Be The Exception In Special Education

Dawn Ellis
  • 4.7 (23)
  • EDUCATION
  • UPDATED WEEKLY
Be The Exception In Special Education

How do I become a special education teacher? How do I get everything with data collection done? Where do I start in mastering something? How do I become exceptional at one thing? How do I perfect a special education classroom? Welcome to Be The Exception Podcast where we will answer all these questions and so many more. Each episode, host Dawn Ellis will bring you productivity tips, mindset motivation, special education strategies, education hacks, and inspirational stories that can help you become the exceptional human you were meant to be. We all have something that comes naturally to us that others would love to know more about. So let’s start the conversation and learn from others, so we can grow together.

  1. 4D AGO

    255.The Secret to Making Visual Supports Work for Every Student

    Not all visual supports work the same way for every student. Customization is key to ensuring students benefit from visual schedules, cue cards, and behavior charts. In today’s episode, we’ll explore why generic visuals don’t always work, how to modify them for different disabilities, and the best tools for creating personalized supports. Plus, I’ll give you a free customizable visual schedule template to help you get started today! What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✅ Why one-size-fits-all visuals aren’t effective for all students. ✅ How to modify visuals for nonverbal students, autism, ADHD, and anxiety. ✅ The best software and tools for creating personalized visual supports. ✅ How to start using custom visuals today with step-by-step guidance. Links and Resources Visual Supports Toolkit FREE Training on Using Visual Supports Effectively Exceptional Collective   Connect with Dawn   Find me on IG Find me on Tik Tok Etsy Shop TpT Store Subscribe Are you subscribed to my podcast? Trust me, you definitely want to do that so you don’t miss a thing! Click here to subscribe in iTunes! Leave a Review If you are loving the podcast, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other teachers find my podcast and I love hearing what you think about the podcast as well. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what part of the podcast you found to be the most helpful!

    25 sec

  2. MAR 6

    254. How to Use Visual Supports to Reduce Classroom Stress and Support Student Success

    Struggling with student engagement, transitions, or behavior in your special education classroom? Visual supports could be the game-changer you need! In today’s episode, we’ll break down why visuals are essential, the different types of visual supports, and how you can start using them today. Plus, I’ll share a real-life story of a student whose entire school experience improved thanks to a visual schedule and reinforcement board. 👉 Don’t forget to subscribe & leave a review!   What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✅ Why students struggle with verbal instructions and how visuals help. ✅ The 4 most effective types of visual supports and how to use them. ✅ A real-life success story of a student who thrived with visuals. ✅ Quick tips for getting started with visual supports in your classroom today. Links and Resources Visual Supports Toolkit FREE Training on Using Visual Supports Effectively Exceptional Collective   Connect with Dawn   Find me on IG Find me on Tik Tok Etsy Shop TpT Store Subscribe Are you subscribed to my podcast? Trust me, you definitely want to do that so you don’t miss a thing! Click here to subscribe in iTunes! Leave a Review If you are loving the podcast, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other teachers find my podcast and I love hearing what you think about the podcast as well. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what part of the podcast you found to be the most helpful!

    15 min

  3. FEB 27

    253.How to Use Behavior Data to Drive Interventions

    In this episode of Be The Exception in Special Education, Dawn Ellis dives deep into the often intimidating world of behavior data. She explains why it’s so critical, how to collect it, and most importantly, how to use it to inform effective interventions. If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed by student behavior, this episode will provide the clarity and tools you need to turn things around in your classroom.   What You’ll Learn in This Episode: How to collect behavior data with simple tools like frequency charts and behavior logs How to analyze behavior data to identify patterns and triggers Effective interventions you can implement based on the data you collect Why behavior data is essential to track for lasting behavioral change Links and Resources Resource for Tracking Behavior Data How to Use Behavior Data to Drive Interventions in Special Ed Blog Post SEL Training   Connect with Dawn   Find me on IG Find me on Tik Tok Etsy Shop TpT Store Subscribe Are you subscribed to my podcast? Trust me, you definitely want to do that so you don’t miss a thing! Click here to subscribe in iTunes! Leave a Review If you are loving the podcast, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other teachers find my podcast and I love hearing what you think about the podcast as well. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what part of the podcast you found to be the most helpful!

    10 min

  4. FEB 20

    252.Teaching Emotional Awareness: Simple SEL Activities for Special Ed

    In this episode of Be The Exception in Special Education, Dawn Ellis shares simple and effective SEL (Social-Emotional Learning) activities that every special education teacher can implement to help students build emotional awareness. These activities not only help students regulate their emotions but also contribute to their social and academic success.   What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why emotional awareness is essential in the special education classroom How Emotion Charades can help students recognize and express emotions The power of Feelings Check-Ins to support emotional regulation How to use Breathing Exercises to calm overwhelmed students Tips for integrating emotional awareness into daily routines Links and Resources SEL Bundle  Building on SEL Awareness Training SEL Activities for Emotional Awareness Blog   Connect with Dawn   Find me on IG Find me on Tik Tok Etsy Shop TpT Store Subscribe Are you subscribed to my podcast? Trust me, you definitely want to do that so you don’t miss a thing! Click here to subscribe in iTunes! Leave a Review If you are loving the podcast, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other teachers find my podcast and I love hearing what you think about the podcast as well. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what part of the podcast you found to be the most helpful!

