The Intentional IEP Podcast

Stephanie DeLussey

Are you drowning in IEP paperwork and feeling overwhelmed by the special education process? The Intentional IEP Podcast is your go-to resource for teachers looking to navigate the complexities of Individualized Education Programs, write effective IEPs, and tackle all things related to special education. Join Stephanie, a dual-certified special education teacher, IEP coach, and author, as she transforms the overwhelming IEP process into manageable, actionable steps. Drawing from years of classroom experience, Stephanie understands the challenges you face—from writing legally compliant IEP goals to managing special education documentation while still finding time to actually teach. Every Monday, you can expect conversations like: Evidence-based IEP writing strategies that save you time Special education compliance guidelines made simple Effective IEP goal development techniques Data collection methods that work in real classrooms Practical special needs accommodations and modifications IEP best practices to invoke a more collaborative IEP process Breaking down IEP implementation The ins and outs of IEP meetings Whether you're a special education teacher, general education teacher collaborating on inclusive education, school psychologist, or educational administrator, The Intentional IEP Podcast will provide you with the support to help students with learning disabilities, autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, and other exceptional needs. Some weeks, Stephanie shares her expertise on best practices for IEP meetings, parent communication, and special education advocacy. Other weeks, expert guests join the conversation to provide diverse perspectives on disability services and educational interventions. Stop spending your evenings writing IEPs and start implementing a more intentional approach to special education. Together, we'll focus less on paperwork and more on what really matters—creating inclusive classrooms where all students can thrive. Because every student deserves an education plan that's as unique as they are. Let’s make IEPs more effective, more efficient, and way less stressful—together. Welcome to The Intentional IEP Podcast!

  1. 4 दिन पहले

    E24. What Qualifies a Child for an IEP?

    In this episode, Stephanie breaks down one of the biggest questions in special education: how does a student actually get an IEP? She explains what begins the process, what signs to look for, and what happens during and after the evaluation. Whether you are a teacher noticing ongoing challenges or a parent wondering if your child needs extra support, Stephanie walks through the path from concern to services in a clear and practical way. Here’s what Stephanie covers in today's episode: • Why a student might be referred for special education • What signs could indicate the need for an evaluation • What happens during the evaluation process • How eligibility for services is determined under IDEA • What happens if a student qualifies or if they do not Stephanie reminds listeners that special education is not about labeling but about support. If this episode brings clarity, share it with another teacher or parent who needs it. Listen in to learn how a student gets from concern to an IEP and why understanding this process matters. And don’t forget — you can get 50% off your first month of membership https://products.theintentionaliep.com/tii-membership-50off1stmonth-podcast/ For more information, check out more of Stephanie's resources: https://www.theintentionaliep.com/the-intentional-iep-book/ https://www.theintentionaliep.com/ https://www.facebook.com/theintentionaliep https://www.instagram.com/theintentionaliep

    19 मिनट
  2. 6 अक्टू॰

    E23. 3 Ways AI Can Help Special Education Teachers (Without Taking Your Job)

    AI is everywhere in education right now, and it’s easy to feel unsure about it. Today, we break down practical ways it can support your work without taking over your role. In this episode of The Intentional IEP Podcast, we look at three ways AI can help special education teachers — from IEP writing to lesson planning and daily systems — all while keeping your professional expertise and heart at the center. In this episode, you’ll hear: How to use AI to jumpstart IEP drafts while keeping your professional judgment at the centerSimple ways AI can streamline data collection, communication, and daily systemsHow AI can save you hours of planning time by helping you adapt lessons for multiple learnersThe truth behind the biggest AI myths keeping teachers stuck in fear AI won’t replace a good teacher. It can’t build relationships, notice a student’s subtle cues, or celebrate their small victories — that’s all you. But it can take the busywork off your plate so you can focus on what matters most: your students and your time. And don’t forget — you can get 50% off your first month of membership https://products.theintentionaliep.com/tii-membership-50off1stmonth-podcast/ For more information, check out more of Stephanie's resources: https://www.theintentionaliep.com/the-intentional-iep-book/ https://www.theintentionaliep.com/ https://www.facebook.com/theintentionaliep https://www.instagram.com/theintentionaliep

