The Intentional IEP Podcast

Epizode

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  E68. SDI vs. Accommodations vs. Interventions 17.08.2026 12min

  SDI, accommodations, and interventions are terms we hear constantly in special education but they are often used interchangeably. Understanding the difference matters because each serves a different purpose when supporting students.In this episode, we break down what each one means, how they differ, and how they can work together to support student success.Stephanie unpacks:What specially designed instruction (SDI) is and what it looks like in practiceHow accommodations provide access without changing learning expectationsWhat interventions are and how they differ from special educationThe difference between accommodations and modificationsReal classroom examples of SDI, accommodations, and interventionsHow all three supports can work together within an IEPQuestions IEP team members can ask to determine what type of support a student needsThe goal isn't to choose between SDI, accommodations, and interventions—it's to understand the purpose of each and use them intentionally to meet a student's individual needs.Not a member? Join Today — you can get 50% off your first month of membership https://products.theintentionaliep.com/tii-membership-50off1stmonth-podcast/For more information, check out more of Stephanie's resources:https://www.theintentionaliep.com/the-intentional-iep-book/https://www.theintentionaliep.com/https://www.facebook.com/theintentionaliephttps://www.instagram.com/theintentionaliep
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  E67. How to Send Home a Draft IEP 10.08.2026 15min

  Sending home a draft IEP before the meeting can create more meaningful collaboration and give families the time they need to review the proposed plan, process the information, and come prepared with questions.In this episode, Stephanie discusses:What a draft IEP is and how to send one home appropriatelyWhy draft IEPs can improve parent participationHow to avoid predetermination and invite meaningful feedbackIf you’re looking for ways to make your IEP meetings more collaborative and family-centered, this episode is a great place to start. You’ll walk away with practical ideas for sharing draft IEPs while keeping the door open for meaningful team discussion and changes.Not a member? Join Today — you can get 50% off your first month of membership https://products.theintentionaliep.com/tii-membership-50off1stmonth-podcast/For more information, check out more of Stephanie's resources:https://www.theintentionaliep.com/the-intentional-iep-book/https://www.theintentionaliep.com/https://www.facebook.com/theintentionaliephttps://www.instagram.com/theintentionaliep
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  E66. What to Do When an IEP Isn't Being Followed 03.08.2026 22min

  An IEP is a legally binding document that ensures a student receives the supports they need to access their education. But what happens when those supports are not actually being implemented in the classroom?In this episode, Stephanie breaks down what IEP non-compliance can look like in real settings, how to tell the difference between a one-time issue and a pattern, and what steps teachers and families can take to address concerns while keeping the focus on student access and progress.In this episode Stephanie discussesWhat IEP non-compliance can look like, both obvious and subtleHow to determine whether an issue is isolated or part of a larger patternWhat teachers and families can do to document, communicate, and advocate effectivelyWays to prevent implementation breakdowns through stronger systems and collaborationBy the end of this episode you will have a clearer understanding of how to respond when an IEP is not being followed and how to move from frustration into action that supports the student.Not a member? Join Today — you can get 50% off your first month of membership https://products.theintentionaliep.com/tii-membership-50off1stmonth-podcast/For more information, check out more of Stephanie's resources:https://www.theintentionaliep.com/the-intentional-iep-book/https://www.theintentionaliep.com/https://www.facebook.com/theintentionaliephttps://www.instagram.com/theintentionaliep
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  E65. How to Tell If an IEP Goal Is Too Ambitious (Without Guessing) 27.07.2026 12min

  One of the most common questions special education teachers ask is, "Is this IEP goal too ambitious?" The answer isn't based on a feeling or a percentage that sounds right. It's found in the data.In this episode, Stephanie explains how to use baseline data, previous IEP progress, and student growth patterns to write goals that are both realistic and appropriately challenging. Instead of relying on opinions or guesswork, you'll learn how to use data to make confident goal writing decisions.In this episode you will learn:Why baseline data is the foundation of every strong IEP goalThe importance of collecting data with and without supportsHow past growth can help determine realistic goal criteriaBy the end of this episode, you'll have a clearer framework for deciding whether an IEP goal is too ambitious, not ambitious enough, or just right for the student sitting in front of you.Not a member? Join Today — you can get 50% off your first month of membership https://products.theintentionaliep.com/tii-membership-50off1stmonth-podcast/For more information, check out more of Stephanie's resources:https://www.theintentionaliep.com/the-intentional-iep-book/https://www.theintentionaliep.com/https://www.facebook.com/theintentionaliephttps://www.instagram.com/theintentionaliep
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  E64. Why IEP Meeting Agendas Are Often Overlooked (And Why You Need One) 20.07.2026 10min

