Supporting Interactions in a Special Needs Setting

In this episode, we uncover the practical steps taken by the Fairfax County Public Schools team to introduce the CLASS tool in special education settings. Jess, Cindy, and Christy share their experiences addressing teacher hesitation and bias, providing effective training, and fostering empathy through coaching.

Through individual and group coaching methods, they highlight the importance of active listening, meaningful feedback, and peer collaboration. They share real-life examples to illustrate the positive impact of these strategies on teaching effectiveness and classroom interactions, emphasizing the significance of quality interactions and intentional instruction.

Topics Discussed in This Episode

• [00:01:30] Introducing Christy, Jess, and Cindy
• [00:03:16] Challenges in rolling out CLASS
• [00:07:12] The framework for addressing bias
• [00:13:42] Strategies for addressing bias
• [00:16:25] Activities to foster a strong culture of improvement
• [00:22:30] What happens during observations
• [00:23:19] How the teachers felt through the roll-out period
• [00:26:52] Being sensitive as a coach as well as a teacher
• [00:28:19] How teaching experiences impact coaching
• [00:28:42] Cindy’s coaching experience
• [00:30:30] Where the teachers started and how they moved
• [00:33:15] The biggest lessons learned and what should be done differently
• [00:40:02] How CLASS is good for special education
• [00:45:45] Favorite teacher quotes

Resources

Marnetta Larrimer

Jess Schuhart

Cindy Sigsbee

Christie Johnson