A Special Education Teacher, Administrator and Lawyer walk into a bar....all you ever wanted to know about special education

Listen in as Angela, Robin and Abby discuss a troubling new phenomenon - changes to key aspects of the regulations that determine where a person with a disability can and should receive services. For over 25 years, US policy has favored community based living and supports for people with disabilities. Guided by the… Read more

Sadly, things are getting spooky at the Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services (OSERS) and the leadership vacuum at the Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP) isn't looking much better. Listen in as Robin, Angela and Abby break down the recent leadership changes and underlying political… Read more

Listen in as Robin and Abby discuss the role of parent advocacy in the Team decision making process. Sparked by an editorial in The 74 titled: Why Access to Special Education Depends Too Much on Parents, Robin and Abby unpack the dynamics that race, class and English language facility can have on outcomes for… Read more

This September, Robin joined two amazing colleagues, Elizabeth Hamblet and Kelley Challen, as they wrote an article about key Transition (14 -22) skill development. The article is featured in the September 2026 journal of Teaching Exceptional Children the leading journal of the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC).… Read more

Welcome to Season 7! We are so glad to be back and to share information about communication and ways to access support as we kick off the school year. Facilitated IEP's are a great way to support parents and school based team members in completing the process to generate a complete IEP for a student if the process has… Read more

Thanks for listening to our summer pod!! If you want to read the legal brief directly from Perry Z. - here is a link: Perry Zirkel's July 2026 legal update Here are the book's Robin is reading this summer.... Blindspot: Hidden Biases of Good People by Mahzarin R. Banaji (Author), Anthony G. Greenwald (Author) The… Read more

Thank you for listening in this year! This week if our final week of Season 6. LIsten in as Robin, Angela and Abby look back and ahead to key topics in the world of inclusive public schools. Have a great summer all! Please tell us how you found us by completing this survey Email us at ASTALPodcast@gmail.com Follow us… Read more

Listen in as Robin, Angela and Abby interview Brian Harrigan and Deb Westaway from the Parker Charter School in Harvard, MA about their experience with the provision of special education in charter schools. Learn more about Parker and their mission here. Www.theparkerschool.org Please tell us how you found us by… Read more

Listen in as Robin, Angela and Abby discuss a recent Chalkbeat article about the Newark, NJ public schools and the possible over evaluation of students who are English Language Learners. Please tell us how you found us by completing this survey Email us at ASTALPodcast@gmail.com Follow us on Instagram @astalpodcast

Tonight Abby and Robin talk about the science of Math. This movement is a response to ongoing math achievement gaps for all students and suggests that it is just as important to teach procedural fluency (Facts/algorithms) as it is conceptual understanding. There are many echos of the science of reading approach to be… Read more

Listen in when Angela, Robin and Abby discuss a recent article from the Harvard Business Review about the power of feedback - especially when it crosses a line and becomes destructive. When Feedback Crosses the Line Please tell us how you found us by completing this survey Email us at ASTALPodcast@gmail.com Follow us… Read more

Join Robin and Angela as they answer questions from listeners. Can you think of an out of the box acronym? Let us know! Please tell us how you found us by completing this survey Email us at ASTALPodcast@gmail.com Follow us on Instagram @astalpodcast

Listen in as Robin, Angela and Abby discuss an article from 2023 that questions the effectiveness of Inclusion. While it is a couple of years old, it has recently resurfaced in the discussion threads on the internet. Here is the 2023 article from the Hechinger Report. That article references a 2022 study about the… Read more

Listen in as Angela breaks down a very recent Massachusetts Appeals Court ruling (linked below) clarifying the "place regulation". This regulation informs how the location of services is determined for students who do not attend public school. Universal Hub article Ruling PDF Please tell us how you found us by… Read more

Listen in as Robin and Abby jump into the Homework Debate! The article below is a great resource for the research referenced in their convo! Is Homework Necessary? Please tell us how you found us by completing this survey Email us at ASTALPodcast@gmail.com Follow us on Instagram @astalpodcast

During this podcast, Robin and Angela talk about the nuanced depiction of Shane's autism in the hit show Heated Rivalry (HBO). Time article Thriveworks article Please tell us how you found us by completing this survey Email us at ASTALPodcast@gmail.com Follow us on Instagram @astalpodcast

Listen in as Angela leads us through the confusing world of Charter School special education compliance. This may end up being a two-parter!!! References: MADESE Charter School Info Webpage Charter School Accountability Information Massachusetts' Charter School Law Charter School Special Education requirements Please… Read more

We are burried in snow so resharing an episode from 2024 during which Robin and Angela discuss the TLC show Braylen Out Loud. This is timely because Tourette Syndrome is in the news this week... Read about it here: Vanity Fair's article NBC news Braylen's perspective on the BAFTAs Please tell us how you found us by… Read more

5 key stories to follow in 2026 Please tell us how you found us by completing this survey Email us at ASTALPodcast@gmail.com Follow us on Instagram @astalpodcast

Listen in as Robin and Abby interview David Tynes, the Director of the City of Cambridge, Massachusetts' Saturday Program (and many other things). David is also the Head Coach of the Cambridge Special Olympics Men's Basketball team, The Warriors. The Warriors have an 88 game winning streak and this year will represent… Read more

There's a different way of thinking about child development and how special education services fit in that turns the medical model upside down. Listen in as Robin and Abby discuss the Five F-Words and the model they represent. In 2011, Rosenbaum and Gorter published a paper titled: The "F-words" in childhood… Read more