  IEP meetings can quickly feel unorganized or reactive when there is no clear structure in place. While agendas are often treated as optional or overlooked altogether, they play a critical role in keeping meetings focused, compliant, and productive for everyone at the table.In this episode Stephanie breaks down why IEP meeting agendas matter, what should be included based on meeting type, and how they help teams stay aligned and confident throughout the process.In this episode you'll learn:Why IEP meeting agendas are often overlooked and how that impacts the meeting processWhat should be included in agendas for different types of IEP meetingsHow agendas help create clarity, structure, and stronger team collaborationBy the end of this episode you will understand how something as simple as a clear agenda can completely change the flow and effectiveness of your IEP meetings.Not a member? Join Today — you can get 50% off your first month of membership https://products.theintentionaliep.com/tii-membership-50off1stmonth-podcast/For more information, check out more of Stephanie's resources:https://www.theintentionaliep.com/the-intentional-iep-book/https://www.theintentionaliep.com/https://www.facebook.com/theintentionaliephttps://www.instagram.com/theintentionaliep
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  E63. Building an IEP System That Survives Teacher Turnover 13.07.2026 18min

  If your IEP system only works because you are the one holding it all together, it is not actually a system yet. It is a dependency. And that is exactly what leads to burnout when staff changes happen, caseloads shift, or someone new steps into the role.In this episode Stephanie breaks down what it really takes to build an IEP system that does not fall apart when people change, including the types of burnout that show up when systems are missing and the key shifts that create long term consistency and support for your team.In this episode Stephanie discusses:The five types of burnout special education teachers experience when systems are not in placeWhy strong systems should support consistency even when staff changes happenThe five foundational shifts that help build an IEP system that actually lastsBy the end of this episode you will start to see where your current system is holding strong and where it may be relying too heavily on you instead of supporting the team as a whole.Not a member? Join Today — you can get 50% off your first month of membership https://products.theintentionaliep.com/tii-membership-50off1stmonth-podcast/For more information, check out more of Stephanie's resources:https://www.theintentionaliep.com/the-intentional-iep-book/https://www.theintentionaliep.com/https://www.facebook.com/theintentionaliephttps://www.instagram.com/theintentionaliep
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  E62. When Behavior Goals Should Replace Academic Ones 06.07.2026 25min

  When academic goals are in place but a student still can’t access instruction, it may be behavior—not academics—that needs to be addressed first. In this episode, Stephanie breaks down how to recognize when behavior is the real barrier to learning, when it’s appropriate to shift IEP priorities, and how to use data to guide those decisions.In this episode, Stephanie discusses:The difference between academic and behavior goals in an IEPSigns behavior is preventing access to instructionHow to use data to support a temporary shift in goal focusIf this episode helped you rethink how you approach goal writing, be sure to share it with your team or another educator who might need the same perspective. For more support with writing effective, intentional IEPs, make sure you’re subscribed so you don’t miss the next episode.Not a member? Join Today — you can get 50% off your first month of membership https://products.theintentionaliep.com/tii-membership-50off1stmonth-podcast/For more information, check out more of Stephanie's resources:https://www.theintentionaliep.com/the-intentional-iep-book/https://www.theintentionaliep.com/https://www.facebook.com/theintentionaliephttps://www.instagram.com/theintentionaliep
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  E61. Come Prepared: What General Education Teachers Need to Bring to an IEP Meeting 29.06.2026 10min

  In this episode of The Intentional IEP Podcast, Stephanie is talking about what general education teachers should bring to every IEP meeting. While special education teachers often lead the meeting, general education teachers play a critical role in making informed decisions. The key is coming prepared with data, not just observations.In this episode, you'll learn:Why general education teachers should bring data on IEP goals, accommodations, and classroom performance.How simple data collection leads to stronger recommendations and better team decisions.Easy ways to track student progress without creating extra work.Whether you're a general education teacher preparing for your next meeting or a special education teacher supporting your team, this episode will help you make IEP meetings more productive and student-focused.Not a member? Join Today — you can get 50% off your first month of membership https://products.theintentionaliep.com/tii-membership-50off1stmonth-podcast/For more information, check out more of Stephanie's resources:https://www.theintentionaliep.com/the-intentional-iep-book/https://www.theintentionaliep.com/https://www.facebook.com/theintentionaliephttps://www.instagram.com/theintentionaliep
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  E60. Standards-Aligned IEP Goals (Without Doing It Wrong) 22.06.2026 13min

