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Description: The standard for making decisions about a student with disabilities follows the same continuum from least to most segregated settings and we use a clear model for ensuring that each decision is based on the needs and capabilities of the student. Practices: Staffing and scheduling decisions are based solely on the needs of individual students. Decisions are not made on the basis of labels, places or available services or space. Our school uses an objective, student-centered process for...
Description: Many educators believe that inclusive practices are more costly than traditional services offered in ‘pull-out’ settings. Actually, when staffing and other costs are determined on the basis of student needs, staffing requirements typically decrease. Practices: During interviews for new faculty, the expectation of inclusive practices by all teachers and staff is clearly stated. Practices are in place to recruit and retain highly qualified educators who are skilled in implementing effective...
Description: Effective collaboration among general and special educators, related service personnel, and parents represents the hallmark of inclusive schools. Time and support must be provided to increase the success of inclusion. Practices: Special education teachers are members of grade level or department teams and share planning times, professional development, and responsibility for all students. Common planning time is provided to support quality collaboration. General and special education co-teachers...
Description: In truly inclusive schools, the needs of each student determine the setting in which he or she is educated. While there is a strong emphasis on providing the supports needed to enable each student to be successful in the general education classroom, if all options have been explored and services need to be provided outside of the general education classroom for part or all of the day, those services must meet quality standards. Practices: Individual decisions about specialized support reflect...
Description: While physical and academic inclusion are critical for the success of students with disabilities, each school must also focus on providing social inclusion opportunities with same-age peers. This addresses the needs of the ‘whole child’ and has a significant impact on well-being, academic achievement, and post-school success. Practices: Regular and frequent opportunities are planned and provided for adults and youth to work together to solve problems and learn together. School staff provide...
Description: As families, educators and community members recognize the importance of inclusive practices, new and authentic partnerships must be formed. Practices: Family members are included as active members of team making decisions about their child. School/district routinely builds relationships between families and schools through two-way communication, offcampus outreach, non-threatening fun activities, and a positive school climate. Students encourage family involvement through active participation...
Description: The following practices are essential to the success of inclusive practices, closing the achievement gap and creating a sharp focus on the roles and responsibilities of all stakeholders. Planning for sustainability should be incorporated into the earliest stages of planning and implementation. Practices: Inclusive education is recognized as a district-wide priority, not the priority of a single department. Leadership sessions are conducted periodically with key personnel to ensure the vocabulary...
Description: Beginning Reading - The National Center for Improving Literacy has gathered its best resources for beginning reading into one convenient link. Topics include: Alphabetuc Principle & Phonics Coaching Steps for Families Engaging Children: Interactive Literacy Activities for Preschool and Kindergarten Fluency with Text And much more!
Date(s):
10/29/2025, 11/19/2025, 1/28/2026, 3/18/2026
Description: Calling ALL Paraprofessionals in Virginia Public Schools! Looking for a space to connect, learn, and grow professionally? Now you have one! You’re the essential “boots on the ground” who help schools run smoothly and support students and staff every day—and we see you! VCU-RRTC’s Autism Center for Education (ACE) is launching a NEW online community just for YOU! There are 4 sessions designed to empower paraprofessionals who support teachers working...
Description: The mission of NCIL is to increase access to, and use of, evidence-based approaches to screen, identify, and teach students with literacy-related disabilities, including dyslexia. This website includes resources for Parents & Families, Schools & Districts and State Agencies.
Description: Check out the AAC Training Planning Tree & AAC Training FAQs Did you know? IEP Teams must consider the need for Assistive Technology (AT) devices and services with the development of each IEP. AT services include any support provided to help a child with a disability to choose, obtain, or use an assistive technology device effectively. These services incorporate training or technical assistance for professionals (e.g., educators, related service providers, rehabilitation...
Description: Check out PEATC's new Resource Document: Understanding Functional Behavioral Assessments (FBA) -When behavior gets in the way of learning, it’s not about blame, it’s about understanding. PEATC’s new FBA Resource Document explains how a Functional Behavioral Assessment can help uncover the “why” behind your child’s behavior and lead to more effective, compassionate support at school. This easy-to-read resource walks families through when an FBA is needed, what...
