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  • Welcome to another episode of "The Writing Glitch: Hacking Dysgraphia—No Pencil Required." Today, we're diving deep into the world of number sense, focusing on children, especially those facing learning challenges such as dyscalculia. Joining us is Jonily Zupancic, who brings her expert insights into the often misunderstood concept of number sense.

    The Fundamentals of Number Sense

    Number sense is a fundamental skill that impacts mathematical learning and understanding. It refers to a person's ability to understand, use, and manipulate numbers and mathematical concepts. Unlike procedural knowledge, which involves memorizing facts and formulas, number sense is more intuitive.

    During the podcast, Jonily explains, "Number sense is innate. It's something we are born with." This statement is supported by research, including a study from Johns Hopkins University, which found that even six-month-old infants can show awareness of quantities.

    The Struggle with Mathematics

    Many children with learning disabilities, including dyscalculia, struggle with basic math facts, which is often tied to poor number sense. Jonily shares insights on how these children might struggle with addition or subtraction because they lack an intuitive grasp of number magnitude and relationships.

    To address these challenges, Jonily emphasizes the importance of teaching strategies that enhance number sense. This approach contrasts sharply with traditional methods focusing on memorization and procedural learning. She points out that procedural knowledge is necessary but does not foster a deep understanding of mathematical concepts.

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    Educational Strategies for Enhancing Number Sense

    One effective strategy discussed is rote counting exercises, which can help children internalize the order and value of numbers without needing to rely on visual aids or manipulatives. Jonily describes several exercises, such as counting forwards and backward from any number, which can significantly aid students in solidifying their understanding of number sequences and relationships.

    Moreover, these activities are not just for the classroom. They can be incorporated into daily routines, such as car rides or walks to school, making them practical and easy to implement for parents and educators alike.

    The Bigger Picture

    The discussion also touches on the broader implications of fostering number sense. Jonily and Cheri Dotterer, the host, explore how strengthening this foundational skill can lead to improved performance in mathematics and other cognitive areas. They discuss how enhanced number sense can help students in academic settings and everyday life, making them more numerate and better equipped to handle quantitative reasoning tasks.

    Conclusion

    Today's podcast illuminates the critical role ofToday's sense in mathematical learning, especially for children with learning challenges. By moving beyond traditional teaching methods and embracing strategies that promote an intuitive understanding of numbers, educators, and parents can provide children with the tools they need to succeed in mathematics and beyond.

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  • As we dive into another episode of "The Writing Glitch," we're reminded of the power of resilience and determination. Today, we had the privilege of hearing from retired Lieutenant Colonel Jason Pike, whose story is nothing short of inspirational.

    Jason's journey began with the struggles of learning disabilities, identified early in his life. Despite the challenges in reading and writing, he didn't let these obstacles define his path. Instead, Jason turned to the military, a decision that not only built his confidence but also laid the foundation for a remarkable 31-year career.

    What stands out in Jason's story is his relentless pursuit of personal growth. He shared with us the strategies he developed to cope with his learning disabilities, from using note cards for brevity in learning to sitting at the front of the class to minimize distractions. He also emphasized the importance of using all senses in the learning process, a technique that helped him absorb information more effectively.

    Jason's journey is a testament to the fact that learning disabilities do not equate to limitations. His achievements, both in the military and in academia, where he earned two master's degrees, are proof that with the right strategies and a resilient mindset, anything is possible.

    For parents and educators listening to this episode, Jason's story is a reminder to provide space and support for children with learning disabilities. It's crucial to allow them to grow at their own pace and to recognize that each child's path to success may look different.

    In conclusion, Jason Pike's journey is a powerful example of how embracing your unique path, despite the challenges, can lead to extraordinary achievements. Let his story inspire you to approach learning disabilities not as barriers but as opportunities for growth and resilience.

    Thank you for tuning in to "The Writing Glitch." Don't forget to subscribe and join us next time as we continue to explore the complexities of writing and learning disabilities.