    15 मिनट
  3. 29 सित॰

    E22. 7 Misconceptions Teachers Have About Data Collection

    If you’ve ever thought, Am I collecting enough data? Am I even doing this right? Does this even count as progress monitoring? You’re not alone. Data collection is one of the biggest stress points for special education teachers, and much of that stress comes from common myths. In this episode, Stephanie tackles 5 of the biggest misconceptions about data collection and progress monitoring. From the pressure to take data every single day to the idea that spreadsheets are the only “real” way to track progress, you’ll get clarity, peace of mind, and practical fixes you can use right away. You’ll hear: Why daily data collection isn’t required (and what to do instead)How to make any format — even sticky notes — work for youSimple ways to collect data during routines without stopping instructionHow to monitor progress more consistently (and stress less at report time)What to do when a student isn’t meeting a goal — without scrapping the IEP By the end, you’ll see that data isn’t about perfection. It’s about using the information you have to guide your instruction and support your students — and small shifts can make a big difference. Check out the IEP Toolkit And don’t forget — you can get 50% off your first month of membership https://products.theintentionaliep.com/tii-membership-50off1stmonth-podcast/ For more information, check out more of Stephanie's resources: https://www.theintentionaliep.com/the-intentional-iep-book/ https://www.theintentionaliep.com/ https://www.facebook.com/theintentionaliep https://www.instagram.com/theintentionaliep

    18 मिनट
  4. 22 सित॰

    E21. Understanding the Different Types of IEP Meetings

    Not all IEP meetings are created equal — and knowing the differences can make the entire process smoother for you and for families. In this episode of The Intentional IEP Podcast, Stephanie walks through the most common types of IEP meetings, what to expect in each, and how to prepare so every conversation feels purposeful and productive. Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode: The most common IEP meeting types — annual reviews, eligibility, dismissals, amendments, and moreWhat actually happens at each meeting (and how to keep it simple when explaining it to parents)Quick prep tips that save time and make meetings run smootherHow to approach specialized meetings like manifestation determinations or transition planningThe pros and cons of in-person, virtual, and phone meetings — and how to make the most of each formatWhy intentional prep makes meetings feel less stressful and more collaborative for everyone involved By the end of this episode, you’ll feel ready to walk into any IEP meeting knowing what’s ahead and how to prepare. When you show up confident and organized, families feel supported and the whole team can focus on what matters most — creating the best plan for the student. And don’t forget — you can get 50% off your first month of membership https://products.theintentionaliep.com/tii-membership-50off1stmonth-podcast/ For more information, check out more of Stephanie's resources: https://www.theintentionaliep.com/the-intentional-iep-book/ https://www.theintentionaliep.com/ https://www.facebook.com/theintentionaliep https://www.instagram.com/theintentionaliep

    16 मिनट
  5. 15 सित॰

    E20. What Legally Has to Be in Every IEP

    If you’ve ever wondered what absolutely must be in every IEP you write — whether it’s your first or your 400th — this episode is for you. Stephanie breaks down the 8 legally required components of an IEP under IDEA, plus a few bonus considerations that often get overlooked but are just as important. Here’s what you’ll hear in this episode: Why present levels set the stage for everything elseHow to write measurable annual goals that keep you compliant and meaningfulWhat IDEA says about progress monitoring and parent communicationThe services, supports, and accommodations section — and why it must tie back to dataWhat to include in your LRE statement and why it’s one of the most litigated areas of an IEPThe logistics that make your plan actionable: start dates, frequency, location, and durationTransition planning requirements (and why waiting until age 16 is often too late)Placement decisions and the importance of considering general education firstPlus: extra legal requirements for students with specific needs By the end of this episode, you’ll know exactly what belongs in every IEP — no fluff, no “my district likes it this way,” just the federally required pieces that keep your paperwork compliant and your students supported. Make IEP writing easier with the IEP Toolkit And don’t forget — you can get 50% off your first month of membership https://products.theintentionaliep.com/tii-membership-50off1stmonth-podcast/ For more information, check out more of Stephanie's resources: https://www.theintentionaliep.com/the-intentional-iep-book/ https://www.theintentionaliep.com/ https://www.facebook.com/theintentionaliep https://www.instagram.com/theintentionaliep