Description: Check out PEATC's Understanding the Parts of the IEP Fact Sheet - The IEP is one of the most important tools in your child’s special education journey — but it can also be one of the most confusing. Our new fact sheet, “Understanding the Parts of the Individualized Education Program (IEP),” breaks it all down in plain language just for families. From present levels and goals to services, accommodations, and transition planning, this guide helps you understand...
Description: Check out the Resource Menu: Supporting Early Childhood Educators in Inclusive Environments - A body of research demonstrates that high-quality inclusion benefits children, families, and professionals. Research also shows that many early childhood educators do not feel adequately prepared to adapt their teaching to meet the needs of children with IEPs in their care. In an effort to support teachers like you who serve young children with and without disabilities, this document offers...
Description: When Parents and Schools Disagree: We’ve Got You Covered - Checkout the Dispute Resolution GuideDisagreements about special education services can be confusing and emotional—but you don’t have to navigate them alone. PEATC’s NEW Dispute Resolution Guide is here to help Virginia families understand your options when things aren’t going as they should. Whether you’re curious about Facilitated IEPs, Mediation, Written State...
Description: Check out the CEC's HLP #7 video - This video provides a definition, background, and rationale for high-leverage practice (HLP) 7 and demonstrates three key components of this HLP through video exemplars from general and special education teachers. The three key components highlighted in this video are the importance of defining and teaching classroom expectations and rules, using a continuum of strategies to acknowledge appropriate behavior with high frequency, and optimizing instructional...
Description: Check out the Beginning of the Year Survey for Families - Early childhood best practices are also trauma-informed practices. As an early childhood educator you are well positioned to provide the responsive, caring, and predictable environments and relationships that research has proven can mitigate stress and trauma. By administering a “Beginning of Questionnaire for Families'' you are centering family, community, and socialemotional wellness at the start of school. Incorporating what you...
Description: Visit Best Messaging Apps and Websites for Students, Teachers, and Parents - These apps and websites for texting, messaging, and communication make it easier for teachers to send out assignments, reminders, and progress reports and communicate with parents and students about conferences, field trips, and volunteer opportunities. This list will help you find a tool to keep your communication consistent, reach parents on platforms they're already using, and, in some cases, give students the...
Description: Visit the PBIS resource: Creating Effective Classroom Environments Plan Template -Educators can download this template and create their own plan to implement PBIS in their classroom. The template includes opportunity to develop a classroom matrix, create lesson plans to teach expected behavior, script prompts or reminders for desired behavior, and plan praise and corrections.
Description: Checkout Effective Classroom Systems by VTSS - Effective Classroom Systems is designed for division and school leadership to develop a plan for the data collection, professional learning and coaching needed at the division and school level in order to promote a sustained focus on the use of effective classroom practices. Classroom practices are the strategies essential to effective instruction and include: arranging the physical environment, active supervision, classroom expectations,...
Description: Check out Lesson Plan: Co-creating Classroom Expecations with Students (PBIS) - The purpose of this lesson is to partner with elementary students to create a classroom matrix together, based on existing schoolwide expectations.
Description: Check out PEATC's new resource, Tips for Transition to Middle School for Students with Disabilities - that offers practical steps Virginia families can take now to prepare their child for success. From reviewing IEPs to building self-advocacy skills and connecting with staff, this fact sheet walks you through what matters most during this key transition. Let’s help our kids move forward with confidence!
Date(s):
10/16/2025 11:00 AM ET, 11/20/2025 11:00 AM ET, 1/15/2026 11:00 AM ET, 2/19/2026 11:00 AM ET, 4/16/2026 11:00 AM ET
Description: New this Year! The VDOE will host ECSE Office Hours for ECSE administrators, special education directors or those who would like to increase knowledge and ask questions on content related to ECSE. Office Hours will be held the third Thursday of the month from 11:00-12:00. Each month, a specific topic will be discussed. There will be a short introduction of the topic followed by the opportunity for you to ask questions. Registration is not required. Simply use the Join the meeting link to...
Description: Download the Importance of Reviewing Your Childs School Records Factsheet - Did you know that regularly reviewing your child’s school records is one of the most powerful steps you can take as a parent? These records—like evaluations, IEPs, progress updates, and behavior reports—tell the story of your child’s education. They help you stay informed, advocate effectively, and make sure your child is getting the services and support they’re entitled to. Mistakes happen,...