Listen in as Robin, Angela and Abby take a spin in the way back machine all the way to 2002. That's when Cheryl Jorgensen and her colleagues at UNH wrote the Essential Best Practices in Inclusive Schools, Rappaport et. al 2002 (revised 2012), the manifesto of "look fors" in inclusive schools and classrooms. It is… Read more

Join Angela, Robin and Abby as they take a look at the factors courts and schools consider when determining effective progress. Spoiler: they are usually not the same! Here is the article written by Perry Zirkle and Mitchell Yell that was referenced during the pod. Please tell us how you found us by completing this… Read more

Have you seen this apple accessibility video? In our 1st episode back in season 6, Abby, Robin and Angela talk about the cool tools out there supporting students at the college level and if they are accommodations if they are universally available to everyone. AT resources by State. Here is the SETT Framework Robin… Read more

Listen in as Angela, Robin and Abby discuss two big dates in November and December - the actual 50th Birthday of the IDEA and National Inclusive Schools Week 2025. Here are some links related to both events and a link to help you identify who your local legislators are so you can send them an email reminding them… Read more

Last week Robin, Abby and Angela were live on NASET (National Association of Special Education Teachers)'s monthly webinar for a mini pod and Q&A. Here is the recording of that episode- enjoy! Check out their website and all of the resouces that come with membership. https://www.naset.com/ Please tell us how you found… Read more

Listen in as Angela, Robin and Abby discuss the new Massachusetts regulations redefining Time Out and Seclusion. For documents related to the discussion see the link here. Please tell us how you found us by completing this survey Email us at ASTALPodcast@gmail.com Follow us on Instagram @astalpodcast

Sometimes, people lose their cool in Team meetings!! Listen in while Angela, Robin and Abby discuss strategies you can use to manage these moments in real time, intervene beforehand so they don't happen at all and follow up if they do. Teachers and Parents are human beings and stress and anxiety can take over during… Read more

Sorry! We couldn't record this week, so please enjoy a repeat episode in which Robin and Angela discuss steps that can be taken when a student case starts to get litigous. We'll be back next week! Please tell us how you found us by completing this survey Email us at ASTALPodcast@gmail.com Follow us on Instagram… Read more

Listen in as Robin, Angela and Abby discuss Massachusetts' new Out of District Placement monitoring process and form. Here is a link to the newly shared form (September 2025) from the MADESE if you want to follow along. Please tell us how you found us by completing this survey Email us at ASTALPodcast@gmail.com Follow… Read more

X Listen in as Robin and Abby discuss common misconceptions about classroom management and behavioral support. These great ideas are based on a recent Eduptopia article "7 Classroom management mistakes and the research on how to fix them" which can be found HERE. Please tell us how you found us by completing this… Read more

Starting this September, Massachusetts has changed how it calculates the required days for the provision of an IEP. Join Abby, Robin and Angela as they discuss the recent changes to the 30/45 and annual IEP timelines. Special Education Policy Memo SY2024-2025 — 6 Please tell us how you found us by completing this… Read more

Join Robin, Abby and Angela as they discuss the importance of Class Jobs! Here are some traditional and unique ideas from this Edutopia Article. Please tell us how you found us by completing this survey Email us at ASTALPodcast@gmail.com Follow us on Instagram @astalpodcast

The IDEA requires that specially designed instruction be informed by research based methodologies. (E) supporting high-quality, intensive preservice preparation and professional development for all personnel who work with children with disabilities in order to ensure that such personnel have the skills and knowledge… Read more

Join Robin and Angela as they discuss the importance of the school handbook! Please tell us how you found us by completing this survey Email us at ASTALPodcast@gmail.com Follow us on Instagram @astalpodcast

Welcome to Season 6! Join Abby, Angela and Robin as they kick off season 6 by celebrating the upcoming 50th birthday of the IDEA (Nov. 2025!) Please tell us how you found us by completing this survey Email us at ASTALPodcast@gmail.com Follow us on Instagram @astalpodcast

Happy summer and best wishes to those teachers/families who are currently returning to school! Robin, Abby and Angela come together for a summer episode focusing on graduation guidance for students in MA on IEPs. MA DESE Graduation and Transition Memo- July 2025 Rethinking Graduation: What It Means for Students on… Read more

29 episodes later, this is the last episode of Season 5! Listen up as we preview some topics we're thinking about and share some summer updates. Thanks for being such loyal listeners. Have a wonderful wrap up to your school year and we'll be back in the fall for Season 6. Robin, Abby and Angela Please tell us how you… Read more

Listen in as Robin and Abby discuss the recent appointment of the new OSEP Director. Here is the company that designs products to help feel more grounded and in control (Calmware). Please tell us how you found us by completing this survey Email us at ASTALPodcast@gmail.com Follow us on Instagram @astalpodcast

Listen in as Robin, Angela and Abby discuss the recent wildly inaccurate, incendiary and harmful statements from US Health and Human Services (HHS) Director, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. about people with Autism. Click here to review the growing list of disability advocacy organizations that responded to his comments. The… Read more

Ever wonder why people stim? Or what you can do to support students if they are stigmatized by a particular stim? Robin, Angela and Abby break it down. Please tell us how you found us by completing this survey Email us at ASTALPodcast@gmail.com Follow us on Instagram @astalpodcast

Listen in as Robin and Abby discuss the weird and wonderful (potentially) world of A. I. adoption in public schools. Everything from the politics at the State level to individual teacher and student decision making is being impacted by this new development. MADESE web resources on AI Lots of Resources on AI Please… Read more