    21 मिनट
  6. 8 सित॰

    E19. Changing Your Mindset About Challenging Student Behavior

    This episode might look a little different, but Stephanie is excited to give listeners a peek into one of the expert guest trainings from The Intentional IEP. Stephanie sits down with Sam to tackle changing your mindset about challenging student behaviors and explore practical strategies for managing behavior in the classroom. In this episode, you’ll hear about: How to shift your perspective on challenging student behaviors, moving from seeing them as disruptions to understanding the messages behind them.Ways to train and support other staff, including paraprofessionals, so everyone responds consistently and effectively.Strategies for communicating with staff to prevent re-triggering students and recognizing early signs before behaviors escalate.How to know when a situation requires additional support and when to ask for help.Methods for partnering with parents and administrators to ensure consistent, collaborative approaches.How to maintain classroom routines and protect learning for all students, even when one student’s behaviors are challenging.Actionable strategies and mindset shifts educators can apply immediately to create a calmer, more effective classroom environment. By the end of this conversation, you’ll walk away with practical strategies, mindset shifts you can actually use, and a clearer sense of how to respond thoughtfully and consistently in the moments that matter most. Connect with Sam: https://www.instagram.com/theedqueen Teachers Pay Teachers And don’t forget — you can get 50% off your first month of membership https://products.theintentionaliep.com/tii-membership-50off1stmonth-podcast/ For more information, check out more of Stephanie's resources: https://www.theintentionaliep.com/the-intentional-iep-book/ https://www.theintentionaliep.com/ https://www.facebook.com/theintentionaliep https://www.instagram.com/theintentionaliep

    33 मिनट
  7. 25 अग॰

    E17. 10+ Things Not to Say in an IEP Meeting

    We spend so much time preparing for IEP meetings—writing goals, gathering data, pulling everything together—yet when we finally sit down at the table, the words we use can make or break the entire conversation. There are a handful of phrases that can instantly shift the tone of a meeting, and not in a good way. Some of them come out of habit, others because we’re trying to save time or keep things moving. But here’s the thing: what we don’t say is just as important as what we do say. In this episode, Stephanie will: Share more than 10 phrases to avoid during an IEP meetingExplain why comments like “we only have an hour” or “there’s no way we can increase their minutes” can shut down collaborationOffer practical alternatives that keep conversations positive, strengths-focused, and student-centeredGive tips for navigating tricky moments with confidence and professionalismHelp you create smoother, more collaborative meetings where families feel heard. If you’ve ever left a meeting wishing it had gone more smoothly, this episode will give you practical swaps, helpful reminders, and the confidence to navigate IEP meetings without stress. Because when the team works well together, the student always wins. IEP Meeting Agendas: https://www.theintentionaliep.com/product/editable-meeting-amendment/ And don’t forget — you can get 50% off your first month of membership https://products.theintentionaliep.com/tii-membership-50off1stmonth-podcast/ For more information, check out more of Stephanie's resources: https://www.theintentionaliep.com/the-intentional-iep-book/ https://www.theintentionaliep.com/ https://www.facebook.com/theintentionaliep https://www.instagram.com/theintentionaliep

    22 मिनट

ट्रेलर

परिचय

Are you drowning in IEP paperwork and feeling overwhelmed by the special education process? The Intentional IEP Podcast is your go-to resource for teachers looking to navigate the complexities of Individualized Education Programs, write effective IEPs, and tackle all things related to special education. Join Stephanie, a dual-certified special education teacher, IEP coach, and author, as she transforms the overwhelming IEP process into manageable, actionable steps. Drawing from years of classroom experience, Stephanie understands the challenges you face—from writing legally compliant IEP goals to managing special education documentation while still finding time to actually teach. Every Monday, you can expect conversations like: Evidence-based IEP writing strategies that save you time Special education compliance guidelines made simple Effective IEP goal development techniques Data collection methods that work in real classrooms Practical special needs accommodations and modifications IEP best practices to invoke a more collaborative IEP process Breaking down IEP implementation The ins and outs of IEP meetings Whether you're a special education teacher, general education teacher collaborating on inclusive education, school psychologist, or educational administrator, The Intentional IEP Podcast will provide you with the support to help students with learning disabilities, autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, and other exceptional needs. Some weeks, Stephanie shares her expertise on best practices for IEP meetings, parent communication, and special education advocacy. Other weeks, expert guests join the conversation to provide diverse perspectives on disability services and educational interventions. Stop spending your evenings writing IEPs and start implementing a more intentional approach to special education. Together, we'll focus less on paperwork and more on what really matters—creating inclusive classrooms where all students can thrive. Because every student deserves an education plan that's as unique as they are. Let’s make IEPs more effective, more efficient, and way less stressful—together. Welcome to The Intentional IEP Podcast!

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