What does it really mean to use AI ethically as a special education teacher?

AI is everywhere—but how do you use it without losing your professional judgment or risking student privacy? If you’re curious, cautious, or somewhere in between, this episode is for you.

I’m breaking down the real pros and cons of AI in special education, sharing why AI can support your work but never replace the human connection. Plus, I’ll walk you through how to approach AI with curiosity, clarity, and caution—the three roles every teacher needs to take on.

Here’s what we’re covering:

• What AI can actually do well—and where it falls short
• How to use AI for lessons, documentation, and IEP writing responsibly
• Why protecting student privacy isn’t optional
• The importance of professional judgment and ethical decision-making
• How to be a smart consumer, thoughtful creator, and lifelong learner when it comes to AI

If you want to learn how to use AI tools in a way that supports your expertise and keeps your students safe, this episode is packed with practical advice and honest conversation about using AI.

Download the FREE IEP Goal Bank www.theintentionaliep.com/podcastgoalbank

For more information, check out more of Stephanie's resources:

https://www.theintentionaliep.com/the-intentional-iep-book/

https://www.theintentionaliep.com/

https://www.facebook.com/theintentionaliep

https://www.instagram.com/theintentionaliep

What does “sensory-friendly” actually mean?

In this episode, we’re breaking down the what, why, and how of creating a sensory-friendly classroom. Spoiler: it’s not about buying all the things—it’s about designing a space that helps students feel safe, supported, and regulated.

Every student has a sensory system. And every single one can benefit from a classroom that’s calm, intentional, and responsive to different sensory needs

We’re talking:

• What sensory-friendly really means
• Simple ways to create a supportive environment (think: calm colors, less clutter, visual schedules)
• 15 practical tools—from movement breaks to multi-sensory approaches

Whether you're just getting started or looking to make a few key changes, this episode will help you create a classroom that works better for every learner.

Sensory friendly classroom ideas: https://www.mrsdscorner.com/sensory-area-in-classroom/

Download the FREE IEP Goal Bank www.theintentionaliep.com/podcastgoalbank

For more information, check out more of Stephanie's resources:

https://www.theintentionaliep.com/the-intentional-iep-book/

https://www.theintentionaliep.com/

https://www.facebook.com/theintentionaliep

https://www.instagram.com/theintentionaliep

In this episode, Stephanie is breaking down some of the most common (and frustrating) misconceptions about IEPs—the ones every special education teacher has heard at some point. If you’ve ever been told “that’s just how it is,” this episode clears the air and sets the record straight.

What You’ll Learn:

– Why special education does not mean separate education

– What happens when an IEP needs to be changed before the annual meeting

– The truth about accommodations and “unfair advantages”

– Why no two students with the same disability should have the same IEP

– Whether students with IEPs can be held to grade-level standards

– What inclusion actually means for special ed and gen ed teachers

– Why general education teachers must understand each student’s IEP

Whether you’re a new teacher or a seasoned pro, this episode is packed with reminders, clarifications, and myth-busting truths to help you advocate with confidence.

Download the FREE IEP Goal Bank www.theintentionaliep.com/podcastgoalbank

For more information, check out more of Stephanie's resources:

https://www.theintentionaliep.com/the-intentional-iep-book/

https://www.theintentionaliep.com/

https://www.facebook.com/theintentionaliep

https://www.instagram.com/theintentionaliep