After more than 40 years of IDEA implementation, the very core of this landmark legislation is still being explored – “What is specially designed instruction (SDI) and what does it look like in 2018?” This 4 day academy will examine this question from all angles and provide a framework for experienced special education administrators to reflect upon their district’s infrastructure and provision of SDI.

The academy will establish the historical and legal context of SDI and its relationship to the concept of FAPE. Participants will explore the characteristics and relationship of SDI to high probability practices, evidence-based practices and “best practice.” Current research, including work from CEEDARS, CEC, and the National Institute on Intensive Interventions will provide a framework for examining SDI practices in both academic and social/emotional domains. With a solid understanding of SDI, participants will identify how IEP teams can more effectively describe SDI in the IEP, Written Prior Notice and other associated documents.

Before concluding, participants will examine the sufficiency of SDI provided in their districts through a self-assessment and reflect upon their district’s assets, barriers and next steps.

After participating in this academy, administrators will:

• Revisit the historical and legal definition of SDI;
• Differentiate between the characteristics of “best practice” and “SDI”
• Develop a framework for the relationship and interdependence of general and special education in the provision of SDI
• Examine examples of SDI in all aspects of disability related needs including academic, social-emotional, behavioral and executive functioning.
• Examine different models of SDI along a continuum including pull-out, push-in, co-teaching and alternative curriculum.
• Examine the implications for IEP development, including “how disability affects…,” goals, accommodations and progress monitoring.
• Leave with a plan to bring the conversation in their educational community.

Targeted Audience: Experienced Special Education Administrators

Facilitator: Carol Kosnitsky

4 Day Academy: Cost: $850.00 Per Person

Session Time:

8:30 AM Registration/Get Settled/Coffee and Lite Breakfast

9:00 AM – 3:00 PM Session Time

Location: 25 Triangle Park Drive, Concord, NH 03301

SESSION DATES:                                        

Thursday, October 11, 2018

Thursday, November 1, 2018

Thursday, November 29, 2018

Tuesday, December 18, 2018

Wednesday, January 30, 2019 (snow date)