Join us while we speak with Erika Bare and Tiffany Burns about their book Connecting Through Conversation A playbooks for Talking with Students. Leveraging over forty years of combined experience, Erika and Tiffany are on a mission to empower every educator to transform student behavior and build a culture of… Read more

Prompting is a key component of specially designed instruction and is often misunderstood. Listen in as Robin, Angela and Abby discuss the pros and cons of prompting and the many nuances of the most commonly understood prompting hierarchy. For more resources on this topic check out:… Read more

There are always signs before a student case goes south...here are some tips from Angela and Robin your team can take to get things back on track. Please tell us how you found us by completing this survey Email us at ASTALPodcast@gmail.com Follow us on Instagram @astalpodcast

Happy International Down Syndrome Awareness Day (3/21/25). Join Robin, Abby and Angela as they talk about the 2025 campaign presented by CoorDown . No Decision Without Me- video World Down Syndrome Day- website Secondary Transition Docs- DESE/MA Please tell us how you found us by completing this survey Email us at… Read more

Link to the original complaint in Texas v. Becerra Link to the link to the Status Report updating the case. Plain Language Explainer from multiple disability advocacy groups Plain Language Explainer of Status Report from multiple disability advocacy groups. Link to mechanism to contact your Attorney General Please… Read more

Please tell us how you found us by completing this survey Email us at ASTALPodcast@gmail.com Follow us on Instagram @astalpodcast

For more information about the articles Robin and Abby discuss in this episode check out: EdWeek February 13th - What Educators Need to Know About Dyslexia—and Why It’s Not Something to ‘Fix’ ASCD blog February 2nd - Redefining the Science of Reading And Natalie Wexler's new book published by ASCD: Beyond the Science… Read more

Join Robin and Angela as they discuss the TLC show Baylen Out Loud, which follows a young adult with Tourette's Syndrome and her quest for independence. Please tell us how you found us by completing this survey Email us at ASTALPodcast@gmail.com Follow us on Instagram @astalpodcast

Tonight Abby, Angela and Robin answer a listener question from a Principal who is struggling with 1 or a few but mightygroup of students who are using up all the school resources. Please tell us how you found us by completing this survey Email us at ASTALPodcast@gmail.com Follow us on Instagram @astalpodcast

Angela was asked to be a guest on Marisha Mets Podcast: Special Ed Leaders: Unplugged. to speak about Due Process. The full guide on the website is also up here and the YouTube video is here. In the world of special education, due process is a cornerstone for protecting the rights of students with disabilities. At its… Read more

In the next months, each individual School District in Massachusetts will have to formally adopt requirements that confer a diploma. Listen in as the girls discuss the considerations inherent in this process and check out your local District's School Committee to find out more about what the local requirements in your… Read more

Join Robin while she listens to Angela review the Hingham decision: DALE and JENNIFER HARRIS, as parents and next friend of their minor son, RNH vs. Hingham Schools (defendents named specifically, Town of Hingham and School Committee) Please tell us how you found us by completing this survey Email us at… Read more

Join Robin, Abby and Angela as they run through hot topics for 2025 and potential podcast topics. If you have an idea or a question, please reach out to them via email at astalpodcast@gmail.com Please tell us how you found us by completing this survey Email us at ASTALPodcast@gmail.com Follow us on Instagram… Read more

In this Thanksgiving episode, Abby, Robin, and Angela take a moment to pause, reflect, and share what they’re most thankful for in their professional and personal lives. We are on a break until Jan. 2025- have a great holiday season! Please tell us how you found us by completing this survey Email us at… Read more

After multiple requests, Robin and Abby begin the transition convo. It's too expansive to cover in 1 episode so this is just the beginning! Do you want to be a transition specialist? Autism goes to college Intelligent Lives MA DESE Secondary Transition Please tell us how you found us by completing this survey Email us… Read more

Question 2: Elimination of MCAS as High School Graduation Requirement passed in Massachusetts- so what does that mean for students? Listen to Robin, Abby and Angela as they review the DRAFT Q&A provided by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. Please tell us how you found us by completing this survey… Read more

Ever wonder how to support students who are home or hospital bound? Join Abby, Robin and Angela as they discuss how to provide educational services to students who are confined to the home or a hospital setting. MA DESE Q&A (603 CMR 28.03(3)(c) Physician's Affirmation of Need for Temporary Home or Hospital Education… Read more

Listen in while Angela, Robin and Abby discuss a complicated and emotionally challenging part of the special education legal landscape - when a Handbook/Code of Conduct infraction IS or IS NOT a manifestation of a student's disability. Legal reference: 34 CFR §§300.530-300-536 For the flowchart mentioned in the… Read more

Join Robin, Abby and Angela as they review the importance of the role of the general education teacher in IEP meetings. Please tell us how you found us by completing this survey Email us at ASTALPodcast@gmail.com Follow us on Instagram @astalpodcast

In this episode Abby, Angela and Robin interview Kathleen Browning, a former SLP and current Early Childhood Program Director to learn more about the amazing world of Integrated Preschool. Please tell us how you found us by completing this survey Email us at ASTALPodcast@gmail.com Follow us on Instagram @astalpodcast

Listen in as Angela, Robin and Abby discuss what they are thinking and how they respond when someone in a meeting makes an unexpected statement or decision. Check out the resource for developing comprehensive evaluations from the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction here. Please tell us how you found us by… Read more

Listen in as the girls debate key concepts of Extended School Year from how the determination of eligibility gets made, to the goals and mission of ESY services, all the way to the nuts and bolts of what kinds of programs for how many days and hours. We're referencing the MADESE ESY Q and A in its most recent form and… Read more

