"Fast 15" with Champions of Special Education

Discover how a former coach turned his playbook towards revolutionizing special education with technology. Joe Brazier from Microsoft's K-12 education team joins us to share his inspirational journey from the sidelines to the forefront of educational innovation. His story is one of unexpected turns, leading to a profound impact on how educators utilize tech tools to empower students with disabilities. Listen to Joe's insights on data-driven decision-making, and how it's changing the educational landscape for the better, ensuring clear communication and consistent outcomes across the board.
In an education system where one size rarely fits all, Joe walks us through his experience in the trenches of special education, evolving from analog tapes to the magic of iPads and HoloLens devices. His collaboration with Microsoft Education has not only dismantled barriers but has also played a crucial role in destigmatizing assistive technology. This chat is packed with compelling examples of how Microsoft initiatives are crafting personalized learning experiences and fostering an inclusive environment where every student can excel.
Wrapping up, Joe leaves us with powerful insights on the future of educational technology. From leveraging universal design principles to advocating for gradual adoption of new tech, Joe's perspective highlights the transformative potential of accessibility tools. His voice is a rallying cry for a future where every learner, regardless of ability, can navigate their educational journey with independence and success. Don't miss our next episode where Joe Frazier will take us through selecting the right technological aids to enrich the lives of students with disabilities.

Support the show

Barbara Beck is the host of the FAST 15 Podcast. She is a highly dedicated Disability Advocate and Special Education Consultant specializing in IEP Transition Services. Barbara has an extensive background as a special education teacher spanning nearly 30 years. She has dedicated her career to empowering transition-age youth and fostering positive post-school outcomes.

Barbara's expertise lies in providing comprehensive support and guidance to students with disabilities, ensuring their successful transition from school to adult life. She possesses a deep understanding of secondary services and possesses the skills to develop tailored strategies that maximize individual potential.

For more information and resources on special education school-to-adulthood transition planning and independent living, visit www.mykeyplans.com. Join us on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and discussions about special education, inclusion, and disability advocacy. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn and use #IEPLaunchpadPodcast to join the conversation. Thank you for tuning in to the IEP Launchpad Podcast! 🎧🎙️#IDD #teaching #specialed #specialneeds #InclusionMatters #DisabilityAdvocacy #EmpowerVoices #edtech, #education #edtech, #teachers

🙏 Special Thanks to Our Sponsors
A heartfelt thank you to our generous sponsors, Specially Designed Education Services, publishers of The Functional Academics Program.
🎙️ Episode Highlights: Breaking Barriers in Special Education

Hey there, educators! Welcome to another inspiring episode of The FAST 15. Today, we're diving into an uplifting conversation with Lisa Huffmaster, an incredible advocate and specialist in inclusive education. Lisa's journey began over two decades ago as a special educator, and her passion for creating meaningful opportunities for students with diverse needs shines through.

✨The Spark of Inspiration
Lisa shares her personal inspiration for entering the world of special education—her twin sister with Down syndrome. This heartfelt connection fueled her commitment to transforming the educational experience for students with unique abilities.

🔍 The Missing Piece: Assessment and Progress Monitoring
Lisa emphasizes the importance of assessments and progress monitoring in creating effective specially designed instruction. Without understanding a student's unique needs, it's like trying to teach algebra without knowing what the number eight is. Let's drill down, find the missing pieces, and empower our students with tailored support.

🤝 Bridging the Gap in General Ed Settings
Discover how functional academics are making waves in general education settings. Lisa shares insights into collaboration, communication, and creating inclusive learning environments. It's about identifying strengths, addressing needs, and ensuring every student's voice is heard at the IEP table.

🌟 Work-Based Learning: Real-World Success Stories
Lisa's involvement in work-based learning programs, like the PEAK (Panther, Employment, Action, and Knowledge) program, showcases the power of hands-on experiences. From running a student-owned coffee business to designing T-shirts, these initiatives provide real-world skills, community inclusion, and job opportunities for young adults.

