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.

The #BEspesh collection is all about redefining what inclusion looks like through design. From kid-friendly messages about friendship and belonging to "Spesh Mom" and "Spesh Teacher" pieces rooted in everyday life, each design is intentional, creative, and full of meaning. This isn't about clinical representation -- it's about wearable advocacy that feels warm, fun, and real.

The Faces of Spesh started as a simple photoshoot idea and has grown into something much bigger — a community-centered event built on inclusion, representation, and belonging. As we move toward Spesh’s first birthday on June 13, I’m sharing how this project evolved, what it’s becoming, and the people bringing it to life. You can also follow the journey through the So Very Spesh podcast, where Episodes 1–3 are linked in the post.

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.

Learn the origin story of Spesh and how it's creator grew to be the advocate she is today.

Walking into an IEP meeting shouldn’t feel overwhelming. The SPESH Parent Workbook helps you prepare with guided pages, parent-friendly explanations of special education terms, and access to a step-by-step training—so you can show up confident, informed, and ready to advocate for your child.

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.