"Fast 15" with Champions of Special Education

Are you ready to transform the world of special education with just 15 minutes of your time? Join me, Barb Beck, in this new and exciting journey, called "Fast 15 with Champions of Special Education", where we aim to provide you with quick tools, effective strategies, and an incredible community of educators. This podcast promises to be your ultimate go-to resource for impactful strategi...

Imagine navigating a world you're unable to see - sounds scary, doesn't it? Tune in as we unravel the mysteries and challenges of Optic Nerve Hypoplasia (ONH), the leading cause of childhood blindness. Our special guests, Joanna and her remarkable 13-year-old daughter, Chrissa, take us on their incredible journey of living with ONH. They reveal the power of community support through a Fa...

Ever wondered what happens when the caps and gowns come off and the real world beckons? We promise a riveting exploration into life post-graduation as Darian, Sam, and Koa share their experiences, aspirations, and internships. Listen to Koa as he talks about his work in a greenhouse, and Sam as he relives the joy of his multiple internships, particularly his favorite one at a plant nursery. Discov...

Prepare to be inspired by Lori, a special education veteran with 40 years of experience. As we traverse her journey from being a teacher to an administrator, Lori offers us a glimpse into the transformative power of technology in special education. Despite the strides made, Lori points out the barriers that still exist in accessing technology and the importance of backing teachers in their classro...

Have you ever stopped to consider the incredible strength that lies in embracing our individuality and the unique interests that define who we are? Join us for this inspiring conversation with Andrew, one of our launch leaders, and his devoted mom, Annette. Their journey is a testament to the power of personal interests in shaping our lives and how our unique personal qualities and interests can b...

Welcome to this heartwarming and inspiring episode of the Launch Buddies Podcast.  Get ready to embark on a journey of love, determination, and advocacy as this mom, Jeanette share the story of her incredible son, living with autism, and the challenges and triumphs experienced along the way.  Today, we're shedding light on the importance of building a strong support system, the power of early...

We had an incredible conversation with Suzanne Fitzgerald, CEO and founder of SDES and the creator of the comprehensive Functional Academics curriculum.   Her curriculum has made a significant impact on students with disabilities nationwide. Suzanne shares her journey from working with children and adults with disabilities to becoming a special education teacher, and eventually developing a compre...

What happens when you combine 40 years of teaching experience, a strong sense of humor, and a true passion for connecting with students? You get our special guest today, Aunt Linda! With an incredible journey from kindergarten teacher to literacy specialist, Linda shares her wisdom on building trust, fostering connections, and celebrating diversity in the classroom. Listen in as we discuss the pow...

What brings a smile to your face and warms your heart? Join us as we celebrate the power of joyful connections in our lives, with our Launch Buddies sharing the things that make them truly happy. From favorite shows to hobbies and activities, you'll discover how these simple pleasures can make life brighter and more fulfilling. Together, we dive into the joys of hobbies and interests, explori...

Remember how exciting and nerve-wracking it was to start your first job? Join us as we hear heartwarming stories from our amazing Launch Buddies, Koa, Jay, and others, as they share their supported employment journeys and the invaluable role of job coaches in their lives. You'll be inspired by Koa's experience as an MC for the Adults Transitioning to Independence graduation ceremony, whi...

Welcome to The Launch Buddies Podcast, where we celebrate the power of connection, self-expression, and building relationships. In this episode, our charismatic host Darien, along with co-hosts Barb and Andrew, lead a lively discussion about sharing personal preferences, finding common interests, and embracing the joy of connecting with others. Join us as we dive into the importance of exploring a...

Interested in Supported Employment and College Journeys for youth with disabilities?  If so, you are in the right place!   In this episode, our hosts Darien, Barb, and Andrew delve into the exciting and sometimes challenging journey from school to the world of work for young adults with disabilities. They are joined by some incredible buddies who share their unique perspectives and personal storie...

Our Buddies discuss their PERSONAL STORIES from high school special education.  In this special episode of "The Launch Buddies Podcast," join Barbara Beck (Host) as she is joined by her Co-Hosts, Darien and Andrew, for an intimate and candid conversation about their personal stories and experiences in high school special education classes, as well as their journeys beyond. Together, they...

In this inspiring episode of The Launch Buddies Podcast, hosts Barbara Beck, Darien Watson, and Andrew dive into the topic of dreams, aspirations, and making a positive impact in the world. They are joined by fellow Launch Buddy, Sam, who shares his recent accomplishment of securing a job and the importance of practicing interview skills. The hosts discuss their own dreams, including Andrew's...

Join us for the latest episode of The Launch Buddies Podcast: Self-Advocate Voices from High School and Beyond! In this engaging conversation, our buddies Darien, Andrew, Sam, and Ari open up about their favorite things in life and the challenges they face while navigating the world with disabilities. If you want to see the worksheet we used and use it for yourself, CHECK IT OUT! https://www.teach...

Show Notes: Welcome to Episode #1 of "The Launch Buddies" podcast, produced by our media production class! Join us as we embark on a journey of empowerment, inclusion, and self-advocacy through the power of social stories. If you want to use the same template we used to prep for this episode, CHECK IT OUT HERE:  https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Key-2-My-Personal-Story-Interact...