Advertise on podcast: Reaching Struggling Learners

Ever felt like the educational support system is a maze without an exit? I'm Jessica Curtis, and in this episode, I confront the tangle head-on, dissecting the complexities of MTSS and RTI in schools. Join me as I make the case for these frameworks to be more than mere pathways to special education, advocating for a synergistic relationship where shared insights and strategies lead to student success. With a focus on the parallels between MTSS and special education, I call attention to the importance of data-driven decisions, periodic reviews, and targeted goals, all crucial for meaningful progress. It's a mission to ensure that the commitment schools make to support student learning is not just a promise, but a practice. This conversation is an urgent one, with implications that reach far beyond individual classrooms. As the new year unfolds, it's time to rethink our approach to educational support, aiming for consistency and resource-sharing that can uplift both MTSS and special education. By exploring interventions like the Orton-Gillingham approach, which may serve to elevate all students, we can begin to address the deep-seated issues that leave too many students lagging in basic skills. I'm calling for a year of innovation to combat teacher burnout and reverse the exodus from this critical profession, crafting an educational experience that's as fulfilling for educators as it is for students. Tune in for a candid discussion about shaping an educational future where every learner is equipped for success. Subscribe & Review in iTunes Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the mix and if you’re not subscribed there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on those. Click here for iTunes.  Now if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find my podcast and they’re also fun for me to go in and read. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you! Links Mentioned in the Show: https://teachingstrugglinglearners.com  5 Steps to Getting Started with Progress Monitoring

Ever feel like you're playing detective when it comes to monitoring math progress? Well, grab your magnifying glass because on today's episode, I, Jessica Curtis, am your guide to unraveling the mystery of effective math intervention. With a spotlight on choosing students with aligned needs and deciphering assessment data, we lay out an actionable plan to reinforce those foundational math skills that are so often the culprits of confusion. And let's not forget the significance of prerequisite skills – we ensure these are locked in place, setting up our students for a smoother climb up the math mountain. As we navigate the twists and turns of math education, you'll discover how a splash of color and the vroom of miniature cars can transform a daunting concept into an 'aha!' moment. Sharing my personal toolkit of creative strategies, I invite you to join me in thinking outside the traditional teaching box. Stay tuned for a sneak peek at our next episode where I'll stir the pot with some controversial math opinions. Until then, may your coffee be strong and your breaks be restorative. Let's toast to a year where math struggles meet their match! Subscribe & Review in iTunes Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the mix and if you’re not subscribed there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on those. Click here for iTunes.  Now if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find my podcast and they’re also fun for me to go in and read. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you! Links Mentioned in the Show: https://teachingstrugglinglearners.com  5 Steps to Getting Started with Progress Monitoring

I still remember the day when algebra went from being my nemesis to my ally, a transformation that wouldn't have been possible without a firm grasp of basic math. Now, I want to help you navigate the same challenges, as we explore the impact of foundational skills on mastering algebra. In the heart of our discussion, I take you back to my high school special education teaching days, sharing firsthand insights into how students' struggles with fundamental math operations can create barriers to grasping more complex mathematical concepts. Together, we'll confront the sobering reality facing today's students and the educational system, emphasizing the urgent need to prioritize these critical skills for academic success. As the episode winds down, I can't help but look forward to the upcoming break, and I'm sure you're feeling the same. Sending out a wave of tranquility to all of you hard workers out there, I hope this episode leaves you feeling prepared to tackle the challenges ahead and then unwind in the peace of your well-deserved time off. Keep that coffee strong and your spirits higher. Wishing you all a restful pause from the daily grind, we'll reunite on the other side, refreshed and ready to satisfy our shared curiosity once more. Thank you for sharing this journey with me, and remember to cherish the calm that comes with a break well earned. Subscribe & Review in iTunes Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the mix and if you’re not subscribed there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on those. Click here for iTunes.  Now if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find my podcast and they’re also fun for me to go in and read. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you! Links Mentioned in the Show: https://teachingstrugglinglearners.com  5 Steps to Getting Started with Progress Monitoring

Ever found yourself tangled in the complexities of math goals within IEPs, particularly those pesky word problems? You're in for a revelation as we tackle the misconceptions and unveil a more strategic approach. Word problems have been the go-to for encompassing multiple skills, but as I've experienced firsthand, this method isn't the golden ticket we thought it was. Through an eye-opening discussion, learn how I pivoted from using word problems as catch-all goals to focusing on specific foundational skills, leading to crystal-clear objectives and remarkable student progress. We'll dissect the essence of crafting math goals that truly cater to the needs of struggling learners and leave those overly broad targets behind. Hold onto your calculators, because this episode is also your gateway to mastering progress monitoring in math. I'm thrilled to share a math progress monitoring bundle that's been a game-changer in my teaching arsenal, and you won't want to miss the free guide I've put together. It's a succinct five-step walkthrough to kickstart your progress monitoring journey with confidence, tailored to fit even the most jam-packed academic schedules. Discover how to harness the power of focused, strategic intervention, and give your students the boost they need to excel in math, all without the overwhelm. Join us for this enlightening conversation and equip yourself with the tools to make measurable strides in your students' math abilities. Subscribe & Review in iTunes Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the mix and if you’re not subscribed there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on those. Click here for iTunes.  Now if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find my podcast and they’re also fun for me to go in and read. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you! Links Mentioned in the Show: https://teachingstrugglinglearners.com  5 Steps to Getting Started with Progress Monitoring

