I am absolutely thrilled to announce that I will be teaching the brand new Special Education Part 1 course for Ontario Teachers. In collaboration with some incredible Educators - we developed Part 1, 2, and Specialist so that these three courses seamlessly connect, build on each other and support Candidates (Teachers) where they are in their Careers, whether a new teacher or an experienced teacher looking for leadership.
This isn't just another course update; it's a complete transformation, meticulously reimagined and rewritten to empower Ontario teachers in today's dynamic educational landscape. We're all aware that the past few years have brought significant changes in education, including new curricula in health and physical education, math, and language arts.
But that's not all.
There have been crucial updates in policies and guides focusing on equity, inclusive education, culturally relevant and responsive pedagogy (CRRP), and Universal Design for Learning (UDL). This course is designed to not just acknowledge these changes but to deeply integrate them into its core. What excites me most about this course is how current it is. We will dive into modern tools and technologies that are reshaping the way we teach and learn. Expect to explore innovative practices that are theoretical and highly applicable in your classrooms.
But there's more – this course isn't just about absorbing information; it's about experiencing it.
Participants (Teachers) have opportunities for differentiation, working in partnerships, and benefiting from flexible timelines. This approach ensures the course adapts to your unique learning style and professional needs. As an educator, my goal is to not just teach but to inspire. This course is more than a learning experience; it's a journey toward becoming a more effective, empathetic, and empowered educator in Special Education. Whether you're new to this field or looking to refresh your skills, this course promises to be a game-changer in your professional development.
Orientation
(3-4 days, getting familiar with course, content, instructor, and fellow participants)
Module 1 - What is Special Education?
Special Education in Ontario; Ontario Human Rights Legislation, AODA; Human Rights
Module 2 – Our Students ALL Matter
Culturally Responsive Pedagogy; Behavioural Exceptionality; Communication Exceptionality’ Intellectual Exceptionality; Physical Exceptionality; Multiple
Module 3 - School for All, Learning for All
Support staff for students; Learning Environments; Physical Spaces and Accessibility for all; UDL look like in the school; Extra Curricular
Module 4 – Inclusive Program
Essential Conditions for Learning; Student Information and Student Records; Role of the EA in a Classroom; Classroom Health and Safety; SEL and Wellness in the Classroom
Module 5 - Supporting Transitions
K-12, Subject, Classroom Absences
Module 6 - Literacy for ALL
Understanding Struggling Readers/Writers and Early Identification
Module 7 - Assessment that Works for ALL
Growing Success, Triangulation, UDL
Module 8 – Technology
Assistive Technology and UDL; Remote
Module 9 - Inclusive Program Design,
THE IEP, Goal Setting, and Parent Involvement; Meetings; Pedagogies, Play-Based, Minecraft, Lego; Trauma and Wellness; Low Floor High Ceiling -Student voice and choice
Module 10 - Learning Portfolio
Course Reflection and Final Thoughts
So, are you ready to join me on this exciting journey? Let's embrace these changes together and make a difference in the lives of our students. Welcome to the new era of Special Education training in Ontario!