Join Robin and Abby as they geek out on our field's research base (and sometimes, lack thereof). Listen in to a discussion of High Leverage Practices (HLP's); the 22 skills that we (sort of) have all agreed a special education teacher must consolidate to be effective in the role. For more information and to read the… Read more

This November Massachusetts voters will determine the fate of keeping the MCAS exam as a high school graduation requirement. We had a longer debate last year when it was on the ballot as a citizen petition (Oct. 13, 2023 episode). This week we revisit the topic. We also plug Unified Sports as people begin thinking… Read more

We're just getting back into the swing of things so join us as we preview some upcoming topics and catch up. Hope everyone's school year is off to a great start! Please tell us how you found us by completing this survey Email us at ASTALPodcast@gmail.com Follow us on Instagram @astalpodcast

We're interrupting our summer to record our response to a June 2024, 1st Circuit court decision regarding the case: L.M. v. Town of Middleborough that affirms a Massachusetts school’s decision to forbid a middle school student from wearing two T-shirts to school that say, “There are only two genders” and “There are… Read more

Can you believe we've uploaded 100 episodes?! We're ending Season 4 celebrating our 100th episode and choosing our favs from each season. Please go back and listen to those if you started mid-way through our show. Here is a list of the top 20 downloads if you want listener favorites. We've already planning for season… Read more

James Lange is a CPA/Attorney and the author of 10 best selling financial books that help IRA and retirement plan owners get the most of what they've got. The Wall Street Journal has endorsed Jim's tax and estate planning strategies 36 times! Jim's daughter, Erica, has a disability. Jim's expertise with Roth IRA… Read more

Listen in on the debate about the uses and misuses of IQ testing for students with disabilities and students of color. Robin, Angela and Abby dissect a recent article from the Hechinger report which can be found HERE titled: How flawed IQ tests prevent kids from getting help in school School psychologists are relying… Read more

Many of you have seen the ad #Assume I Can (and Maybe I Will) created by the organization CoorDown. Robin, Abby and Angela talk about the power of this campaign on the social inclusion movement. Check out some of the previous campaigns created by this organization (Esp. The Hiring Chain). Please tell us how you found… Read more

In this (almost) solo episode, Abby analyzes a new article that was published on March 6, 2024: America’s Most Popular Autism Therapy May Not Work — and May Seriously Harm Patients’ Mental Health A Perspective From Today's ABA- Dr. Hanley BCBA Ethics code Please tell us how you found us by completing this survey Email… Read more

Join Robin, Abby and Angela as they review the TV show Love On the Spectrum (Season 2 - Netflix) Tait's Take (youtube) The Color of Autism Foundation (mentioned on Tait's Take) Important because people of color tend to be diagnosed later in life due to stigma, biased testing protocols, medical racism etc.) Please tell… Read more

Listen in on the discussion with Elizabeth C. Hamblet the author of 7 Steps to College Success: A Pathway for Students with Disabilities. 7 Steps is a well regarded book in its third edition that provides important common sense advice for adult students and their family supporters as they navigate through the college… Read more

Listen in as Angela, Robin and Abby discuss a recent request from several members of the Brockton School Committee for the Governor of Massachusetts to send the National Guard to Brockton High School. As you can imagine this has attracted a LOT of attention. Here are some articles related to the request and how the… Read more

You asked for it......this episode is alllllllllll Angela! Join us as we break down Endrew v. Douglas and what it means for FAPE. Endrew v Douglas The USDOE considers Endrew to be such an important case they have devoted significant resources to unpacking the decision - you can find the whole discussion here: USDOE… Read more

Listen in as Angela, Robin and Abby sort through the similarities and differences between PTO and School Sponsored activities. Learn more about what needs to be accommodated and what does not based on the ADA and special education compliance requirements. Here is a sample letter to notify your PTO of their… Read more

The Science of Reading Progresses: Communicating Advances Beyond the Simple View of Reading Please tell us how you found us by completing this survey Email us at ASTALPodcast@gmail.com Follow us on Instagram @astalpodcast

The decision to move to a "functional curriculum" is fraught - for teachers, specialists, administrators and especially, for parents. During this episode, Robin, Abby and Angela consider ways to help teams discuss moving from an academic track to a functional academic track. Pros and Cons abound and communication can… Read more

Welcome to the back end of season 4! Join Abby, Angela and Robin as they review how to handle the most common IEP rejections. The editing program was a little wonky this week- sorry! Also Angela's ending was too good to edit :) Please tell us how you found us by completing this survey Email us at… Read more

It's time for our mid-season break! But first, who loves those fun Facebook polls? We do- so get to know us a little better. Be back in 2024! Please tell us how you found us by completing this survey Email us at ASTALPodcast@gmail.com Follow us on Instagram @astalpodcast

Tune in this week to hear Robin, Angela and Abby respond to a listener question about how to work with professional advocates. The discussion ranges from the logistics and details of how to incorporate an advocate into the dialogue to the emotions and feelings that advocacy can raise in school staff. Please tell us… Read more

During this episode, Robin and Angela talk about how to manage severe food allergies in school. MA DESE guidance FAACT- 504 guidance Please tell us how you found us by completing this survey Email us at ASTALPodcast@gmail.com Follow us on Instagram @astalpodcast

Join Robin, Abby and Angela as they discuss emergency removals and the latest discipline stats from the Discipline and Behavior Blog Series from the OSEP website. Discipline and Behavior -Blog Series Discipline Dear Colleague Letter (2022) 5 Action Steps To Reduce exclusionary discipline Resources (keep digging… Read more