Ever feel like math gets the short end of the stick when it comes to educational support? Join me, Jessica Curtis, as I shine a spotlight on the shadowed world of math intervention, ensuring that students receive the balanced educational support they desperately need. In a realm where reading intervention takes center stage, I lead a charge to champion the cause of those wrestling with numbers. We'll unpack the necessity of foundational math skills, discussing how educators can identify and tackle deficits in students' understanding, from basic number recognition to complex geometrical concepts. This isn't just talk; it's a battle cry for action, urging teachers to spearhead effective math intervention strategies in their classrooms and ensure no child is left behind as they navigate the tricky waters of mathematics within the MTSS and RTI frameworks. Data isn't just numbers on a page – it's the compass that guides our teaching strategies and the lifeline that connects us to the resources our students need. In this heart-to-heart, I walk you through "Five Steps to Progress Monitoring," a toolkit designed to empower educators with the know-how to track and assess student progress confidently. Through charts and observation tools, we look into how data informs decision-making and communication with parents and colleagues. As we gear up for a fresh start post-holiday season, I'll share insights on the strategic timing for implementing these interventions, seeking to foster a robust environment of growth and achievement in the classroom. So, take my hand as we step into the world of data-driven instruction and advocacy, ensuring every learner has the opportunity to excel. Subscribe & Review in iTunes Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the mix and if you’re not subscribed there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on those. Click here for iTunes.  Now if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find my podcast and they’re also fun for me to go in and read. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you! Links Mentioned in the Show: https://teachingstrugglinglearners.com  5 Steps to Getting Started with Progress Monitoring

Ever felt overwhelmed by the task of progress monitoring? Rest easy, friends! We're here to demystify the process and arm you with some strategic tips to maximize your intervention time. We kick off our enlightening discussion with an in-depth exploration of ensuring your goals are precise and skill-focused. We’ll also touch on the importance of time-boxing lengthy skills, knowing what exactly you're monitoring, and making certain your interventions are in alignment with your goals.  The second part of our chat is just as illuminating, as we provide a blueprint to help you efficiently organize your progress monitoring efforts. Learn why the key to a streamlined process lies in setting skill-focused goals and aligning your monitoring with them. We also reveal handy resources that will be instrumental in maximizing your progress monitoring efficacy. And just a heads up - we're going to start diving into the world of mathematics in the context of MTSS next week. So, whether you're a seasoned educator or a rookie, this episode is your ticket to mastering the art of progress monitoring. Stay tuned!

What if the progress monitoring tool you are using is not aligned with your academic goals? How will this impact the data you collect and the progress you can report? Let's explore these questions and more in this enlightening episode where we delve into the nitty-gritty of progress monitoring for academic goals. We'll shed light on the importance of focusing on the skill area pertinent to the goal and offer valuable insights on how to review goals effectively and select the correct progress monitoring collection tool. Imagine having a five-step guide to kickstart your progress monitoring, complete with the right materials, examples, and actionable tips. That's exactly what we have for you in this episode! Get ready to learn how to prep your progress monitoring in advance, dodge printer jams and paper shortages, and organize your materials with intervention materials for stress-free access when you need them. As a bonus, we're also going to reveal how you can get your progress monitoring done in less than an hour a week in our next episode. So, stay tuned and let's master progress monitoring together. Subscribe & Review in iTunes Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the mix and if you’re not subscribed there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on those. Click here for iTunes.  Now if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find my podcast and they’re also fun for me to go in and read. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you! Links Mentioned in the Show: https://teachingstrugglinglearners.com  5 Steps to Getting Started with Progress Monitoring

Are you ready to rewrite the playbook on student goal setting and progress monitoring? Join Jessica from Teaching Struggling Learners shifts the focus from tests to practical skills. We'll unpack strategies for setting meaningful yet attainable goals for students, centered around mastering foundational skills. We'll also explore effective ways to track these goals and ensure students can perform beyond the test environment. On today's episode, we're challenging the conventional wisdom that test-focused goals are the gold standard in education. Jessica will shed light on the significance of setting skill-focused goals that promote thorough mastery of foundational skills, rather than merely gearing up for passing tests. Get a sneak peek into our next episode where we'll delve deeper into progress monitoring these skill-focused goals. Tune in, and let's rethink student goal setting together! Subscribe & Review in iTunes Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the mix and if you’re not subscribed there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on those. Click here for iTunes.  Now if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find my podcast and they’re also fun for me to go in and read. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you! Links Mentioned in the Show: https://teachingstrugglinglearners.com  5 Steps to Getting Started with Progress Monitoring

