Co-Teaching That Works, Part 2: Turning Models Into Meaningful Collaboration
In Part 1 of this series, we explored how effective co-teaching depends on intentionally selecting and incorporating different co-teaching models. But knowing which model to use is only part of the equation. The real impact of co-teaching happens behind the scenes through trust, communication, and shared clarity. That’s where the DLC Co-Teaching Collaboration Template comes […]
Co-Teaching That Works Part 1: Practical Models for Inclusive Classrooms
Co-teaching is a powerful tool for inclusive instruction, but only when it’s implemented with intention. This two-part series explores how co-teaching can move beyond shared space to become a meaningful instructional partnership. In Part 1, we focus on the six co-teaching models and how choosing the right model for the moment can strengthen instruction for […]
Planning for All Learners: Focal Student Strategy
Planning for Diverse Learners Starts With One Student Inclusive instruction doesn’t start with a checklist, it starts with knowing your students. The Focal Student Strategy Tool helps educators do exactly that by intentionally planning instruction around a small set of “focal” learners whose needs represent the diversity of a real classroom. When teachers plan deeply […]
Diverse Learner Teacher Retention in Tennessee: A Study Examining 5 Conditions to Retain Special Educators
Why Teacher Retention for Diverse Learners Matters Across Tennessee and the nation, schools are facing a critical challenge: retaining educators who serve students with disabilities and English learners. These roles require deep expertise, collaboration, and sustained support, yet too often educators leave not because of students, but because of systems that make the work unsustainable. […]
Ensuring FAPE for Students with Disabilities During Virtual Learning: A Tool Designed for Moments of Disruption
Originally developed during COVID-19 school closures, Ensuring FAPE for Students with Disabilities remains deeply relevant today. While the context has shifted, the challenge has not: educators are still navigating flexible schedules, staffing shortages, intermittent absences, alternative placements, and evolving instructional models. At its core, this resource is a planning and reflection template that helps school […]
Funding All Learners: Reforming Tennessee’s School Funding Formula to Better Serve Students with Disabilities
A Resource Grounded in Classroom Reality Designed in 2022 in response to proposed legislative changes to Tennessee’s school funding model, Funding All Learners: Reforming Tennessee’s School Funding Formula to Better Serve Students with Disabilities is a practical, educator-centered resource that helps highlight the true cost of educational funding systems that center the needs of diverse […]