    Contact Jason Pike

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  • In a world where education is constantly evolving, it's essential to explore innovative approaches that cater to students' diverse needs. Recently, I had the privilege of interviewing Jeffrey Benson, a seasoned educator, author, and advocate for creating inclusive and supportive learning environments. In our conversation, Benson shared his wisdom on empowering students, fostering interdisciplinary teams, and the importance of social-emotional learning (SEL) in today's classrooms.


    Empowering Students Through Focus and Understanding:
    Benson emphasizes the significance of understanding students' needs and creating a classroom environment that encourages engagement and productivity. Cheri discusses her method, "Focus Triggers," which is designed to help teachers improve classroom dynamics by addressing the specific needs of each student. By acknowledging students' unique challenges, educators can tailor their teaching methods to foster a more inclusive and effective learning environment.

    The Role of Interdisciplinary Teams in Education:
    One of Benson's passions is creating interdisciplinary teams within schools to support students' writing skills. He believes that collaboration among different subject teachers can provide a more holistic approach to education, ensuring that students receive consistent support across all areas of learning. This collaborative effort can bridge gaps in education and provide students with a well-rounded educational experience.

    The Importance of Social-Emotional Learning:
    Benson also highlights the critical role of social-emotional learning (SEL) in modern education. He argues that SEL should be integrated across the entire education system, not just treated as a buzzword. Educators can create a more empathetic and self-aware generation by teaching students to advocate for themselves and understand their own emotions. Benson's approach to SEL involves making it explicit in lesson plans and encouraging students to participate actively in their learning.

    Conclusion:
    Jeffrey Benson's insights into education are a testament to the power of innovative thinking and compassion in teaching. Educators can create a more inclusive and effective learning environment by focusing on students' individual needs, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, and prioritizing social-emotional learning. As we continue to navigate the ever-changing landscape of education, it's clear that approaches like Benson's will be instrumental in shaping the future of learning.

    Call to Action:
    Are you an educator looking to implement these innovative strategies in your classroom? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below, and let's continue the conversation on creating more supportive and inclusive educational environments for all students.

    Biography

    Jeffrey Benson has over forty years of experience as a teacher, mentor, and school administrator. His passion is supporting schools to be more successful with more students. He is an internationally known author, including the books "Hanging In-- Strategies for Working with the Students Who Challenge Us Most;" "Ten Steps for Managing Change in Schools;" "Teaching the Whole Teen: Everyday Practices that Promote Success and Resilience in School and Life;" "Improve Every Lesson Plan with SEL;" and his newest book, "Hacking School Discipline Together." Jeffrey leads school change initiatives, facilitating interdisciplinary teams that convert long-standing dilemmas into cutting-edge growth and community building and creating more inclusive school and classroom cultures. He is a member of the ASCD faculty, is frequently published in education journals, and speaks at conferences on working with challenging students, integrating SEL into everyday practices, restorative practices, decision-making skills for leaders, and the science of learning and teaching. His website is JeffreyBenson.org.

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  • Welcome to a special edition of The Writing Glitch podcast, where we delve into the fascinating world of puppetry and its role in enhancing literacy skills. In this episode, we enjoyed hosting Carol Richards and Linnea Smith, the dynamic duo behind Richard's Learning Systems. This revolutionary literacy program incorporates puppets, animation, and multisensory learning to teach reading. Join us as we explore the magic behind their approach and how it's transforming how children learn to read.

    The Genesis of Richard's Learning Systems
    Carol Richards, the founder of Richard's Learning Systems, shared her journey from starting a tutoring service to developing a comprehensive literacy program. With the challenge of making her science of reading program accessible and practical, Carol had a eureka moment that led to creating a unique video-based curriculum. These videos, devoid of adult presence, feature puppets and animation to engage children in learning sounds, blends, digraphs, and eventually syllables, culminating in the ability to read complex words like "antidisestablishmentarianism."

    The Puppets of Literacy
    The program boasts a cast of charming puppets, each with a specific role in teaching literacy concepts. Miss Alice teaches the short "a" sound, while Silly Ball, the syllable scientist, helps students break words into syllables. Chef Cookie teaches blends with her whisk and animated ingredients, and Sophie introduces non-phonetic "red words" through arm tapping.