Description: Want to feel confident teaching and including students with autism in your classroom? The Autism Center for Education offers FREE short-term coaching, equipping educational teams with practical strategies and techniques to better support autistic learners in any classroom environment. Schedule now to get ready for the 2025-2026 school year at: vcuautismcenter.org/requests Testimonials: “The real time hands on coaching and skills I could immediately implement were the most useful and the...
Description: Let’s Hear from the Expert—Your Child!Students with disabilities have unique strengths, preferences, and goals, and they deserve a voice in their IEPs. When students share what they’re good at, what they need help with, and what they want for their future, their IEPs become more meaningful and focused. Download PEATC’s easy-to-use Student IEP Input Form and help your child become an active part of their IEP team today!"Let’s build...
Description: Check out PEATC's new resource to learn more: PEATC’s Special Factors in the IEP Guide - When your child’s IEP is being created or updated, the IEP team must think about certain important areas that could affect your child’s learning and school experience. These are called Special Factors, and they help make sure your child gets the right support to succeed in school. The team must consider behavior that makes it hard for your child or others to learn, your...
Description: Check out GMU TTAC's Mobile Apps! Helen A. Kellar Institute faculty and staff embrace new technologies as they emerge and make every effort to make content accessible across a range of different formats and devices. Our app development team is in the process of launching several new apps for people with disabilities, service providers and professionals working in the field of special education. The links contain a list of our apps that are currently available on Apple AppStore and...
Description: Enroll in the VATTS Virtual Virginia Course - The AT Network has developed a short professional learning course on Virtual Virginia that provides an overview of the new Virginia Assistive Technology, Tools, and Strategies (VATTS): Consideration Guide and Resources. IEP team members can access this course at any time and complete the modules at their own pace. A certificate of completion can be earned by those that finish the course requirements.
Description: Check out PEATC's SAT Accommodations for Students with Disabilities Factsheet - If your child has a documented disability and plans to take the SAT, they may qualify for testing accommodations like extra time, breaks, or assistive technology. These supports help ensure that students with disabilities have equal access to college admissions tests. The process can take up to 7 weeks, so it’s important to start early.PEATC’s new fact sheet breaks down who qualifies, how...
Description: Virginia’s new guidance on the Virginia Literacy Act (VLA) now includes students in grades 4–8. If your child scores basic or below basic on the reading SOL, they will be screened using a new tool called the VALLSS screener and may receive a Student Reading Plan (SRP) to guide reading interventions. But here’s what’s important for families of children with IEPs: this screening data can inform your child’s current IEP, guide literacy goals, and be used as evidence...
Description: The Virginia Assistive Technology, Tools, and Strategies (VATTS) Resources will guide the IEP team through the consideration and documentation process. These resources replace the previous versions of the AT Consideration and Resource Guide. VATTS: Consideration and Assessment Guidance Document (PDF) - Guidance for school divisions in the consideration and assessment of AT, including planning and implementing those services for students with disabilities. VATTS: Consideration...
Description: Assistive Technology and Your Child’s IEP Check out the PEATC Assistive Technology and Your Child's IEP Factsheet - this factsheet helps families learn what AT is, when it should be discussed, and what schools are required to provide. From pencil grips to communication devices and apps, AT can make a big difference in your child’s success. Read more in our factsheet so you can discuss it at your next IEP meeting!
Description: The CTI at VCU and TTAC at GMU collaborated to develop a Transition Taxonomy 2.0 + High Leverage Practice (HLP) resource that shares professional learning opportunities, evidence-based resources, and teacher and family ready materials in one place! Based on NTACT-C (2016) Transition Taxonomy’s five areas of student focused planning, student development, interagency collaboration, family collaboration, and program development, transition professionals and teachers can easily locate relevant...
Description: Ever wonder what those test scores really mean? Understanding the bell curve can help you better interpret your child’s evaluations and know how they compare to peers—without letting a number define their potential. Knowing where your child falls on the curve can help you advocate for the right support and track meaningful progress. Check out the PEATC Bell Curve Fact Sheet to learn how to use this tool to inform goals and support your child’s unique...