  Writing standards-aligned IEP goals can feel overwhelming, especially when you've been told to align goals to grade-level standards without being shown what that actually looks like in practice.In this episode, we're breaking down a simple framework for aligning IEP goals to state standards while keeping them individualized and appropriate for each student's needs.Stephanie covers:• Why standards-aligned does not mean copying and pasting a state standard into an IEP goal• How to use baseline data, grade-level standards, and skill gaps to identify the next appropriate step for a student• How prerequisite skills can help you create meaningful goals that move students toward grade-level expectationsIf you've ever wondered how to balance standards, data, and individual student needs, this episode will help you write goals that are aligned, purposeful, and focused on real progress.Not a member? Join Today — you can get 50% off your first month of membership https://products.theintentionaliep.com/tii-membership-50off1stmonth-podcast/For more information, check out more of Stephanie's resources:https://www.theintentionaliep.com/the-intentional-iep-book/https://www.theintentionaliep.com/https://www.facebook.com/theintentionaliephttps://www.instagram.com/theintentionaliep
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  E59. From Panic to Prepared: Your Step-by-Step System for Getting Ready for an IEP Meeting 15.06.2026 17min

  Do you ever look at your calendar and realize an IEP meeting is coming up much faster than expected?In this episode, we're breaking down a step-by-step system for preparing for IEP meetings without the last-minute stress and scrambling. From scheduling the meeting and gathering team input to writing present levels, developing goals, and preparing families, you'll learn how to create a process that keeps you organized and confident every step of the way.If you're tired of feeling rushed before every IEP meeting, this episode will help you create a system that saves time, reduces stress, and leads to better outcomes for students.Not a member? Join Today — you can get 50% off your first month of membership https://products.theintentionaliep.com/tii-membership-50off1stmonth-podcast/For more information, check out more of Stephanie's resources:https://www.theintentionaliep.com/the-intentional-iep-book/https://www.theintentionaliep.com/https://www.facebook.com/theintentionaliephttps://www.instagram.com/theintentionaliep
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  E58. Stop the Chaos: Systems for Communicating with Multiple Paraprofessionals 08.06.2026 18min

  In this episode, Stephanie is talking about simple systems that help special education teachers communicate more effectively with paraprofessionals, reduce confusion, and create stronger team collaboration throughout the school day.She shares:• Why communication systems matter more than constant conversations• Ways to create visual communication systems that reduce questions and increase independence• Strategies for building a culture of open communication and feedbackWhether you're working with one para or managing a larger team, these practical strategies can help improve communication, strengthen teamwork, and create a more organized classroom environment.Not a member? Join Today — you can get 50% off your first month of membership https://products.theintentionaliep.com/tii-membership-50off1stmonth-podcast/For more information, check out more of Stephanie's resources:https://www.theintentionaliep.com/the-intentional-iep-book/https://www.theintentionaliep.com/https://www.facebook.com/theintentionaliephttps://www.instagram.com/theintentionaliep
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  Special Education Teachers: This Is for You 05.06.2026 1min

  Summer is the best time to get ahead before the school year starts.That’s why we created the Summer PD Series.This is practical professional development for special education teachers who want strategies they can use right away. With over 50+ trainings, you’ll get expert-led sessions focused on IEPs, behavior, data collection, collaboration, and student success.Everything is built to help you walk into the new school year prepared, confident, and ready.Join the Summer PD Series today.https://www.theintentionaliep.com/summer-pd-series/
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  E57. How to Explain Lack of Progress to Parents (Without Panic) 01.06.2026 19min

