Welcome ECSE Staff!
Welcome ECSE Staff!
Here you will find information, resources and tools for Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE).
Welcome, OUSD ECSE Teachers!
We are excited to support you in creating engaging and inclusive learning environments for our youngest learners. This resource hub is designed to provide you with tools, strategies, and materials tailored to the unique needs of Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE)
Click here for Creative Curriculum, lesson planning, daily schedule tools & information
Find tools and information to support the development and implementation of IEPs and the use of the YCAT assessment in special education settings.
Access printable visuals designed to support special education students by enhancing communication, promoting independence, and creating a clear, inclusive learning environment.
Click here to find resources for all ECE educators including Personal Development, Tech Tutorials, Wellness Tips, and much more!
Our Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Approach:
At the heart of our SEL work is the Teaching Pyramid framework, which promotes healthy social-emotional development for all children. Rooted in equity, inclusion, and trauma-informed care, this approach supports educators in creating nurturing relationships, predictable routines, and supportive classroom environments.
Here are some essential Teaching Pyramid resources to support SEL in your classroom. To learn more about the Teaching Pyramid and additional resources:
The foundation of the Teaching Pyramid is you! This guide offers simple, effective ways to take care of yourself so you can show up as your best self for your students.
How we greet children sets the tone for connection. This tool supports relationship-building, a key piece of the Teaching Pyramid framework.
Go beyond simple praise! Learn how to meaningfully acknowledge student behavior using Positive Descriptive Acknowledgement to reinforce learning and connection.
Consistent routines and expectations are important. Use this template (with icons, translations, and space for student photos) to help children understand and navigate their day with confidence.
Learn more about how the MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Supports) team supports early childhood classrooms through tiered strategies and inclusive practices.
Info coming soon.
[Link will be added here once available]
Resilient Oakland Communities & Kids (ROCK) is a trauma-informed initiative that supports OUSD early educators with tools, coaching, and strategies to build healing-centered, resilient classrooms.
Our amazing teachers have generously shared tools and ideas that support classroom learning and connection. Click here to explore a few!
Culture, Diversity, and Equity
"Early educators who learn to think from a multicultural perspective are better able to provide opportunities that reflect each child’s culture and family experiences (Banks 2006 and 2008). Learning environments are enriched when children’s individual characteristics, values, cultures, and temperaments—as well as diversity among children, families, and peers—are respected and valued in concrete ways. " -(ECE Competencies, p. 29)
Here you will find resources to support culture, diversity, and equity in the classroom.
Language Development
Within our ECE classrooms, we are dedicated to fostering the language development of young children. On this page, you will find a wealth of resources designed to support educators in nurturing children's language abilities. Our materials include best practices, visual supports, and evidence-based strategies to help children expand their vocabulary, improve their communication skills, and build a strong linguistic foundation.
Dual Language Supports
Dual-language development refers to the process by which a child acquires their home language and English. Here are some resources to support multilingualism within your ECE classroom
More SpED resources coming soon!