Ask Us Anything: Part 9: Scheduling Tips & Paras Not Following Their Schedule

Welcome back, special educators! Are you feeling the pressure of scheduling chaos as the school year kicks off? Or perhaps you're facing challenges with paraprofessionals not following their schedules? We've got you covered in this Ask Us Anything episode! 

In this episode, my co-host, Paul Hubbard, and I dive into two common back-to-school struggles:

1. Mastering the Art of Scheduling in Special Education: We discuss practical tips and strategies to create a workable schedule for your students, ensuring you're meeting all their Individualized Education Program (IEP) minutes while collaborating effectively with general education teachers and administrators. We'll also explore the importance of being proactive, using digital tools, and involving your entire team in the process.
2. Handling Paraprofessionals Who Don’t Follow Their Schedules: Learn how to communicate effectively with your paraprofessionals, set clear expectations from the start, and address any issues that arise. We'll share insights on leadership, time management strategies, and the importance of involving your paras in the planning process to ensure a smooth and successful school year.

Whether you're a seasoned veteran or new to the field, this episode offers valuable advice to help you survive and thrive in the ever-challenging world of special education. Tune in to learn how to handle these back-to-school curveballs and set your year up for success!

Highlights:

• [2:06] The importance of digging into IEPs and collaborating with administrators.
• [4:33] Why you can't rely solely on IEP summaries and the significance of double-checking documentation.
• [11:48] How AI can be a useful tool in drafting your schedule.
• [16:47] Tips for involving your entire team in the scheduling process.
• [17:42] Addressing paraprofessional challenges with effective communication and leadership.
• [24:31] The role of documentation and when to involve your administration in para issues.

Resources Mentioned:

• How to Create an Expectation List for Paraprofessionals 

Join the Conversation: Do you have a question you'd like us to answer in our next Ask Us Anything episode? Drop us a message on social media or send us an email. We’d love to hear from you!

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