The recent events in Israel left This week's episode is a reminder to listen to S2 Episodes 18 and 19 for tips on how to speak with students about difficult events. Talking to students about crises Planning ahead for emergencies Greater Good: How to talk with your child about the war in Gaza and Israel Please tell us… Read more

**sorry for the weird ending- editing got a little funky this week** In this episode Robin, Angela and Abby answer a listener question involving if services are tied to a specific disability, when is it a good idea to terminate speech services for a student with autism and how related services are provided in an… Read more

Join Abby, Robin and Angela as they discuss the Massachusetts high stakes competency exam required for a high school diploma (MCAS exam) with Laura Gillis , parent side special education attorney. There is a movement by parents and the MA Teacher's Union to end it as a diploma requirement while at the same time, DESE… Read more

Listen in as Robin, Angela and Abby discuss the protections and supports available for students who are experiencing Homelessness. They discuss the ins and outs of the Federal Law that governs this topic - The McKinney Vento Homeless Assistance Act. Guidance and Resources McKinney-Vento Homeless Education Assistance —… Read more

Check out the American Player’s Theater’s clip for Romeo and Juliet as "Unified Theater" Mass Dept of Ed’s web-based training resources for curriculum diversification https://www.doe.mass.edu/rlo/psm/civilrights-toolkit/index.html#/ Book Lists Galore!… Read more

A big part of safeguarding a Student and a Parent's rights is the provision of Prior Notice. Listen in as Angela, Robin and Abby debate and discuss when that notice is legally required and when it is just a very very very good idea. Please tell us how you found us by completing this survey Email us at… Read more

Listen in as Angela, Robin and Abby discuss the very real gender dynamics at play in our field and the implications for hiring and retaining the next generation of awesome special education teachers and related service providers. We referenced several historical timelines and recent articles in our discussion - if you… Read more

Join Robin, Abby and Angela as they discuss 10 common logical fallacies that come up in Team meetings and interactions with staff/parents. There are a bunch of these floating online but here is the one we used in the pod! Please tell us how you found us by completing this survey Email us at ASTALPodcast@gmail.com… Read more

Listen in as Robin, Angela and Abby discuss the real impact belonging can have on student achievement, the absurdity of anti-affinity group lawsuits and answer a listener question on calculating minutes. Happy Back to School and Back to Reality.... Some resources discussed this episode with references to the research… Read more

Welcome back! Join Abby, Robin and Angela as they begin season 4 and provide some helpful tips to get back into school. Please tell us how you found us by completing this survey Email us at ASTALPodcast@gmail.com Follow us on Instagram @astalpodcast

We are closing out school year 22-23 with our final podcast in Season 3. Join Abby, Robin and Angela as they share what's in store with them next year. Please tell us how you found us by completing this survey Email us at ASTALPodcast@gmail.com Follow us on Instagram @astalpodcast

Angela couldn't make it and we couldn't end season 3 without her, so Abby and Robin are sharing some reminders to think about as the end of year approaches. Happy Teacher Appreciation Week!! Check out New York State's comprehensive Exit Summary training slide deck Here is a great handout on Indicator 14 and tracking… Read more

Listen as Robin, Abby and Angela review the movie Champions Other points of view: Roger Ebert Interview with Bobby Farrelly Please tell us how you found us by completing this survey Email us at ASTALPodcast@gmail.com Follow us on Instagram @astalpodcast

Join Angela, Abby and Robin as they answer listener questions. If you have a question, send us an email at ASTALpodcast@gmail.com Please tell us how you found us by completing this survey Email us at ASTALPodcast@gmail.com Follow us on Instagram @astalpodcast

We are welcoming Laura Gillis back to the podcast to talk about discipline trends she is observing in schools. If you need a refresher on the discipline laws, go back and listen to our 3 part discipline podcasts from season 2 Discipline #3 Discipline #2 Discipline #1 Also- there was something funky going on with the… Read more

It is that time of year. Evaluation timelines in schools often hinge on key dates and March/April and May are busy times for rehiring (and not rehiring) decisions. Listen in as Angela, Robin and Abby discuss what they look for in good evaluators and effective evaluations. Please tell us how you found us by completing… Read more

Life got in the way and we couldn't get a new episode recorded for this week so please enjoy an encore episode from S1. We'll be back next week with a new episode! Robin/Abby/Angela The Extraordinary Att. Woo (Netflix) Please tell us how you found us by completing this survey Email us at ASTALPodcast@gmail.com Follow… Read more

Listen in as Robin, Angela and Abby discuss and debate the realities of budgets, last minute spring evaluation requests, ESY and how they think about extended time on the SAT's! Click HERE for the Massachusetts Q and A on Extended School Year (ESY) considerations. Please tell us how you found us by completing this… Read more

Listen in on this two part podcast. First, we hear from a real student about their perspective on the controversy stirred up by the NYT article on parent notification related to student gender. Then the discussion shifts to reflect on the life and legacy of Judy Heumann who was a pioneer in the disability rights… Read more

Schools can't solve all of society's needs, but we sure do get asked to try! Listen in as Robin, Angela and Abby discuss recent data and ideas for "post pandemic" mental health services in schools for students and staff. Here are some of the resources discussed in the pod: Where Do We Go From Here? How K-12 Schools… Read more

Valentine's Day is coming...are you celebrating it in school? Join us as we discuss the pandora's box of observing holidays in school. American society is becoming more diverse and so are our public schools. More and more districts are grappling with the need to rethink the holidays celebrated by Districts and in… Read more

