Special Education Resources & Blog | So Very Spesh

As a new preservice teacher, I once unintentionally left a student using eye-gaze AAC out of a lesson simply because I didn't know how to include him. That moment changed the way I understand communication, participation, and inclusion forever. This post is an honest reflection on learning to slow down, presume competence, and make space for every voice -- because communication is not limited to speech, and inclusion is always a choice.

Disability rights and universal design are often misunderstood as issues that only affect a small group of people. In reality, they shape the everyday tools, spaces, and systems we all rely on -- from captions and elevators to smart technology and classroom supports. This blog explores how inclusion is already woven into daily life, why schools have always needed flexible design for diverse learners, and why accommodations should never be limited only to students with formal

Visual supports and social stories can make an enormous difference for neurodivergent children navigating new experiences. From reducing anxiety to increasing confidence and participation, accessible preparation helps children feel safe, informed, and included in the world around them.

Speech-language pathologists have deeply shaped the way I approach teaching, communication, and inclusion. In this SLP Appreciation Day reflection, I'm sharing how collaboration with SLPs -- alongside my experiences supporting a nonspeaking individual and participating in Project PREP at WKU -- transformed my understanding of AAC, communication access, and creating meaningful opportunities for all students to participate in learning.

A look ahead at The Summer of Spesh--a season of celebration, connection, and community leading up to Spesh's first birthday. From the June 13 Faces of Spesh photoshoot and early birthday celebration, to the July 1 launch of the #BEspesh Collection, the July 18th PossAbilities Expo, and Spesh's official birthday July 19th, this summer is filled with meaningful moments, new releases, and opportunities to engage. Follow along for updates, giveaways, resources, and behind-the-sc

Wonderful Wins Wednesday celebrates the meaningful moments happening in special education and inclusion communities. Share student milestones, teacher encouragement, advocacy victories, and everyday SPED wins through the Spesh Facebook community.

Inclusion and co-teaching are often discussed in theory but misunderstood in practice. This post breaks down what meaningful inclusion truly looks like, how effective co-teaching functions in real classrooms, and practical strategies educators can use to move beyond simply sharing a room.

Most people associate stroke with adults--but stroke can happen to children, too. Pediatric stroke can impact learning, behavior, communication, motor skills, and executive functioning long after medical recovery. In this post, we're breaking down what parents and educators need to know about pediatric stroke in the school setting and why awareness matters for advocacy.

End-of-year special education planning involves much more than final progress reports. From transition prep and ESY decisions to graduation planning and communication between teams, important details can easily fall through the cracks. In this week's Meaningful Meeting Monday, learn how to close out the school year intentionally--and why a structured planning system can make all the difference.

One small tool, big classroom impact. This free timer helps reduce interruptions, smooth transitions, and make your day run easier.

Every great meeting starts with one simple question: What’s working, and how do we know? Wonderful Wins Wednesday is the perfect reminder that progress is not just about numbers on a page--it's about bringing together teacher insight, parent perspective, and student voice to celebrate growth and make meaningful next steps. The best meetings happen when everyone comes to the table with something valuable to share. Teachers bring data and classroom observations Parents bring re

Strong IEP meetings begin before anyone sits down. These input forms help teachers, parents, and students come prepared with clear, thoughtful information.

IEP meetings are too important to feel rushed or unclear. Here’s what actually makes them meaningful—from preparation to collaboration to student-centered planning.