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Starting the Year Organized in Special Education (Without Losing Your Mind by October)
Special Education providers--OT, PT, Speech, you magical humans of related services--this one’s for you. Every year starts the same:...
Jennifer Allain
Aug 20, 20253 min read


From Teacher to Conference Presenter: What I Learned (and Loved) About Leading a Workshop
Honestly, having so much fun presenting at this workshop on a topic I think is very important in today's educational landscape. Whew. Let...
Jennifer Allain
Aug 3, 20253 min read


Back to School: Reset, Recharge, and Resist the Target Dollar Spot
Back to School: Reset and Recharge without breaking the bank. Back to school. That magical time of year when your stress dreams start...
Jennifer Allain
Jul 21, 20253 min read


Leadership Without the Title: How Teachers Run the Show
The word "Leadership" is boldly highlighted in pink, emphasizing its importance in the context of teaching and guidance without formal...
Jennifer Allain
Jun 14, 20253 min read


The Parent-Teacher Partnership: How to Engage Families Without Anyone Having a Meltdown
"Finding Balance: Managing Stress in Parent-Teacher Partnerships" I recently asked TikTok for feedback and the response I got was...
Jennifer Allain
May 19, 20253 min read


Capturing Student Engagement from the Hook: Think TikTok, Not Textbook
Dynamic dance performance captures the essence of creative engagement, blending movement and expression in a captivating display. If...
Jennifer Allain
May 9, 20253 min read


State Testing Motivation: Keeping Learning Alive When Everyone's Over It
A student engages in a test on their laptop, guided by a "Testing Season Survival Guide" to maintain motivation during assessment times....
Jennifer Allain
Apr 25, 20254 min read


What Special Education Teachers Wish They Knew Before Starting: Insider Tips for Success
Tips for New Special Education Teachers: Insights for Success and Growth. So you want to be a special education teacher? Bless your...
Jennifer Allain
Apr 13, 20253 min read


Unpopular Opinion: We Need to Bring Back the 90s (and Not Just for the Nostalgia)
Embrace the 90s nostalgia with a classic boombox, vibrant windbreaker, and retro flair, celebrating the nostalgic era beyond just the...
Jennifer Allain
Apr 5, 20254 min read


When the Snapback Isn’t Worth It: Building Bridges Between Teachers and Parents Through Communication
Let’s just call it like it is: being a teacher right now isn’t for the faint of heart. We’re part educator, part therapist, part...
Jennifer Allain
Mar 26, 20253 min read


The Hidden Connection Between Executive Functioning and Absenteeism in Middle and High School Students
Struggling with Executive Functioning Overload: Understanding Its Impact on School and Work Attendance. I've had this post written for a...
Jennifer Allain
Mar 23, 20254 min read


Understanding RTI and MTSS: A Guide for Special Education and English Language Learners
Understanding the differences between RTI and MTSS: Strategies for avoiding interruptions in learning progress for special education and...
Jennifer Allain
Mar 15, 20254 min read


The Mentor Struggle: Why I’m Building a Resource Hub for New Teachers (and Existing Ones)
Teachers unite at the Special Education Resource Hub, sharing strategies and ideas to support students effectively. I’ve always been...
Jennifer Allain
Mar 9, 20253 min read


Why Didn’t College Prepare Me for Special Education Report Writing?! (And Why is Everyone Gatekeeping Evaluation Templates?!)
Overwhelmed by paperwork: Streamlining special education evaluation reports to eliminate stress. You know what would have been really...
Jennifer Allain
Mar 4, 20253 min read


Introducing the Life Skills Goals & Resources Pack: Because We’ve All Been There
First... yes... I used Canva to create the image AND kept the stock photo of the beach because it was 50° yesterday and now its 20°......
Jennifer Allain
Mar 2, 20252 min read


The Missing Piece: Why My District Needs a Special Education Coach (And Why I’m the Perfect Fit)
Ever feel like you’re the only one playing a game without a playbook? That’s what it’s like teaching special education in my district....
Jennifer Allain
Feb 26, 20253 min read


AI in the Classroom: When Technology Becomes a Shortcut Instead of a Tool
Let’s talk about the double-edged sword that is technology in education. On one hand, it’s a game-changer—instant access to research,...
Jennifer Allain
Feb 26, 20253 min read
9 Proven Tips to Effectively Mentor New Teachers and Make a Real Impact
I know I talk about mentoring constantly. It is something I am truly passionate about. I am actually in the process of working with a...
Jennifer Allain
Feb 26, 20254 min read


Why Waking Up at 4 AM Can Change Your Life (Yes, Even With Kids and a Full-Time Job)
My friends think I'm crazy. Yes I really do get up at 4 AM. The alarm buzzes at 4 AM. It’s dark outside, the house is silent, and every...
Jennifer Allain
Feb 26, 20254 min read


20 Versatile Classroom Management Strategies to Transform Your Teaching
As teachers, we know that effective classroom management is the backbone of a productive and joyful learning environment. Without it,...
Jennifer Allain
Feb 26, 20253 min read
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