Teaching Functional Academics: Strategies for Generalization and Independence with Michela Laverty

"Fast 15" with Champions of Special Education

📍 Welcome to the FAST 15 podcast, your go-to source for game-changing tips, advice, and motivational tools for special educators. Proudly sponsored by Specially Designed Education Services (SDES), the publishers of The Functional Academics program. Transform your special education classroom in just 15 minutes!

Introduction and Welcome
Host: Barb Beck https://sdesworks.com/about-us/
Guest: Michela Laverty, Professional Development Trainer at SDES

In this episode, Barb and Michela delve into the critical topic of generalizing skills outside the classroom, exploring Michela's experiences and strategies for making the Functional Academics Program more personalized.

Discussion with Michela Laverty on Curriculum and Teaching Methods

• Michela shares her initial experience with the Functional Academics Program and the need to personalize the curriculum.
• Emphasis on the importance of understanding and teaching skills in various ways, moving beyond a one-size-fits-all approach.

Differentiating Instruction and Generalizing Skills

• Michela highlights the significance of differentiated instruction and practical examples of teaching the "Dollar-Up Method."
• Exploring methods such as whole group instruction, small group activities, and real-world applications to enhance comprehension.

Leveraging Community Resources

• Michela shares insights on leveraging community connections to acquire materials, emphasizing the importance of being open and building relationships.
• Practical tips for acquiring materials on a budget, from printable money resources to community donations.

Making Functional Academics as Functional as Possible

• The importance of aligning curriculum with the students in front of you, adapting to their unique needs.
• Encouragement to seek help from interested individuals by leveraging their support for specific projects or needs.

Final Thoughts and Conclusion

• Michela encourages educators to stay open-minded, get resourceful, and not be afraid to ask for support.
• Emphasizes the dynamic nature of functional academics, requiring alignment with the current needs and abilities of students.

📍 A big thank you to Michela Laverty for her valuable insights. Tune in for more episodes, and remember, SDES is here to support you on your journey in special education.

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Barbara Beck is the host of the FAST 15 Podcast. She is a highly dedicated Disability Advocate and Special Education Consultant specializing in IEP Transition Services. Barbara has an extensive background as a special education teacher spanning nearly 30 years. She has dedicated her career to empowering transition-age youth and fostering positive post-school outcomes.

Barbara's expertise lies in providing comprehensive support and guidance to students with disabilities, ensuring their successful transition from school to adult life. She possesses a deep understanding of secondary services and possesses the skills to develop tailored strategies that maximize individual potential.

For more information and resources on special education school-to-adulthood transition planning and independent living, visit www.mykeyplans.com. Join us on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and discussions about special education, inclusion, and disability advocacy. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn and use #IEPLaunchpadPodcast to join the conversation. Thank you for tuning in to the IEP Launchpad Podcast! 🎧🎙️#IDD #teaching #specialed #specialneeds #InclusionMatters #DisabilityAdvocacy #EmpowerVoices #edtech, #education #edtech, #teachers