    A Family Affair
    Linnea Smith, Carol's daughter, brings her creative expertise and personal experience as a struggling reader. She played a pivotal role in producing the video series and creating the puppets, transforming them from simple sock puppets to the engaging characters used today.

    Expand

    Richard's Learning Systems is not just for young learners. The program has succeeded with older students, refugees, immigrants, and even adults in the workforce. Its simplicity and effectiveness make it a valuable tool for many learners, including non-verbal students who have shown remarkable progress.

    Incorporating Writing Skills:
    The program also addresses writing skills through tracing practice, spelling exercises, and gentle introductions to sentence structure. The focus is on making learning as multisensory as possible, with tactile letter cards and activities reinforcing the connection between reading and writing.

    Accessible and Affordable:
    Richard's Learning Systems is designed to be both accessible and affordable. With a subscription model, teachers and parents can access the materials and videos needed to implement the program effectively. The emphasis is on short, daily sessions that fit easily into any schedule.

    Conclusion:
    Richard's Learning Systems is a testament to the power of creativity and innovation in education. By harnessing the appeal of puppets and the principles of multisensory learning, Carol Richards and Linnea Smith have created a literacy program that teaches children how to read and instills a love for reading. As we explore the potential of puppetry in education, Richard's Learning Systems stands as a shining example of how thinking outside the box can lead to remarkable outcomes in literacy development.

    Visit Richard's Learning Systems for more information and to explore the magical world of literacy puppets.

    Contact Carol and Linnea

    Contact Cheri

    Upcoming Event: May 11, 2024
    Being Recorded

    Tier 1,2,3 Non-Academic Interventions to enhance structured literacy and writing skills

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  • In this episode of The Writing Glitch podcast, I had the pleasure of interviewing Joe Houghton, a remarkable educator, photographer, and University College Dublin Innovation Academy fellow. Our conversation delved into the evolving landscape of education, particularly in the context of remote learning and the COVID-19 pandemic. Here are some key takeaways from our discussion:

    Embracing the Challenges and Opportunities of Remote Teaching
    Joe shared his experiences with the sudden shift to online teaching due to the pandemic. He emphasized the importance of adapting to this new environment and finding innovative ways to engage students. By incorporating tools like breakout rooms, Kahoot, and Mentimeter, Joe has created dynamic and interactive learning experiences for his students.

    The Power of Storytelling in Education
    Both Joe and I are strong advocates for storytelling as an educational tool. Joe's approach to teaching involves using stories to make complex concepts more relatable and memorable for students. This technique enhances understanding and fosters a deeper connection between educators and learners.

    Prioritizing Accessibility and Inclusivity
    A significant part of our conversation focused on the importance of accessibility in education. Joe's journey with his son Danny, who has dysgraphia and hypermobility, highlighted the need for educators to be aware of and accommodate diverse learning needs. Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and accessible technology ensure all students have equal opportunities to succeed.

    The Impact of COVID-19 on Educational Practices
    The pandemic has undoubtedly been a catalyst for change in the education sector. Joe and I discussed how it has prompted educators to rethink traditional teaching methods and embrace more flexible and inclusive approaches. The shift towards online learning has opened up new possibilities for innovation and underscored the importance of adaptability in facing challenges.

    Looking Ahead: The Future of Education
    As we look to the future, it's clear that the education landscape will continue to evolve. The experiences and lessons learned during the pandemic will undoubtedly shape teaching practices for years. Educators like Joe Houghton are at the forefront of this transformation, leading the way in creating engaging, accessible, and effective learning environments for all students.

    In conclusion, my conversation with Joe Houghton was a powerful reminder of the resilience and creativity of educators in the face of adversity. His insights into remote teaching, storytelling, and accessibility are valuable lessons for anyone involved in the field of education. As we navigate the ever-changing world of learning, it's clear that adaptability, innovation, and inclusivity will be vital to empowering students and shaping the future of education.

