In this episode, Stephanie breaks down the core of Specially Designed Instruction (SDI)—what it is, what it isn’t, and why it matters. Hint: accommodations like extra time or special seating don’t count as SDI.

She walks through the three essential elements of SDI: the what (content), the how (methodology), and the who/where/when (delivery). Stephanie also clears up the difference between SDI and differentiation, sharing simple, relatable examples that bring it all to life.

Whether you're in special education or supporting students with IEPs in the gen ed classroom, this episode gives you a clear understanding of how SDI works and how to implement it with intention.

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

Welcome to the first episode of The Intentional IEP Podcast!

In today’s episode, we’re kicking things off by diving into Extended School Year (ESY) and what it truly means for students with IEPs. We’ll walk through the criteria for determining eligibility and explore why ESY services are so important in helping students maintain their progress and prevent regression.

We'll also address some of the common misconceptions about ESY, like how it differs from traditional summer school and the factors that play into eligibility. Understanding how decisions are made will help you advocate more effectively for your students and ensure they’re getting the services they need.

Tune in to learn more about how ESY fits into the bigger picture of IEPs and how you can make informed choices for your students.

More information can be found in IDEA Section 300.106.

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

I vividly remember being a special education classroom teacher, and every single one of my memories revolves around IEPs. Whether it was sitting at my desk staring at my screen trying to come up with IEP goals, writing the IEP the night before the meeting, or drowning in piles and piles of what seemed like never ending paperwork… I always knew I wanted to make a difference, to truly support my students, but the process felt overwhelming—so much paperwork, so many moving parts, and not enough time to actually teach.

If you’ve ever felt the same way, you’re not alone. And that’s exactly why I created The Intentional IEP Podcast. My name is Stephanie, a dual-certified special education teacher, IEP Coach, author and creator of The Intentional IEP.

Together we are going to simplify the IEP process and uncover best practices and good IEP writing habits and processes - so you can focus on what really matters—your students.

Every Monday, we’ll break down IEP goals, writing strategies, and data collection hacks to help you work smarter, not harder. Some weeks, it’ll be just me sharing best practices and advocacy knowledge. Other weeks, I’ll bring on guests so we can all learn together.

Let’s make IEPs more effective, more efficient, and way less stressful—together. Welcome to The Intentional IEP Podcast!

You can follow and listen to the podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever else you get your podcast fix. I’ll see you there.

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