Joy Johnson

Over the past 28 years my philosophy of working with my special education students has shifted ever so slightly. Within the past several years I have learned something amazing; the less said, the better. My team of teachers and para-educators has worked very hard to follow a strict routine of "show more and say less". The 8.5" x 11" posters I have attached will help all teachers (general and special) stop the never ending repetition of basic directions. Creating a visual schedule in your roo

As a special service teacher, you quickly realize that documentation is your friend. Parent conferences are required at least once a year in most districts and mine is no exception. A standard form is used district wide, but my preschool, life skills and functional academic students have special items needing to be addressed. I always made a copy for myself and sent the original with the parents after the meeting. It's an easy way to take notes and ensures both parties are on the same page ab

Writing IEPs has come a long way in the 20 years I have been teaching special education. Here is a power point presentation I created for my team. The ideas are universal no matter what state you live in or what special education classes you teach. Our students deserve the best we can give them. This presentation guides new and old teachers to create the best objectives for all children.

All students love to look at books and listen to stories being read out loud. This reading log was an easy way for all students to participate in having a little nightly homework.