Here's another movie review! Listen in as Robin, Angela and Abby discuss "I Didn't See You There" a new film by Reid Davenport. It is streaming for free now on PBS as part of the POV (Point of View) series. To save you time, here's a link: POV- I Didn't See You There In follow up to the discussion here are some… Read more

Listen in as Robin, Angela and Abby dissect and disagree (barely) with a recent court case regarding when school district staff "should" tell parents about a student's disclosure regarding gender transition. Reading materials (including the article Angela hates) on the topic we found helpful can be found HERE. Legal… Read more

Robin and Abby speak with Kristin Pas, from Behavior IS Communication podcast S: 2 E: 2, who has a new job as an administrator. Her favorite professional book: How to Set Up A Classroom For Autism S.B. Linton Please tell us how you found us by completing this survey Email us at ASTALPodcast@gmail.com Follow us on… Read more

This article was all a buzz this December and was sent to us by parents, staff and friends. Listen to Abby, Angela and Robin as they discuss what how to handle a situation when a respected treatment doesn't yield the expected results. *The Mismeasure of Misha- Boston Globe* Please tell us how you found us by… Read more

Check out our interview with Greg Austin, founder of Inclusive Fitness a gym that aims to create healthy lifestyles for neurodiverse people, their families, and communities. Find out more about: Inclusive Fitness A. J. Paron-Wildes Interior Design for Autism from Childhood to Adolescence Doug Flutie Foundation Please… Read more

Sorry folks! The stars did not align for us to record this week. We gave it several tries and life/work just got in the way. Please go back and revisit a previously recorded episode that you haven't listened to yet or in this recording I list the top 5 downloaded episodes. Tune in next week for a super cool interview!… Read more

We have some new listeners and it's been a while since we've introduced ourselves to the group! Please tell us how you found us by completing this survey Email us at ASTALPodcast@gmail.com Follow us on Instagram @astalpodcast

Join Robin, Abby and Angela as they interview Mike Thurm, as he speaks about his sister Jenny and how she shaped his personal and professional life as a special education administrator. Learn more about the BC Campus school here Please tell us how you found us by completing this survey Email us at… Read more

Are there certain words that get under your skin?? Robin, Angela and Abby talk about some of their least favorite education buzzwords. Also- please follow us on Instagram!! @ASTALPodcast Abby's SAT word during this episode: zeitgeist Please tell us how you found us by completing this survey Email us at… Read more

Listen while Abby and Robin talk about ableism in the autism community and specifically how labels shape our intervention models. Our conversation centers around this article which was sent to us by a listener (thank you!). If you have topics or articles that you'd like us to talk about, please send them to:… Read more

Join Robin, Abby and Angela as they share tips for productive IEP meetings. Please tell us how you found us by completing this survey Email us at ASTALPodcast@gmail.com Follow us on Instagram @astalpodcast

How many of us consider the special factors when developing an IEP? During this episode Robin, Angela and Abby breakdown the 6 (in Mass. more) special factors that IEP teams must consider. The regulations are here: https://sites.ed.gov/idea/regs/b/d/300.324/a (specifically 300.324 (a)(2)(i)-(v) Read the position paper… Read more

Join Robin, Abby and Angela as they share tips for successful school based meetings. We used this article as a based for the discussion. Please tell us how you found us by completing this survey Email us at ASTALPodcast@gmail.com Follow us on Instagram @astalpodcast

Robin, Abby and Angela speak with Julie Kenerson, a mom (and teacher!) who is on a mission to make playgrounds more accessible. Read about her here Follow her on Instagram: @letsgo_playground Read about the ADA requirements for Playgrounds here Please tell us how you found us by completing this survey Email us at… Read more

Robin and Angela share some tips to help you prepare for SY 22-23. Everyone have a great FDOC/S :) Please tell us how you found us by completing this survey Email us at ASTALPodcast@gmail.com Follow us on Instagram @astalpodcast

We're back! Join Abby, Robin and Angela as they discuss the teacher shortage and its impact on students. August 4th Washington Post article about National teacher shortage Do you think a 4 day work week is the solution?? What's happening in the Boston Public Schools? Can you imagine needing to hire over 1000… Read more

Thank for you listening to Season 2.! This school year has been a challenge in so many ways but doing the podcast and hearing from people all around the country has been a bright spot. We wish everyone a restful and refreshing summer and welcome ideas for topics for Season Three in September! Here are links to topics… Read more

Please go back in the archives and listen to an episode you may have missed from season 1 or season 2. We'll be back next week for the final episode of season 2. Please tell us how you found us by completing this survey Email us at ASTALPodcast@gmail.com Follow us on Instagram @astalpodcast

Listen in on the debate about grade retention. Angela, Robin and Abby discuss the documented pros and cons and debate the trends and impact post COVID. Grade Retention Post COVID 19: Evidence Based Guidance, UCONN School of Education, October 2021 Alternatives to Grade Retention by Linda Darling Hammond for the School… Read more

Listen in as Robin, Angela and Abby respond to collected questions from listeners. Topics include the always scintillating details of school discipline, the ins and outs of a parent's right to choose to medicate or not medicate their child and a super timely topic - all things extended school year. If you are… Read more

Have you ever considered becoming a special education administrator? It isn't as wild an idea as you might think! Join Robin and Abby as they share their journey on the path to educational leadership. Pros/Cons and lots of food for thought! Sample Student Services Department Head Rubric Sample Student Services… Read more