    Notable Quote from Joe Houghton: "As educators, we have to pick up on these cues from mainstream media and build this stuff into what we're doing. Having a visual eye for photography also translates into all the other education. And then, hopefully, I'll bring in, as I've done in the last couple of years, a little bit more awareness of accessibility. Because again, that was a bit of a moment for me when one of my students came up to me and said that he had dyslexia."

    Contact Joe: Linked In
    The Plus One Podcast

    Contact Cheri: Website

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  • In this heartfelt episode of The Writing Glitch Podcast, host Cheri Dotterer, an Occupational Therapist and recovering dysgraphic, delves into the transformative power of play and emotional learning with guest Paul Zolman. Zolman discovered an unconventional path to aiding children's social and emotional development through his groundbreaking game and shared his journey from personal struggles to inspiring change in educational settings. This game, rooted in the principles of the Five Love Languages, offers a simple yet profound way to enhance self-regulation, leadership, and classroom engagement with no pencil required. Join us as we explore how this game not only addresses dysgraphia but also sows the seeds of empathy, understanding, and self-awareness in young minds.


    Quote from Paul Zolman:
    "Through this game, we're not just teaching children to recognize and express love in various forms but also empowering them to take ownership of their emotions and actions. It's about transforming our approach from one of reacting to one of responding with intention. My hope is that by integrating these practices into daily routines, we can create a more compassionate, understanding world where every child feels valued and understood."


    Contact: Paul Zolman Role of Love https://roleoflove.com/
    Cheri Dotterer. https://www.cheridotterer.com/

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  • In today's episode, we leave school and enter the workplace with special guest, Katherine McCord, HR Diversity Specialist. Having disabilities herself, she is sensitive to the impact diversity and inclusion have on long-term employment. She provides actionable insights and resources to support and advocate for neurodiverse individuals.

    Bio: Katherine is neurodiverse (Bipolar, OCD, Misophonia) and physically diverse (multiple diagnoses including a seizure disorder). She says, "My neurodiversity is my superpower!"
    My missions are integrity, innovation, and inclusion.
    I enjoy speaking and providing actionable advice about:
    * Entrepreneurship
    * Breaking the ego mechanism to respond in curiosity
    * Vulnerability and psychological safety
    * Leadership
    * Neurodiversity
    * Diversity and inclusion (inclusion cannot be exclusive!!)
    * Innovating hiring and HR
    * HR Tech
    * General empowerment

    Notable Quote:
    "Neurodiversity is not a deficit; it's just a difference. It does have its challenges, but there are also benefits. By understanding and accommodating these differences, we can transform workplaces and educational settings into more inclusive, productive environments. It's about breaking down barriers and responding with curiosity and flexibility."

    Contact: Katherine McCord
    KMcCord Speaking

    Contact Cheri:
    Cheridotterer.com

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  • In this inspiring episode, we delve into the unique and motivating journey of Hillary Glaser, who overcame her personal challenges with reading comprehension and dysgraphia to carve a successful path in digital marketing and dedicated her business to her mother and stepmother. As a mother of children with ADHD and autism, Hillary shares her insights on the importance of individualized education and the use of assistive technologies in enhancing learning experiences. The conversation also explores the intersection of these personal experiences with her professional expertise in SEO and web accessibility, providing a fascinating look at how personal challenges can transform into professional strengths.

    She mentions the difference between dyslexia and hyperlexia. Listen in to learn the difference.


    Significant Quote:
    "One of the most powerful things I've learned through my journey and experiences, both as a professional in digital marketing and as a mother, is the profound impact of understanding and accommodating individual learning needs. Whether it's adapting to hyperlexia or leveraging assistive technologies for my children, these experiences have deeply influenced my approach to creating inclusive and accessible digital content. It's about recognizing that at the heart of every challenge lies an opportunity to innovate and empower." - Hillary Glaser

    Contact Hillary
    https://www.ellienjojo.co/

    Contact Cheri
    https://www.cheridotterer.com/


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  • In today's episode, Cheri engages in a profound conversation with Russell Van Brocklen, a dyslexia specialist from Westlake, New York. Russell shares his unique journey of overcoming dyslexia and details his innovative approach, known as the Writing Method, which has significantly improved the writing skills of high school students with dyslexia. Dive into a discussion that spans from personal struggles to groundbreaking research, providing listeners with an in-depth understanding of dyslexia, dysgraphia, and related conditions. This episode is a must-listen for educators, parents, and anyone interested in the neurobiology of learning disabilities.