  Talking to parents about a lack of progress is one of the most challenging parts of being a special education teacher. When you've been working hard, collecting data, and providing support, it can be difficult to explain that a student isn't growing as expected.In this episode, Stephanie shares how to approach these conversations with confidence, use data effectively, and collaborate with families to determine the best next steps.Stephanie covers:What progress really means within an IEPWhy consistent progress monitoring mattersHow to analyze data before talking with parentsWays to explain lack of progress clearly and honestlyLack of progress doesn't mean anyone has failed. It provides valuable information that helps the IEP team make informed decisions and better support the student. This episode will help you navigate these difficult conversations with clarity, professionalism, and a focus on problem-solving.Not a member? Join Today — you can get 50% off your first month of membership https://products.theintentionaliep.com/tii-membership-50off1stmonth-podcast/For more information, check out more of Stephanie's resources:https://www.theintentionaliep.com/the-intentional-iep-book/https://www.theintentionaliep.com/https://www.facebook.com/theintentionaliephttps://www.instagram.com/theintentionaliep
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  E56. The Top 5 Self-Reflection Questions Teachers Should Ask at the End of the Year 25.05.2026 10min

  The school year is over. The desks are empty, the paperwork is done, and for the first time in a long time… there’s space to pause.Not the kind tied to compliance checklists, evaluation goals, or guilt. Real reflection. The kind that helps you figure out what actually worked this year, what left you overwhelmed, and what needs to change so next year feels lighter.If you’re a special educator carrying the weight of IEPs, behavior support, data collection, meetings, communication, and constant problem solving, this episode will help you slow down and look at the bigger picture before jumping into another school year.Inside this conversation, Stephanie walks through five powerful reflection questions to help you identify the systems that supported you, the patterns that drained you, and the kind of teacher you want to become moving forward.This episode is your reminder that you don’t have to carry the same stress, chaos, or burnout into another year. Reflection gives you the opportunity to rebuild with intention.Not a member? Join Today — you can get 50% off your first month of membership https://products.theintentionaliep.com/tii-membership-50off1stmonth-podcast/For more information, check out more of Stephanie's resources:https://www.theintentionaliep.com/the-intentional-iep-book/https://www.theintentionaliep.com/https://www.facebook.com/theintentionaliephttps://www.instagram.com/theintentionaliep
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  E55. 3 Benefits of Sending a Draft IEP Home Before the Meeting 18.05.2026 11min

  IEP meetings can quickly become overwhelming when families are seeing everything for the first time at the table. In this episode, Stephanie breaks down why draft IEPs are one of the most effective tools for creating smoother meetings, stronger collaboration, and more meaningful parent participation.In this episode, Stephanie:• Explains what a draft IEP actually is and why it should be used as a conversation starter, not a final decision• Teaches the difference between collaboration and predetermination under IDEA• Gives simple tips for implementing draft IEPs in a way that supports both families and school teamsDraft IEPs may seem like a small step, but they can completely change the tone and effectiveness of the IEP process.Stephanie reminds listeners that when families are given time to review, reflect, and participate before the meeting, collaboration becomes stronger and student support becomes more intentional.Not a member? Join Today — you can get 50% off your first month of membership https://products.theintentionaliep.com/tii-membership-50off1stmonth-podcast/For more information, check out more of Stephanie's resources:https://www.theintentionaliep.com/the-intentional-iep-book/https://www.theintentionaliep.com/https://www.facebook.com/theintentionaliephttps://www.instagram.com/theintentionaliep
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  E54. Fading Prompts + the Prompt Hierarchy: What Every Special Ed Teacher Needs to Know 11.05.2026 11min

  If a student can only complete a task when an adult steps in, are we teaching the skill… or teaching dependence? In this episode, Stephanie is unpacking the prompt hierarchy, prompt dependency, and what it actually looks like to fade support in a way that builds real student independence.With practical examples and easy-to-apply strategies, this episode will have you rethinking the way prompting shows up in your classroom.In this episode, Stephanie:• Breaks down the different levels of the prompt hierarchy and what they look like in real classrooms• Shares simple ways to start fading prompts without overwhelming students• Explains how teams can work together to reduce prompt dependency and build student independence over timeIf you’ve ever had a student who relies heavily on adult support, this episode will give you practical ways to step back intentionally and create more opportunities for independence throughout the school day.Download the Free Prompt Hierarchy Poster hereNot a member? Join Today — you can get 50% off your first month of membership https://products.theintentionaliep.com/tii-membership-50off1stmonth-podcast/For more information, check out more of Stephanie's resources:https://www.theintentionaliep.com/the-intentional-iep-book/https://www.theintentionaliep.com/https://www.facebook.com/theintentionaliephttps://www.instagram.com/theintentionaliep
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  E53. From Control to Connection: A Trauma-Informed Roadmap for Transforming Student Behavior 05.05.2026 32min