The film CODA has won multiple awards this year including Best Film and Best Supporting Actor. We watched the film and had lots of thoughts about the representation of people with disabilities in film. There are a variety of opinions and reactions to the film from people with and without disabilities. Check out the… Read more

The IEP cover letter (N1) is a wonderful opportunity for the District to communicate to Parents in plain language what the IEP the parent is receiving says, doesn't say and what the next steps are. Writing a good N1 letter is a skill every special ed teacher and administrator should have. Learning how to read an N1 is… Read more

The Pandemic was tough for us all. But it was really tough for first year high school principal Amy Davenport. Give a listen to how she thinks about the role, being the working parent of three (!) young children and building a high school that meets the needs of a super wide variety of students. Spoiler alert: She did… Read more

Hello Everyone! Just a quick pod this week to mark the One Year Anniversary of the Pod. Thank you for listening in - we are always thinking about new ideas and topics so send along your input and ideas to: astalpodcast@gmail.com ALSO - we are preparing a MAIL BAG episode - so it is your chance to send in… Read more

In this podcast Robin, Abby and Angela talk about this recent news event and the impact on people with disabilities. ALEC program Since 2004, retired Westwood Fire Captain Bill Cannata has been working tirelessly to help train emergency responders on how to deal with persons with autism during emergency situations.… Read more

We are following current events on the specific topic of Ukraine. It got us thinking about the broader topic of how to educate students with disabilities about important social and political developments. We used these resources as part of our community and school outreach and got great feedback on them. Hope they are… Read more

Therapy Turkey? Quite possibly, yes. Check out this great article: Why Turkeys and Other Birds Make Great Therapy Animals from the Audubon society - featuring a full color cover shot of a legit Therapy Turkey enjoying the plane ride and view out his window seat on an airplane.... Please tell us how you found us by… Read more

The Olympics are back and Robin is SUPER psyched about that. Tune in to this episode for a wide ranging discussion about representation of people with disabilities in the media, in schools and the community. Somehow we got to Kim Kardashian and her advertising campaign for underwear but eventually returned to the… Read more

Hello All! The Massachusetts Chapter of the Council for Exceptional Children invited us to participate in their 2022 virtual State Conference. The topic of this year's conference is Intersectionality and it caused us to think (and talk) a lot about how ableism is alive and well in schools and education. Coined in… Read more

Welcome back to S2 part 2. Robin, Abby and Angela are back from the holiday break and have a round table discussion of the current hot topics. We are looking forward to the rest of the year - our first episode coming up is a special episode for the Massachusetts Council of Exceptional Children (MCEC)'s annual virtual… Read more

Join Robin and Abby as they reflect on reaching the mid-way point of season 2. If you'd like to suggest a topic for a future podcast or ask a question, please reach out to astalpodcast@gmail.com Please tell us how you found us by completing this survey Email us at ASTALPodcast@gmail.com Follow us on Instagram… Read more

Specially Designed Instruction in the Heart and Soul of Special Education. For more information on this topic check out these great resources from the United Federation of Teachers (UFT) at: https://www.uft.org/teaching/students-disabilities/specially-designed-instruction Also if you are interested in observing/peer… Read more

Here are some additional resources related to invisible disabilities: https://invisibledisabilities.org/about/aboutida/ https://www.disabled-world.com/disability/types/invisible/ https://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/docs/hq5269.html Please tell us how you found us by completing this survey Email us at… Read more

In this podcast, Robin and Abby talk about the instructional strategy of Universal Design for Learning. You can learn more at : CAST - Located near Boston, CAST is a nonprofit education research and development organization that created the Universal Design for Learning framework and UDL Guidelines, now used the world… Read more

On this week's podcast, we interview Bill Kelly, dad of 5, 1 who has a complex disability. You'll hear his lens about navigating the special education world, while focusing on the "long game." You can learn more about Bill's work at CAIA The global professional body dedicated to alternative investments, seeking… Read more

During this episode, Robin, Angela and Abby interview Laura Gillis, a parent side attorney. https://www.legillislaw.com/attorney/laura-gillis To learn more about the trainings offered by the Federation for Children with Special Needs that was referenced in the podcast, go to: https://fcsn.org/ Please tell us how you… Read more

MA General Laws Regarding School Discipline The Big Three (the weapons and drugs are combined in section a - FYI) .... "Notwithstanding any general or special law to the contrary, all student handbooks shall contain the following provisions: (a) Any student who is found on school premises or at school-sponsored or… Read more

Our gift to you, loyal podcast listener.... Your very own customizable Manifestation Determination Hearing worksheet. May the force be with you and may you follow all the regulations. Robin, Angela and Abby… Read more

Somerville Suspension case https://www.bostonglobe.com/2021/05/25/metro/they-called-police-6-year-old-now-somerville-school-leaders-are-suspending-school-police-programs/ The Great Divide series - Boston Globe https://www.bostonglobe.com/metro/education/k-12/education-project/?p1=Article_Inline_Related_Link MADESE… Read more

If you are interested in learning more about the book mentioned in this episode, you can find Chip Wood's great resource "Yardsticks" at: https://www.responsiveclassroom.org/product/yardsticks-4th-edition/ Curious to learn more about Early Intervention (EI) services in your State or Territory? The CDC's website states… Read more

Have you ever wondered what a BCBA is or about their role in schools? BCBA stands for Board Certified Behavior Analyst and in this podcast, you'll learn about a BCBA's role on a school team and some of Kristin's top practical tips for teachers and parents. Please tell us how you found us by completing this survey… Read more