    Bio: Russell combined the brain research in Overcoming Dyslexia by Sally Shaywitz with the three default writing strategies in Strategies for Struggling Writers by James Collins while in graduate school. As a result, his initial research program was funded by the New York State Senate and is owned by the SUNY Research Foundation.

    He found that motivated high school students with dyslexia increased their writing skills by 7 to 8-grade levels in one academic year. His approach is called The Writing Method.

    Russell presented at The Everyone Reading Conference in Manhattan in 2006 and from 2014 to 2019. He also presented in November 2018 at a conference by The Learning Disability Association of NJ.


    Notable Quote:
    "What we're going to do is we're going to force the brain to organize itself, by using writing as a measurable output. Again, we're going to force the brain to organize itself by using writing as a measurable output."

    https://dyslexiaclasses.com/

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  • In today's episode, Cheri delves into the world of digital solutions for learning disabilities. Joined by Marty Schultz, co-founder of Objective Ed, they explore groundbreaking tools designed for students with dyslexia, visual impairments, and other reading challenges. Discover how Objective Ed's digital curriculum, including the Braille AI tutor and Buddy Books, transforms the educational experience for students across the country. Cheri shares her personal journey with dysgraphia, offering insights into overcoming learning obstacles. Marty sheds light on the impact of their products in enhancing reading fluency and confidence, revealing how technology can revolutionize learning for those who struggle with traditional methods.

    Bio: Marty is a cofounder of ObjectiveEd, which builds a reinforcement digital curriculum for students with disabilities. He has coordinated several NSF, NIH, and HHS grants for developing products for students who have dyslexia and students with vision impairments. ObjectiveEd products are used in hundreds of school districts, including some of the largest districts in the country. He has degrees from Carnegie-Mellon University and Harvard Business School.

    https://www.objectiveed.com/

    Notable Quote:
    "Anytime you can share that with the computer, kids love being with a computer, playing on it, and having it interact with them. As you've heard at the beginning, the voice on the reading, even though it's a computer-based voice, sounds even better than Siri or Alexa. So kids really like to read with that computer." - Marty Schultz.

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    thewritingglitch.com

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  • Today's episode is from a masterclass that I presented several years ago. Form Constancy is a visual perceptual concept that impacts letters like b,d,p,q or numbers 2 and 5. The event began by defining dysgraphia. If you need to see images, check out the YouTube channel @cheridotterer.

    Introduction:
    The episode starts with an exploration of dysgraphia and its impact on written expression, spelling, and more.

    The host mentions their background as an OT (Occupational Therapist) and their goal to establish correlations between OT concepts and dysgraphia.

    Segment 1: Foundations of Dysgraphia
    Dysgraphia is introduced as a condition encompassing various aspects, including sensory motor development, visual-spatial relationships, and memory.

    The host categorizes dysgraphia into three levels:The basic foundation, involving sensory motor and neurological development.Word and sentence formation, which is language-based.Paragraph formation, which relates to conversational writing styles.

    Segment 2: Dyslexia vs. Dysgraphia

    A listener question about the difference between dyslexia and dysgraphia is addressed.

    Dyslexia is explained as a reading difficulty or intake issue, while dysgraphia pertains to output issues in writing.Mention is made of dyscalculia, another related condition.The importance of considering oral expression, such as dyspraxia of speech, in understanding dysgraphia is emphasized.

    Segment 3: Cognitive Level of Dysgraphia

    The highest level of dysgraphia is discussed, focusing on cognitive aspects and their connection to conversational speech.The host introduces the topic of "form constancy" and its link to abstract thought.A quote from the host's book mentioning the connection between form constancy and abstract thought is mentioned.

    Segment 4: Form Constancy and Abstract Thought
    The episode delves into the concept of form constancy and its significance.

    The host explains how form constancy issues can affect a child's abstract thinking abilities.

