as they run through hot topics for 2025 and potential podcast topics. If you have an idea or a question, please reach out to them via email at astalpodcast@gmail.com

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In this Thanksgiving episode, Abby, Robin, and Angela take a moment to pause, reflect, and share what they’re most thankful for in their professional and personal lives.  

We are on a break until Jan. 2025- have a great holiday season! 

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After multiple requests, Robin and Abby begin the transition convo. It's too expansive to cover in 1 episode so this is just the beginning!

Do you want to be a transition specialist?

Autism goes to college

Intelligent Lives

MA DESE Secondary Transition

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Listen in as Robin, Angela and Abby discuss the recent  wildly inaccurate, incendiary and harmful statements from US Health and Human Services (HHS) Director, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. about people with Autism.

Click here to review the growing list of disability advocacy organizations that responded to his comments.

The Autism Society summary of group statement

Signatory Organizations:

Autistic Self Advocacy Network, Colin Killick, Executive Director

Autism Society of America, Christopher Banks, President and CEO

Autism Speaks, Keith Wargo, President and CEO

The Arc of the United States, Katy Neas, Chief Executive Officer

Autistic Women & Nonbinary Network, Sharon daVanport, Executive Director

Autistic People of Color Fund, Ly Xīnzhèn Zhǎngsūn Brown, Founding Executive Director

Autism Empowerment, Karen Krejcha, Co-Founder, Executive Director

Dan Marino Foundation, Mary Partin, CEO

Pivot Neurodiversity

Association for Autism and Neurodiversity

Organization for Autism Research

Els for Autism

Autistic Doctors International

Hussman Institute for Autism

Milestones Autism Resources

Easterseals, Inc.

Autistic Women’s Alliance

National Council on Severe Autism interview with NPR

Fact Checking RFK's statements - PBS article

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Question 2:  Elimination of MCAS as High School  Graduation Requirement passed in Massachusetts- so what does that mean for students? Listen to Robin, Abby and Angela as they review the DRAFT Q&A provided by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. 

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Ever wonder how to support students who are home or hospital bound? Join Abby, Robin and Angela as they discuss how to provide educational services to students who are confined to the home or a hospital setting.

MA DESE Q&A (603 CMR 28.03(3)(c)

Physician's Affirmation of Need for Temporary Home or Hospital Education for Medically Necessary Reasons

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Listen in while Angela, Robin and Abby discuss a complicated and emotionally challenging part of the special education legal landscape - when a Handbook/Code of Conduct infraction IS or IS NOT a manifestation of a student's disability.
 Legal reference: 34 CFR §§300.530-300-536

For the flowchart mentioned in the podcast click here.

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Join Robin, Abby and Angela as they review the importance of the role of the general education teacher in IEP meetings. 

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