Embedded Files
EmbraceAbilities
EmbraceAbilities
Special Education Resource Lead focused on supporting inclusion for students with extensive support needs
Best Practices
Academic and Instructional Strategies
Mindset
Mindset
Presuming competence and having high expectations is the "least dangerous assumption." Always start with the belief that a student can learn and understand, even if they cannot yet demonstrate it through traditional means. Every student carries an untapped brilliance that doesn't just sit there; it waits for a reason to ignite. If you treat a student like they are capable of the extraordinary, you stop looking for their deficits and start looking for their glow.
In Practice:
Use age-appropriate language and materials.
Align goals with grade-level standards (even if the performance criteria are modified)
Communication
Communication
For many students with ESN, behavior is communication. Providing a reliable voice is the highest priority.
Use Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices, core boards, or sign language.
Teachers and peers should use the student's AAC system to talk to them (Aided Language Stimulation).
A student’s communication device is their voice; it should never be removed as a "punishment."
Instead of retrofitting a lesson for one student, design the lesson from the start to be accessible to everyone.
The "Why" of learning (Motivation)
The "Why" of learning (Motivation)
Offering choice in topics, using gamification, and providing "real-world" relevance.
The "What" of learning (Perception)
The "What" of learning (Perception)
Providing closed captions, using visual infographics, and offering text-to-speech options.
The "How" of learning (Strategy)
The "How" of learning (Strategy)
Allowing students to submit a video essay, a written report, or an oral presentation.
Evidence-based Teaching Strategies
Evidence-based Teaching Strategies
Task Analysis
Task Analysis
Break complex skills (like washing hands or solving a math problem) into tiny, discrete steps.
Constant Time Delay
Constant Time Delay
Wait a set number of seconds (e.g., 4 or 5 seconds) before prompting to give the student time to process and respond independently.
Visual Schedule
Visual Schedule
Use "First/Then" boards or visual timelines to reduce anxiety and clarify transitions.
High Leverage Practices
HLP-Overview-Flyer.pdfLest Restrictive Environment (LRE)
Students with extensive support needs can be educated in a variety of settings that may include some of the most restrictive learning environments.
Additional Resources
TIES Center works with states, districts, and schools to support the movement of students with disabilities from less inclusive to more inclusive environments.
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