    Segment 5: Audience Questions

    The host invites questions from the audience regarding dysgraphia or any related topics discussed in the episode.

    Conclusion:

    The episode wraps up with a reminder of the main topic, dysgraphia, and the opportunity for listeners to ask more questions in future episodes.

    Outro:

    The host thanks the audience for tuning in and encourages them to subscribe for more insightful discussions on various learning and developmental topics.

    CEU Discount Code: BlackFriYAY2023 Expires December 2, 2023
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  • Join us in this transformative episode as we dive deep into the world of dyslexia and dysgraphia, exploring the personal journeys, challenges, and breakthroughs experienced by those who have navigated these learning difficulties. From the very beginning, we set the stage with an insightful discussion on overcoming reading struggles with our guest expert, Lois Letchford, a renowned reading specialist who has turned her own journey with dyslexia into a beacon of hope for others.

    Ever wondered about the link between early childhood ear infections and language development? We've got you covered! Letchford unravels the challenges of teaching children with dyslexia, providing valuable insights on strategies that work. Discover the transformative power of connecting oral and written language through poetry and playwriting, and learn how even the most complex texts can be made accessible and enjoyable to students with reading difficulties.

    As we venture further, we unveil teaching strategies specifically designed for students with dysgraphia, with Cheri Dotterer discussing her upcoming book "Math Disconnected" and the pivotal role of concrete, semi-concrete, and abstract teaching methods. Lois Letchford chimes in, sharing innovative ideas to bring these methods to life, urging listeners to take action in their own educational settings.

    This episode is not just a collection of stories and strategies; it's a call to action, an invitation to understand, empathize, and empower. Whether you're a teacher, parent, professional, or someone navigating dyslexia or dysgraphia personally, this podcast is a treasure trove of knowledge, inspiration, and practical advice. Don't miss out on the chance to transform your approach to learning and teaching, and join us on this journey of empowerment and discovery.

    Lois Letchford
    Cheri Dotterer

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  • Today's guest is no stranger to the world of dyslexia. Russ Loyd has taken his love of technology and dyslexia and merged them into a website that curates all documents about dyslexia.

    Inside the episode, Russ and Cheri discuss

    Discussion on the inception and importance of a digital platform for consolidating neurodiversity resources.Russ's personal journey with dyslexia and his involvement with Providence Charter School.The role of technology in dyslexia remediation.Insights into how artificial intelligence (AI) can assist people with dyslexia.Celebrating dyslexic celebrities and their accomplishments.The U.S. federal law on dyslexia education for K-12 teachers.

    Key Points and Timestamps:

    [00:00] Introduction of the episode and guest.[02:14] About 'Just Like': Consolidating the web for neurodiversity information.[04:30] Russ's personal connection to dyslexia.[07:20] The importance of vetting technological tools for neurodiversity.[09:05] Episode sponsor: Dr. Educational Consulting Center.[11:12] How AI is shaping the future of dyslexia remediation.[13:50] A glimpse into 'Just Like's' AI-curated content.[16:40] Celebrating dyslexic celebrities and breaking stereotypes.[18:50] U.S. federal law on dyslexia education.[20:35] The importance of structured literacy programs across all subjects.[22:10] Emphasizing the achievements of dyslexics and their positive impact.[24:40] Conclusion and a look into the future of dyslexia remediation.

    Links & Resources:

    Just Like Platform - A consolidated platform for neurodiversity resources.Providence Charter School - A charter school in Pittsburgh specializing in dyslexia remediation.GPT-4 by OpenAI - A mention of the powerful language model.List of dyslexic celebrities - Articles and resources showcasing the achievements of dyslexics in various fields.

    Quotable Moments:

    "Only you can be you, so let's embrace that and show young learners that they can overcome.""AI will change everything or change the life of education.""Dyslexia touches everything... It's amazing how many successful people have transcended their dyslexia to achieve."

    Episode Closing:
    You were put here for such a time as this!
    dyslexiacampus.com
    Cheridotterer.com

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  • Join Cheri on this Special Edition of The Writing Glitch is PA House Representative Jason Ortitay. He discusses the importance of mandating education for writing skills, as many teachers struggle to teach writing effectively.