🚀 Encouragement for New Educators
Lisa's advice for new educators? Take a tour through the entire educational journey, from kindergarten to transition. Witnessing the progress and celebrating small victories can be incredibly motivating. Remember, it's about taking baby steps and making a lasting impact on students' lives.

🌐 Community Connection: Church-Based Initiatives
Explore Lisa's con

Support the show

Barbara Beck is the host of the FAST 15 Podcast. She is a highly dedicated Disability Advocate and Special Education Consultant specializing in IEP Transition Services. Barbara has an extensive background as a special education teacher spanning nearly 30 years. She has dedicated her career to empowering transition-age youth and fostering positive post-school outcomes.

Barbara's expertise lies in providing comprehensive support and guidance to students with disabilities, ensuring their successful transition from school to adult life. She possesses a deep understanding of secondary services and possesses the skills to develop tailored strategies that maximize individual potential.

For more information and resources on special education school-to-adulthood transition planning and independent living, visit www.mykeyplans.com. Join us on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and discussions about special education, inclusion, and disability advocacy. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn and use #IEPLaunchpadPodcast to join the conversation. Thank you for tuning in to the IEP Launchpad Podcast! 🎧🎙️#IDD #teaching #specialed #specialneeds #InclusionMatters #DisabilityAdvocacy #EmpowerVoices #edtech, #education #edtech, #teachers

The "Fast 15" podcast is sponsored by Specially Designed Education Services (SDES) and the Functional Academics Program. Check out their amazing work here: www.sdesworks.com
What could be more delightful than pulling out your most hilarious, festive, and downright ugly holiday sweater? That's how we kick off today's podcast, with a nostalgic trip down Ugly Sweater Day lane. We unwrap the origins of this absurd yet endearing tradition and even share a few of our own cringeworthy sweater thoughts and ideas.
But this holiday isn't just about the laughs; it's about the sense of community and the spirit of giving. We reflect on personal traditions, the joy of the holiday season, and the heartwarming ways we contribute to our communities during the most wonderful time of the year.
Switching from the garish to the gracious, we usher in a heartfelt discussion on the essence of kindness. With host Barb Beck, Andrew shares his experiences and thoughts on the profound impact of small acts of kindness.
As a community of listeners, we're not just here for the chuckles; we're here to inspire and uplift each other. So, I encourage you to sprinkle a little kindness in your world - it can make a world of difference. As we wrap up, remember that each of us holds the power to make the holiday season a little brighter for others. As always, thank you for being part of this journey and remember, no act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted.

Support the show

Barbara Beck is the host of the FAST 15 Podcast. She is a highly dedicated Disability Advocate and Special Education Consultant specializing in IEP Transition Services. Barbara has an extensive background as a special education teacher spanning nearly 30 years. She has dedicated her career to empowering transition-age youth and fostering positive post-school outcomes.

Barbara's expertise lies in providing comprehensive support and guidance to students with disabilities, ensuring their successful transition from school to adult life. She possesses a deep understanding of secondary services and possesses the skills to develop tailored strategies that maximize individual potential.

For more information and resources on special education school-to-adulthood transition planning and independent living, visit www.mykeyplans.com. Join us on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and discussions about special education, inclusion, and disability advocacy. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn and use #IEPLaunchpadPodcast to join the conversation. Thank you for tuning in to the IEP Launchpad Podcast! 🎧🎙️#IDD #teaching #specialed #specialneeds #InclusionMatters #DisabilityAdvocacy #EmpowerVoices #edtech, #education #edtech, #teachers

Shout out to our incredible sponsor, Specially Designed Education Services - Functional Academics (SDESworks.com)