  If student behavior has been leaving you feeling stuck, this episode is one to lean into. This conversation challenges the way we’ve been taught to think about discipline and offers a shift that actually supports long-term change, not just quick fixes.In this episode, Stephanie is joined by Nathan Maynard to break down what it really means to be trauma-informed and how moving from control to connection can completely change how we respond to behavior.Why fear-based discipline often escalates behavior and what to do insteadHow to tell the difference between a student who won’t comply and one who can’t regulateWhat it looks like to build proactive systems and move from power struggles to collaborative problem-solvingIf you’ve been looking for a more effective, realistic way to support behavior, this episode will give you a strong place to start.
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  E52. What If a Student Needs a Different LRE? 27.04.2026 11min

  LRE conversations can feel heavy, especially when you’re trying to figure out if a student’s current placement is actually working. This episode walks through how to approach those decisions with clarity and confidence so they’re based on what the student truly needs.In this episode, Stephanie breaks down what Least Restrictive Environment really means and how to know when a change might be necessary. She walks through the LRE continuum, the data you actually need, and how to have these conversations with your team in a way that feels proactive, not reactive.The key signs a student may need a different LRE, from lack of progress to behavioral data and regulationWhat data to gather before making any placement decisions so you’re not relying on opinionHow to approach LRE conversations with families and teams using clarity, support, and flexibilityChanging a student’s placement isn’t a step backward. It’s a response to what they need right now and a chance to create a setting where they can actually grow.Not a member? Join Today — you can get 50% off your first month of membership https://products.theintentionaliep.com/tii-membership-50off1stmonth-podcast/For more information, check out more of Stephanie's resources:https://www.theintentionaliep.com/the-intentional-iep-book/https://www.theintentionaliep.com/https://www.facebook.com/theintentionaliephttps://www.instagram.com/theintentionaliep
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  E51. Labels Don’t Equal Placement: Making Meaningful LRE Decisions That Match Student Needs 20.04.2026 40min

  If you’ve ever walked out of an LRE meeting knowing the decision didn’t fully make sense, this episode is for you.Whitney and Stephanie get into the side of placement conversations people don’t always say out loud. A diagnosis should never be the reason a student ends up in a certain setting, but it happens all the time. And so does the “we’ve always done it this way” thinking.They talk through what it actually looks like to adjust minutes, why data and the IEP should be leading the conversation, and how quickly things fall apart when decisions stop being individualized. What worked for one student does not automatically work for another.This is the kind of conversation that challenges how these decisions are being made and what needs to change.Follow Whitney: @rootedinresourcePurchase her Book: Everyone Learns Differently Not a member? Join Today — you can get 50% off your first month of membership https://products.theintentionaliep.com/tii-membership-50off1stmonth-podcast/For more information, check out more of Stephanie's resources:https://www.theintentionaliep.com/the-intentional-iep-book/https://www.theintentionaliep.com/https://www.facebook.com/theintentionaliephttps://www.instagram.com/theintentionaliep
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  E50. IEP Amendements 101 13.04.2026 11min

  IEP amendments are one of the most effective ways to make timely changes to a student’s plan without waiting for the annual meeting. In this episode, Stephanie breaks down how to use amendments to keep IEPs accurate, responsive, and aligned with what students actually need.In this episode, Stephanie covers:what an IEP amendment is and how it workswhen an amendment should be used instead of waiting for a full meetingsix common scenarios where amendments are appropriatewhat can and cannot be amendedbest practices for documentation, communication, and complianceIf you’ve ever questioned whether to wait or make a change now, this episode will give you the clarity to move forward. Save it for your next IEP review or share it with your team, and explore The Intentional IEP Membership for more support and resources.Not a member? Join Today — you can get 50% off your first month of membership https://products.theintentionaliep.com/tii-membership-50off1stmonth-podcast/For more information, check out more of Stephanie's resources:https://www.theintentionaliep.com/the-intentional-iep-book/https://www.theintentionaliep.com/https://www.facebook.com/theintentionaliephttps://www.instagram.com/theintentionaliep