Masking can be a contentious issue for some folks. Not for us! Here are some resources and articles if you are interested in learning more: States w mandates 8/21 https://www.usnews.com/news/best -states/articles/these-are-the-states-with-mask-mandates Premise:Under the ADA and the Rehabilitation Act, public schools… Read more

If you are interested in some of the topics we discussed in this episode, here are some related links. History of the Paralympic Movement https://www.paralympic.org/ipc/history Becca Meyers and the Paralympics… Read more

Person Centered Planning/Free Britney Person-centered planning is a forum through which people join in intentional efforts to support, expand and deepen the direct and visible contribution a person with a disability makes to community life. It recognizes, embraces and celebrates the gifts of diversity and shared… Read more

And that's a wrap on Season 1! Thank you so much for listening and be on the look out for a trailer with highlights for Season 2....coming soon! Please tell us how you found us by completing this survey Email us at ASTALPodcast@gmail.com Follow us on Instagram @astalpodcast

In this episode, Robin, Angela and Abby discuss the positives and negatives when it comes to special education evaluations. Please tell us how you found us by completing this survey Email us at ASTALPodcast@gmail.com Follow us on Instagram @astalpodcast

Angela, Robin and Abby discuss the topic of Bullying and how it connects to special education. For more detail about the laws and regulations in Massachusetts check out these links: Section 37O: School bullying prohibited; bullying prevention and intervention plans; reporting of bullying incident date MADESE resources… Read more

Join Robin, Abby and Angela as they speak with Lateefah Frank, about the history of the METCO program and the over/under-representation of black and brown students in special education. METCO is the largest and longest-running voluntary school desegregation program in the U.S. enrolling over 3,000 Boston-resident… Read more

In this episode, Mollie from NJ asks: why are there so many IEP objectives? And why are they so hard to measure? If you have questions or ideas for future episodes, please send an email to ASTALpodcast@gmail.com Please tell us how you found us by completing this survey Email us at ASTALPodcast@gmail.com Follow us on… Read more

Summer, summer, summertime....join Robin, Abby and Angela as they unpack the hot topic of extended school year services. MADESE Question and Answer Guide on Special Education Extended School Year Programs Please tell us how you found us by completing this survey Email us at ASTALPodcast@gmail.com Follow us on… Read more

In this episode Angela, Robin and Abby speak with Dr. Elizabeth Stringer Keefe, Professor of Education at Stonehill College, about disrupting the traditional model and creating revolutionary new teacher preparation programs. Please reach out to @ProfKeefe to learn more about the teacher survey mentioned in the… Read more

Just as teaching is both an art and a science, the skills and qualities that make an effective special educator are a mix of attributes. Listen in as Angela, Robin and Abby take a very candid look at what makes or breaks a special education teacher. Learn more about the hiring process, interview questions to stand out… Read more

Robin, Angela and Abby walk listeners through the spectrum of placement options. Listen in on a spirited discussion sharing examples, stories and creative ways to think about the HOWS and WHYS of truly determining the Least Restrictive Environment. Please tell us how you found us by completing this survey Email us at… Read more

https://exceptionalchildren.org/sites/default/files/2020-07/Code%20of%20Ethics.pdf In this podcast, Robin, Abby and Angela unpack the Council for Exceptional Children's (CEC) Code of Ethics. CEC is a professional organization dedicated to improving the educational successes of students with disabilities. Education is… Read more

Angela, Robin and Abby mix it up with a lighthearted look at jargon in the world of special ed. Plan ahead and have libation of your choice handy! Please tell us how you found us by completing this survey Email us at ASTALPodcast@gmail.com Follow us on Instagram @astalpodcast

A thoughtful walk through the sometimes confusing arc of inclusion confusion and the resulting consistently inconsistent approaches to educating students with disabilities alongside their non disabled peers. Please tell us how you found us by completing this survey Email us at ASTALPodcast@gmail.com Follow us on… Read more

In this brand new podcast, 3 long time friends and colleagues- a special education teacher, an administrator, and a lawyer-will discuss, banter, and explore the complex and interesting landscape of special education in the United States. Tune in for special guests from all corners of the special and general education… Read more

Three professionals in the field of special education launch episode. Funny, irreverent and thought provoking analysis and discussion of key ideas in the world of special education. Please tell us how you found us by completing this survey Email us at ASTALPodcast@gmail.com Follow us on Instagram @astalpodcast

Angela, Robin and Abby reflect on the role parents play in special education and the big takeaways from interviewing two of the original adopters of Inclusive education. Please tell us how you found us by completing this survey Email us at ASTALPodcast@gmail.com Follow us on Instagram @astalpodcast

Interview with two moms who made it work for their (now adult) children. Reflections on what is was like to be an early-adopter of that thing called Inclusion, lessons learned, wishes for do-overs, and what really matters to parents and students (hint: it's all about connection) Please tell us how you found us by… Read more

From the 1620’s to today Education in the United States has been a fraught endeavor - especially for students with disabilities. In this episode, Robin, Angela and Abby trace a timeline of education in the US with a specific focus on how students with disabilities were included (spoiler alert: they weren’t). Please… Read more

Part Two of the COVID convo - what’s next, how will we ever get out of this and what, if anything, have we learned. Please tell us how you found us by completing this survey Email us at ASTALPodcast@gmail.com Follow us on Instagram @astalpodcast

Robin, Angela and Abby reflect on the impact COVID has had on teaching students with disabilities this terrible, no good, very bad year. Please tell us how you found us by completing this survey Email us at ASTALPodcast@gmail.com Follow us on Instagram @astalpodcast