What if you could turn a perceived weakness into a strength, transforming it into a unique gift to offer your students? Welcome to a world where every student thrives, a universe sculpted by understanding, empathy, and mutual respect. Your hosts share an inspiring story of Sarah, a visually impaired special education teacher, and her student Emily, who navigates the world with the same challenge. This episode is a testament to the power of harnessing individuality in the classroom. We unearth strategies to work with visually impaired students and tips to create an inclusive environment.
Imagine a classroom where assistive technology is not an afterthought, but a key component of the learning process. We delve into resources designed specifically to foster this inclusivity, shining a spotlight on the tool JAWS and the online library Bookshare. These tools are instrumental in creating dynamic learning spaces for individuals with print disabilities. We encourage you, our listeners, to keep this conversation alive, push the boundaries of innovation, and champion for a special education system where every student is celebrated. So, join us in this journey of empowerment, acceptance, and resilience.

Support the show

Barbara Beck is the host of the FAST 15 Podcast. She is a highly dedicated Disability Advocate and Special Education Consultant specializing in IEP Transition Services. Barbara has an extensive background as a special education teacher spanning nearly 30 years. She has dedicated her career to empowering transition-age youth and fostering positive post-school outcomes.

Barbara's expertise lies in providing comprehensive support and guidance to students with disabilities, ensuring their successful transition from school to adult life. She possesses a deep understanding of secondary services and possesses the skills to develop tailored strategies that maximize individual potential.

For more information and resources on special education school-to-adulthood transition planning and independent living, visit www.mykeyplans.com. Join us on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and discussions about special education, inclusion, and disability advocacy. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn and use #IEPLaunchpadPodcast to join the conversation. Thank you for tuning in to the IEP Launchpad Podcast! 🎧🎙️#IDD #teaching #specialed #specialneeds #InclusionMatters #DisabilityAdvocacy #EmpowerVoices #edtech, #education #edtech, #teachers

Welcome to a festive ride with "Fast 15" where we jingle all the way through December's educational maze. As your guide, Barb Beck, I promise to help you tread the thin ice between holiday anticipation and classroom objectives, ensuring productivity without feeling swamped. We're also taking a detour to celebrate some key cultural milestones like National Pie Day, Special Education Day, International Persons with Disabilities Day, and surprisingly, World Soil Day.
This episode comes with a double treat as we get insights from three extraordinary guests. Darien, the strong voice of our Launch Buddies class, pays a heartfelt tribute to the tireless special education teachers. Bryce, a veteran of our 18 to 21 program, shares his journey of self-advocacy and independence and Sam highlights his journey with his artwork and classes in high school that were successfully supported by amazing paraeducators. Their narratives not only highlight the transformative power of special education but also inspire us to continually support the unique needs of every student. Join us for this festive feast of inspiring dialogues, expert insights, and practical ideas that can revolutionize your classroom.
00:00 Introduction and Greetings

00:22 Appreciation for Special Education Day

00:46 Celebrating International Persons with Disabilities Day

01:07 National Pie Day Celebration and Discussion

01:39 The Importance of Baking Skills

03:00 Nutrition and Moderation

04:02 Shout Out to Special Education Teachers

04:58 Conclusion and Farewell

Support the show

Barbara Beck is the host of the FAST 15 Podcast. She is a highly dedicated Disability Advocate and Special Education Consultant specializing in IEP Transition Services. Barbara has an extensive background as a special education teacher spanning nearly 30 years. She has dedicated her career to empowering transition-age youth and fostering positive post-school outcomes.

Barbara's expertise lies in providing comprehensive support and guidance to students with disabilities, ensuring their successful transition from school to adult life. She possesses a deep understanding of secondary services and possesses the skills to develop tailored strategies that maximize individual potential.

For more information and resources on special education school-to-adulthood transition planning and independent living, visit www.mykeyplans.com. Join us on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and discussions about special education, inclusion, and disability advocacy. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn and use #IEPLaunchpadPodcast to join the conversation. Thank you for tuning in to the IEP Launchpad Podcast! 🎧🎙️#IDD #teaching #specialed #specialneeds #InclusionMatters #DisabilityAdvocacy #EmpowerVoices #edtech, #education #edtech, #teachers