What if the answer to a student's reading struggle was hidden in plain sight? Join me, Jessica Curtis of Teaching Struggling Learners, as we unravel the mystery behind identifying the root cause of reading problems in students. We discuss how essential it is to dig deep to find the real cause before introducing any interventions. You'll gain insights into how collecting data, far beyond the usual academic screening, can offer clues as to when and potentially why your student started struggling. We also delve into the need for updated screeners, specifically those that check for foundational phonemic or phonological awareness. Uncover how pre-test practice may camouflage ongoing issues and why attendance and behavior problems can be a two-sided coin. Plus, I'll be guiding you through an actionable, step-by-step process that will empower you to support your struggling readers better. So tune in, and let's make a difference in our learners' lives together!

Last week we talked about how reading comprehension and the fight to increase reading skills and all of the interventions the math interventions the reading interventions all of these things are impacting the enjoyment the kids are finding in their reading and in school in general. That begs the question why are the reading comprehension interventions that we've been doing for years not working? So many kids are getting interventions for successive years and years yet, they're still not making progress. Why is that? Well that's what we're going to talk about today! Subscribe & Review in iTunes Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the mix and if you’re not subscribed there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on those. Click here for iTunes.  Now if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find my podcast and they’re also fun for me to go in and read. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you! Links Mentioned in the Show: https://teachingstrugglinglearners.com  5 Steps to Getting Started with Progress Monitoring

Do you remember how much fun it was to learn about the solar system, plants or the states of matter? I can still remember doing experiments in my elementary classrooms, as well as learning about all these really cool, smart, brave people from history. Going home and telling my family about all of the interesting facts that I learned that day was actually pretty cool, and man did my friends and I love to one-up each other on our knowledge about facts we learned in school.  But, that isn’t the reality in classrooms anymore. The fact is that we spend almost all of our time focused on reading and math, and almost no time teaching about science or history/social studies. The fact is, it’s boring! Practicing a skill over and over again, but never having anything to show for it is incredibly frustrating, and I can only imagine how boring it is for kids to sit through day after day of skill practice when they never get to actually go home and say “Today, I learned something about____”   Today, we are going to talk about what we have been doing in schools in regards to reading and math skill focus, and what we COULD do to make school motivating again! Subscribe & Review in iTunes Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the mix and if you’re not subscribed there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on those. Click here for iTunes.  Now if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find my podcast and they’re also fun for me to go in and read. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you! Links Mentioned in the Show: https://teachingstrugglinglearners.com  5 Steps to Getting Started with Progress Monitoring

Obviously I talk a lot about intervention plans, how important they are and how effective they can be…but I didn’t always have a good intervention plan, or quite frankly an intervention plan at all!  My first year teaching, I was a special education teacher for elementary and it was quite an adventure. I wasn’t given a curriculum or anything other than a scope and sequence for when different things were going to be taught and told to use that and the very random resources in my classroom to teach my students. There really was no official curriculum for that grade at that time, so the teachers were supposed to work together to plan for what they would do. Unfortunately, the climate in this school was very competitive so the teachers used their own materials, or maybe shared with their one friend, but there really was no overall plan or sharing of materials within the grade level….so I was left really in the dark on what materials or resources my students would be using in their individual classrooms. As a first year teacher, that REALLY made my life difficult.  So, I did what new teachers do best….I found free resources wherever I could (this was before Teachers Pay Teachers to give you an idea of how long I’ve been teaching) and I made it work.  Guys, it was so bad! I had a general idea for what the kids were supposed to be learning in their classes, and what the IEP goals were, but other than that….I really didn’t know where to start or what to do! I was constantly trying new resources out to see if they worked on this goal or that one, but there really wasn’t a cohesive plan behind what I was trying to do….other than I wanted my students to succeed. And I absolutely wrecked myself trying to make it all work….  It wasn’t until my second year teacher, changing schools and seeing a more cohesive plan or mindset for how interventions could be managed that I was able to pull my poor little ducks in a row and start figuring out my own cohesive plan to provide quality interventions for my students. But man, making that shift changed my entire teaching career, and honestly if I hadn’t made that change I don’t think I would have stayed in teaching past that second year….yeah….having an intervention plan that worked really was and still is THAT important.  Subscribe & Review in iTunes Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the mix and if you’re not subscribed there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on those. Click here for iTunes.  Now if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find my podcast and they’re also fun for me to go in and read. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you! Links Mentioned in the Show: https://teachingstrugglinglearners.com  5 Steps to Getting Started with Progress Monitoring