Description: Check out Angela Watson's Truth for Teachers Podcast - A bi-weekly audio podcast that provides encouragement and inspiration for teachers. Ranks in the top three K-12 podcasts in the world. -The Cornerstone for Teachers
Description: Check out the NASP's The Care of the Caregiver: Guidelines for Administrators and Crisis Teams - Parents, teachers, and other caregivers play a critical role in helping children cope with crises. Following a crisis, teachers are often required to provide additional support to the students in their classes. While teachers provide daily care and support for their students, after a tragedy these demands may go well beyond their training or expertise. In addition, crisis responders and mental...
Description: Check out The Educator's Room Presents: The Teacher Self-Care Podcast on Anchor by Spotify- The real conversation teachers need to her about teacher self-care. Join us as Franchesca interviews teachers from around the globe to discuss teacher mental health and how we can change schools and policies.
Description: Check out the National Wellness Alliance Resources - Throughout time and across cultures, the term “wellness” has been defined and applied in many ways. The Wellness Alliance encapsulates these interpretations by acknowledging that: Wellness is a conscious, self-directed, and evolving process of achieving one’s full potential. Wellness encompasses lifestyle, mental and spiritual well-being, and the environment. Wellness is positive, affirming, and contributes to living a long...
Description: Check out - 4 Teachers Share How to Recharge at the End of Year for these ideas from fellow teachers to maximize your relaxation time.
Description: Check out Resources for Educator Wellness - Educator and teacher self-care can be challenging, but embracing a holistic health and wellness plan can improve your physical, mental, emotional, and social well-being both inside and outside of school. This reflective journal provides the ideas and guidance you need to support you on your wellness journey. Free Reproducible Resources: A Solutions Framework Reflection and Goal Setting Protocol Self-Evaluation Rubric
Description: Coachng as Professional Learning: Guidelines for Implementing Effective Coaching Systems is a synthesis of research on coaching in educational settings. The contents include information and resources that support methods for implementing and sustaining effective coaching systems and practices in a variety of educational contexts, as well as Guiding Questions for Building and Strengthening Effective Coaching Systems.
Description: The Effective Coaching of Teachers: Fiedelity Worksheet and Rubric can be used to collect and score information about the fidelity of coaching so that this information can be used by coaches and other educators to continuously improve upon how coaching occurs. Fidelity in coaching should rely continuously upon the effective practices of observation, modeling, delivery of performance feedback, and use of alliance-building strategies. Furthermore, coaching should occur with sufficient...
Description: The purpose of this document, Coaching within Tiered Support Models is to provide content-specific examples of how to structure educator-level and/or systems-level coaching as a mechanism to ensure ongoing professional learning to support tiered intervention. This document provides examples of coaching supports, models, and functions within the context of tiered intervention (e.g., RtI, PBIS, MTSS) and data-based decision making (e.g., data-based individualization [DBI]) for educators who...
Description: The purpose of this brief, Muli-Tiered Systems of Supports (MTSS) in the classroom is to help educators familiar with PBIS organize classroom supports for preventing, teaching, and responding to students’ social, emotional, and behavioral (SEB) needs across the continuum.
Description: This Practice Guide, Enhancing Team Functioning in Schools' Multi-Tiered Systems of Support can be used by multidisciplinary teams within a multi-tiered system of support as a resource for overcoming challenges and setting up teams for success. The five effective teaming elements are described, as well as how to structure teams to enhance functioning and outcomes within schools.
Description: The PBIS Implementation Blueprint provides guidance for implementers interested in (a) exploring and getting ready to implement PBIS, (b) getting started with PBIS, and/or (c) getting better at enhancing, sustaining, and/or scaling (expanding) their efforts in educational settings.
Description: The purpose of the Intensive Intervention Meeting Checklist is for intensive intervention teams or instructional coaches can use these checklists to monitor implementation of the intensive intervention meetings (before, during, and after meetings).
Description: Data-Based Decision Making is the use of screening, progress monitoring, and other forms of data to make decisions about instruction, movement within the multi-level prevention system, intensification of instruction and supports, allocation of resources, and identification of students with disabilities (in accordance with state law). Data-based decision making occurs at all levels of MTSS implementation, from individual students to the district level. Teams use implementation data to...
Description: School Infrastructure and Support Mechanisms include the knowledge, resources, and organizational structures necessary to operationalize and implement all of the components of MTSS in a unified system to meet the identified implementation and outcome. This resource summarizes the infrastructure and support mechanisms outlined in Section 5 of the MTSS Fidelity of Implementation Rubric as necessary for successful MTSS implementation.