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Elevating Instruction: Preparing Teachers for Diverse Classrooms
For general education teachers, specialized training and consistent support in working with students with disabilities is no longer a niche skill—it’s a foundational requirement for effective teaching.
Despite this reality, there is currently no mandate for general education teachers to undergo professional development focused on diverse learners as part of their recertification requirements. Preparing these teachers with instructional skills benefits every student and teach

DJ Nicholson
Nov 113 min read


Guiding Non-Traditional Teachers with Coaching and Professional Development
Instructional coaching is the single most effective lever for translating educational theory into actual, high-quality classroom practice. It's a collaborative partnership with no evaluation attached to it, and teachers can really appreciate that. For a teacher lacking traditional training, an instructional coach is their personal guide to more effective instruction.

DJ Nicholson
Nov 63 min read


Supporting Every Learner: Strategies for an Inclusive Classroom Environment
Imagine a classroom filled with energy, where every student feels valued, supported, and challenged. This isn't just a dream; it's the reality of inclusive classrooms.
Inclusion isn't just about accommodating students with disabilities; it's about fostering a diverse learning environment that benefits ALL children. Here's the secret: inclusion benefits all kids.

DJ Nicholson
Jul 182 min read


Beyond "High" and "Low": Seeing Kids Through the Lens of Support Needs
For years, we've often heard kids, particularly those who are neurodivergent or have disabilities, described using terms like "high-functioning" or "low-functioning." While seemingly convenient labels, these categories can paint an incomplete and sometimes damaging picture of a kid's unique strengths and challenges. Thankfully, a more nuanced and, frankly, more respectful way of understanding our kids is gaining traction: focusing on individual support needs.

DJ Nicholson
Apr 283 min read


Let's Talk About It: Creating More Inclusive Opportunities for the Next School Year
Think outside the box! Inclusion isn't a one-size-fits-all approach. Don't hesitate to suggest creative ideas and advocate for practices that truly support your child's meaningful engagement.

DJ Nicholson
Apr 282 min read


Preparing for a “Next” Successful School Year: Focusing on Accommodations, Modifications, and Support
As the current school year concludes, it's a great time to reflect on successes. Before fully embracing the summer break, take time to consider how to best support your neurodivergent kid in the upcoming academic year.

DJ Nicholson
Apr 282 min read


Let's Talk ESY: Is it the Right Fit for Your Child?
As the school year winds down, a new topic often comes up in IEP meetings: Extended School Year (ESY) services. You might be wondering, "What exactly is ESY, and is it something my child needs?"

DJ Nicholson
Apr 283 min read


Spring into Action: Making the Most of Your Child's IEP Before Summer
Before you pack away the backpacks and celebrate the break, there's one important piece of business that deserves your attention: your kid's Individualized Education Program (IEP).

DJ Nicholson
Apr 214 min read


Understanding the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) for Kids with Disabilities
What is the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE)?
The LRE is a key part of special education law. It states that children with disabilities

DJ Nicholson
Feb 103 min read


The Importance of the "Right" Accommodations for Kids with Disabilities
Learning accommodations step in as the compass, guiding kids toward success, growth, and a sense of accomplishment. And remove barriers to

DJ Nicholson
Dec 27, 20243 min read


Six Tips to Empower Parents in the IEP Process and Get Involved in Your Kid's Best Learning!
Being a parent of a kid with autism or other disability can make the whole Individual Education Program (IEP) process feel pretty daunting.

DJ Nicholson
Dec 2, 20242 min read


My Kid Needs More Support in School. What Do I Do?
Every kid should get what they need to be successful in school regardless of disability or neurodivergence.

DJ Nicholson
Nov 25, 20242 min read


Including Kids on the Autism Spectrum: Anthony
Five-year old Anthony truly was one of my most favorite students ever. He saw the world through a unique lens, with a lot of wonder...

DJ Nicholson
Nov 18, 20243 min read


Grace, Gratitude, and a Bit of Grit
As an educational coach that supports moms of neurodivergent child with high support needs, I have seen firsthand the rollercoaster...

DJ Nicholson
Sep 22, 20242 min read


Lessening the Overwhelm: A Parent's Guide to IEPs and Educational Coaching
When your kid receives a new disability diagnosis, it can feel like a whirlwind of emotions. Fear, uncertainty, and a sense of overwhelm...

DJ Nicholson
Sep 20, 20242 min read


Yet Another "Ism": Ableism is a Barrier to Inclusion
Inclusion and equitable access to education are fundamental principles of a well-rounded society. Howver, ableism...

DJ Nicholson
Sep 19, 20243 min read


IEP Secrets from an Insider
Are a IEPs a bit... combative? Wonder what they are thinking on the other side of the table? Curious how you can create a world where...

DJ Nicholson
Jan 7, 20241 min read


Special Education “Labels”: Another Barrier to Inclusive Learning
Author’s note: I am not a fan of "labels". I have seen over the course of my years in special education, so many instances of...

DJ Nicholson
Nov 17, 20232 min read


Empowering Every Child: The Vital Importance of Learning Tools for Kids with Disabilities
In a world that thrives on diversity, it's essential that we create an inclusive environment for every child to grow, learn, and succeed....

DJ Nicholson
Aug 24, 20233 min read


The "Do-be-do-be-do..." of Inclusion
Which one? What was once a catchy little ditty (think Frank Sinatra) to hum to yourself is now an option on how you view inclusion....

DJ Nicholson
Jun 23, 20232 min read
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