High-leverage practices (HLPs) are the basic educational practices that all special educators should master before they begin teaching. HLPs ensure that all teachers use the most effective practices for improving student achievement and provide focus (or curriculum) for teacher preparation, induction, and professional development These practices are are critical to helping students learn important content and to support students’ social and emotional development. High-leverage practices are used across subject areas, grade levels, and contexts. They are considered “high-leverage” because they are critical for advancing skill in teaching.