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. 3d ago

    E60. Standards-Aligned IEP Goals (Without Doing It Wrong)

    Writing standards-aligned IEP goals can feel overwhelming, especially when you've been told to align goals to grade-level standards without being shown what that actually looks like in practice. In this episode, we're breaking down a simple framework for aligning IEP goals to state standards while keeping them individualized and appropriate for each student's needs. Stephanie covers: • Why standards-aligned does not mean copying and pasting a state standard into an IEP goal • How to use baseline data, grade-level standards, and skill gaps to identify the next appropriate step for a student • How prerequisite skills can help you create meaningful goals that move students toward grade-level expectations If you've ever wondered how to balance standards, data, and individual student needs, this episode will help you write goals that are aligned, purposeful, and focused on real progress. Not a member? Join Today — 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

    13 min

  2. Jun 15

    E59. From Panic to Prepared: Your Step-by-Step System for Getting Ready for an IEP Meeting

    Do you ever look at your calendar and realize an IEP meeting is coming up much faster than expected? In this episode, we're breaking down a step-by-step system for preparing for IEP meetings without the last-minute stress and scrambling. From scheduling the meeting and gathering team input to writing present levels, developing goals, and preparing families, you'll learn how to create a process that keeps you organized and confident every step of the way. If you're tired of feeling rushed before every IEP meeting, this episode will help you create a system that saves time, reduces stress, and leads to better outcomes for students. Not a member? Join Today — 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 min

  3. Jun 8

    E58. Stop the Chaos: Systems for Communicating with Multiple Paraprofessionals

    In this episode, Stephanie is talking about simple systems that help special education teachers communicate more effectively with paraprofessionals, reduce confusion, and create stronger team collaboration throughout the school day. She shares: • Why communication systems matter more than constant conversations • Ways to create visual communication systems that reduce questions and increase independence • Strategies for building a culture of open communication and feedback Whether you're working with one para or managing a larger team, these practical strategies can help improve communication, strengthen teamwork, and create a more organized classroom environment. Not a member? Join Today — 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 min

  4. Jun 5

    Special Education Teachers: This Is for You

    Summer is the best time to get ahead before the school year starts. That’s why we created the Summer PD Series. This is practical professional development for special education teachers who want strategies they can use right away. With over 50+ trainings, you’ll get expert-led sessions focused on IEPs, behavior, data collection, collaboration, and student success. Everything is built to help you walk into the new school year prepared, confident, and ready. Join the Summer PD Series today. https://www.theintentionaliep.com/summer-pd-series/

    1 min

  5. Jun 1

    E57. How to Explain Lack of Progress to Parents (Without Panic)

    Talking to parents about a lack of progress is one of the most challenging parts of being a special education teacher. When you've been working hard, collecting data, and providing support, it can be difficult to explain that a student isn't growing as expected. In this episode, Stephanie shares how to approach these conversations with confidence, use data effectively, and collaborate with families to determine the best next steps. Stephanie covers: What progress really means within an IEPWhy consistent progress monitoring mattersHow to analyze data before talking with parentsWays to explain lack of progress clearly and honestly Lack of progress doesn't mean anyone has failed. It provides valuable information that helps the IEP team make informed decisions and better support the student. This episode will help you navigate these difficult conversations with clarity, professionalism, and a focus on problem-solving. Not a member? Join Today — 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 min

  6. May 25

    E56. The Top 5 Self-Reflection Questions Teachers Should Ask at the End of the Year

    The school year is over. The desks are empty, the paperwork is done, and for the first time in a long time… there’s space to pause. Not the kind tied to compliance checklists, evaluation goals, or guilt. Real reflection. The kind that helps you figure out what actually worked this year, what left you overwhelmed, and what needs to change so next year feels lighter. If you’re a special educator carrying the weight of IEPs, behavior support, data collection, meetings, communication, and constant problem solving, this episode will help you slow down and look at the bigger picture before jumping into another school year. Inside this conversation, Stephanie walks through five powerful reflection questions to help you identify the systems that supported you, the patterns that drained you, and the kind of teacher you want to become moving forward. This episode is your reminder that you don’t have to carry the same stress, chaos, or burnout into another year. Reflection gives you the opportunity to rebuild with intention. Not a member? Join Today — 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

    10 min

  7. May 18

    E55. 3 Benefits of Sending a Draft IEP Home Before the Meeting

    IEP meetings can quickly become overwhelming when families are seeing everything for the first time at the table. In this episode, Stephanie breaks down why draft IEPs are one of the most effective tools for creating smoother meetings, stronger collaboration, and more meaningful parent participation. In this episode, Stephanie: • Explains what a draft IEP actually is and why it should be used as a conversation starter, not a final decision • Teaches the difference between collaboration and predetermination under IDEA • Gives simple tips for implementing draft IEPs in a way that supports both families and school teams Draft IEPs may seem like a small step, but they can completely change the tone and effectiveness of the IEP process. Stephanie reminds listeners that when families are given time to review, reflect, and participate before the meeting, collaboration becomes stronger and student support becomes more intentional. Not a member? Join Today — 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

    12 min

  8. May 11

    E54. Fading Prompts + the Prompt Hierarchy: What Every Special Ed Teacher Needs to Know

    If a student can only complete a task when an adult steps in, are we teaching the skill… or teaching dependence? In this episode, Stephanie is unpacking the prompt hierarchy, prompt dependency, and what it actually looks like to fade support in a way that builds real student independence. With practical examples and easy-to-apply strategies, this episode will have you rethinking the way prompting shows up in your classroom. In this episode, Stephanie: • Breaks down the different levels of the prompt hierarchy and what they look like in real classrooms • Shares simple ways to start fading prompts without overwhelming students • Explains how teams can work together to reduce prompt dependency and build student independence over time If you’ve ever had a student who relies heavily on adult support, this episode will give you practical ways to step back intentionally and create more opportunities for independence throughout the school day. Download the Free Prompt Hierarchy Poster here Not a member? Join Today — 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

    11 min
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About

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!

Information

  • Creator
    Stephanie DeLussey
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    62
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 Stephanie DeLussey
  • Show Website
    The Intentional IEP Podcast

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