    10 min

  5. FEB 13

    251.Positive Behavior Supports That Actually Work

    In today’s episode of Be The Exception in Special Education, we’re diving into one of the most critical areas of teaching—Positive Behavior Supports (PBS). As special education teachers, we know that behavior challenges can sometimes feel like mountains to climb. But what if I told you there are strategies that can help you turn things around, even on the toughest days? In this episode, I’ll share proven, real-world strategies for positive behavior supports that will not only help you manage behavior but also create an environment where your students can thrive.   What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why Positive Behavior Supports (PBS) are crucial for a successful classroom How to use token economies to reinforce positive behavior The magic of visual supports in setting clear expectations The power of consistent routines in creating stability and reducing stress Links and Resources February Bundle of Resources Free Training for Positive Behavior Supports   Connect with Dawn   Find me on IG Find me on Tik Tok Etsy Shop TpT Store Subscribe Are you subscribed to my podcast? Trust me, you definitely want to do that so you don’t miss a thing! Click here to subscribe in iTunes! Leave a Review If you are loving the podcast, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other teachers find my podcast and I love hearing what you think about the podcast as well. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what part of the podcast you found to be the most helpful!

    10 min

  6. FEB 6

    250. Consistency Is Key: Behavior Management Tips That Will Change Your Special Education Classroom

    In this episode of Be The Exception in Special Education, I chat with Abby from Mrs. Moe’s Modifications about behavior management strategies that actually work in special education classrooms. Abby shares her tried-and-tested techniques, including how to prioritize behavior interventions, the most overlooked factor in addressing challenging behaviors, and how to build lasting relationships with your students. We also talk about the importance of consistency, family involvement, and practical tools to track student behavior and progress.   What You’ll Learn in This Episode: How to prioritize behavior management strategies in your classroom Why relationship-building is crucial in managing difficult behaviors Tips for maintaining consistency with multiple students The key components of an effective behavior plan Tools and resources that help track behavior patterns and monitor progress Links and Resources ABC Behavior tracker-Scatterplot Trauma Informed Strategies Blog Post  10 Strategies for Smoother Transitions Blog Post  Connect with Abby   Abby’s Website Abby’s Instagram   Connect with Dawn   Find me on IG Find me on Tik Tok Etsy Shop TpT Store Subscribe Are you subscribed to my podcast? Trust me, you definitely want to do that so you don’t miss a thing! Click here to subscribe in iTunes! Leave a Review If you are loving the podcast, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other teachers find my podcast and I love hearing what you think about the podcast as well. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what part of the podcast you found to be the most helpful!

    34 min

  7. JAN 30

    249.Mastering IEP Service Pages + Fun Winter Activities for Special Education Teachers

    This week, we’re tackling two key topics: how to write effective and compliant IEP service pages, and creative ways to bring winter-themed learning into your special education classroom. From tips on avoiding common IEP mistakes to fun Groundhog Day activities, this episode is packed with tools and strategies to support you and your students this season. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: How to write clear and actionable services pages in IEPs. Common mistakes to avoid when detailing services. Engaging winter activities to support IEP goals. Creative ways to celebrate Groundhog Day in the classroom.   Links and Resources The Exceptional Collective Membership Winter Activities Bundle Groundhog Day Blog Post   Connect with Dawn   Find me on IG Find me on Tik Tok Etsy Shop TpT Store Subscribe Are you subscribed to my podcast? Trust me, you definitely want to do that so you don’t miss a thing! Click here to subscribe in iTunes! Leave a Review If you are loving the podcast, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other teachers find my podcast and I love hearing what you think about the podcast as well. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what part of the podcast you found to be the most helpful!

    15 min

  8. JAN 23

    248.IEP Writing Mastery: Simplify the Process with Templates That Work

    If IEP writing feels like an uphill battle, this episode is here to help. We’re breaking down how to use easy-to-follow templates to save time, stay organized, and write impactful IEPs for your students. Tune in to learn practical tips, discover helpful tools, and feel more confident heading into your next IEP meeting.   What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why templates are a game-changer for IEP writing. Key features of effective IEP templates. Step-by-step tips for using templates to simplify the process. Tools and resources to make your IEP season stress-free. Links and Resources The Exceptional Collective Membership Winter Activities Bundle   Connect with Dawn   Find me on IG Find me on Tik Tok Etsy Shop TpT Store Subscribe Are you subscribed to my podcast? Trust me, you definitely want to do that so you don’t miss a thing! Click here to subscribe in iTunes! Leave a Review If you are loving the podcast, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other teachers find my podcast and I love hearing what you think about the podcast as well. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what part of the podcast you found to be the most helpful!

    12 min
See All (254)

4.7
out of 5
23 Ratings

About

How do I become a special education teacher? How do I get everything with data collection done? Where do I start in mastering something? How do I become exceptional at one thing? How do I perfect a special education classroom? Welcome to Be The Exception Podcast where we will answer all these questions and so many more. Each episode, host Dawn Ellis will bring you productivity tips, mindset motivation, special education strategies, education hacks, and inspirational stories that can help you become the exceptional human you were meant to be. We all have something that comes naturally to us that others would love to know more about. So let’s start the conversation and learn from others, so we can grow together.

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