Larissa and her guest, Ashley Pennell, former Assistant Director of Special Education, explore the misconceptions surrounding accommodations in special education, emphasizing the importance of understanding their purpose and the need for individualized support. The discussion highlights the necessity of involving students in their learning process and creating a supportive classroom environment that removes stigmas around asking for help.

Resources:

https://www.ncld.org/

https://www.understood.org/

https://www.ed.gov/laws-and-policy/individuals-disabilities/section-504

Special Ed Article

Cracking the Code: Bridging MTSS and Special Education for Student Success

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2025 Branching Minds MTSS Summit

Takeaways:

• Accommodations provide access, not unfair advantages.
• Misunderstandings about accommodations stem from lack of education.
• It's essential to regularly evaluate the need for accommodations.
• Involving students in discussions about their accommodations is crucial.
• Creating a supportive classroom environment helps reduce stigma.
• Accommodations can be temporary and should be re-evaluated.
• Personalized accommodations are necessary for student success.
• Leveling the playing field is vital for students with disabilities.
• Educators must understand the difference between accommodations and modifications.
• It's okay for students to ask for help and use tools to succeed.

Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our Branching Minds Website, or sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS. Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.

Send feedback or inquiries to podcast@branchingminds.com!

This conversation explores the transformative potential of AI in education, focusing on its role in enhancing teaching and learning, the importance of AI literacy for both students and educators, and the challenges and opportunities presented by AI in addressing educational equity. Chris Agnew, Director of Generative AI for Education Hub at Stanford, shares insights on how AI can support underserved communities, the barriers to implementing innovative educational practices, and practical advice for education leaders navigating this evolving landscape.

Resources:

https://acceleratelearning.stanford.edu/initiative/digital-learning/

https://acceleratelearning.stanford.edu/initiative/scale/

https://scale.stanford.edu/ai/repository

https://acceleratelearning.stanford.edu/story/what-does-ai-mean-for-learners-with-disabilities/

https://www.teachai.org/toolkit

https://www.teachai.org/

https://www.cosn.org/

Blog: AI for Educators: Game Changing Tools That Make Your Life Easier

Branchings MTSS Assistant Dottie: https://www.branchingminds.com/dottie-ai-mtss

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Takeaways:

• AI is reshaping education by enhancing teaching and learning.
• AI literacy is essential for both students and educators.
• The potential of AI in education is still being explored.
• AI can help close achievement gaps for underserved communities.
• Reimagining education with AI requires innovative thinking.
• Education leaders face challenges in implementing AI effectively.
• AI tools can streamline administrative tasks for teachers.
• Building a culture of AI literacy is crucial for future success.
• AI can support personalized learning experiences for students.
• Collaboration between educators and AI developers is key.

Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our Branching Minds Website, or sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS. Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.

Send feedback or inquiries to podcast@branchingminds.com!

This conversation focuses on the structure and effectiveness of Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) teams in educational settings. The speakers discuss the importance of accountability, data-driven decision-making, and the roles and responsibilities within MTSS teams. They emphasize the need for effective meeting structures and the integration of qualitative and quantitative data to improve student outcomes. The conversation also highlights the significance of leadership and collaboration in implementing MTSS successfully.

Resources:

MTSS Meetings Guide

Article: Ensure Efficiency with MTSS Teams & MTSS Meetings

2025 Branching Minds MTSS Summit

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Takeaways:

• MTSS is essential for improving student outcomes.
• Effective teaming structures are crucial for collaboration.
• Data-driven decision-making enhances the MTSS process.
• Qualitative data provides insights that quantitative data may miss.
• Clear roles and responsibilities improve team efficiency.
• Regular meetings are necessary for effective MTSS implementation.
• Agendas help keep meetings focused and productive.
• Building a supportive schedule is key to MTSS success.
• Leadership plays a vital role in MTSS effectiveness.
• Starting small can lead to significant improvements.

Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our Branching Minds Website, or sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS. Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.

Send feedback or inquiries to podcast@branchingminds.com!