    PA House Bill 998 and Senate Bill 801:

    The interviewee explains that both bills aim to introduce legislation related to education.The bills have the same content but different bill numbers.The bills have bipartisan support, with Republican and Democrat co-primes in both the House and Senate.The interviewee emphasizes that the bills' primary goal is to improve education, irrespective of political affiliations.

    Key Provisions of the Bills:

    Early Screenings:Kindergarten through third-grade students will be screened three times a year to track progress.The goal is to ensure students are on track with their reading skills and provide support if needed.The interviewee emphasizes the importance of proficient reading skills by the end of third grade.Individualized Plans:If students are falling behind in their reading skills, they will receive individualized improvement or reading plans.Teachers, parents, and students will collaborate on these plans to prevent students from falling further behind.Cost Savings:The interviewee highlights the cost savings associated with early intervention.Educating students with special needs costs significantly more, making early screening and intervention financially prudent.Teacher Training:K-4 teachers, administrators, reading specialists, and special education teachers will receive training in structured literacy.The state will provide financial resources to support teacher training.Vendor Selection:A committee of subject matter experts will select high-quality vendors for structured literacy programs.School districts can choose from this list of approved vendors, simplifying the selection process.State Reporting:The bill requires school districts to report their use of structured literacy programs to the Department of Education.The state will track progress and gather data to ensure the effectiveness of the programs.Ban on "Three-Cueing":The bill prohibits the use of "three-cueing" methods in Pennsylvania.This move aims to promote evidence-based approaches and discontinue ineffective practices.Writing Instruction:The interviewee acknowledges the importance of incorporating structured writing instruction into future bills.The focus is on creating explicit, systematic, cumulative, multisensory writing programs.The goal is to address the gap in writing education within structured literacy programs.

    Conclusion:

    The interviewee discusses the challenges of passing comprehensive legislation and the need for ongoing efforts to improve education.Future steps may include recapturing students who were not reached by the initial programs and further enhancing writing instruction.

    House Bill 998
    Senate Bill 801

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  • Welcome to season two of The Writing Glitch!

    Cheri and Melissa Gill explore groundbreaking strategies to "hack" dysgraphia, challenging the conventional notion that writing difficulties are insurmountable. As they engage in candid conversation, they uncover invaluable methods to conquer dysgraphia's limitations without even picking up a pencil.

    Discover how Melissa's extensive experience has illuminated paths for students facing similar hurdles. Unravel the experiences of Wabash Valley Education Center and its impact on shaping educational landscapes. Through their engaging dialogue, you'll gain a fresh perspective on overcoming obstacles and creating a thriving learning environment for all.

    Get ready to witness a podcast episode that's not just a discussion; it's a transformational experience. Tune in, watch, and be inspired as Cheri and Melissa unravel the layers of educational challenges, providing insights that will resonate with students, educators, and anyone seeking to harness their potential. Stay tuned for this captivating conversation because it's time to unleash the power within!

    Today's guest:
    Melissa Gill
    Educator
    Instructional Outreach Director
    Wabash Valley Education Center, Lafayette, IN
    Special Education Recorded Conference (October 2023)

    Social Links:

    Twitter/X @mrsgillatwvec

    LinkedIN: www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-gill-wvec

    Other contact info: https://www.esc5.k12.in.us/

    Bio: As an educator, Melissa Gill has experienced life as a primary & intermediate Classroom Teacher, Instructional Coach, Reading Specialist, and Administrator. She has facilitated preK-12 district professional development and provided MTSS leadership support. Melissa is currently the Instructional Outreach Director at WVEC! She works onsite, supporting & encouraging educators in their professional learning while also fostering partnerships with various educational organizations to meet the needs of all students in Indiana. Besides making new connections, Melissa enjoys traveling, reading, and spending time with her family.


    Notable Quote: "Inclusion is the cornerstone of a successful education system. Providing a Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) and fostering an environment that values diversity ensures that every student receives the tailored assistance they need to excel and reach their full potential."

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  • Join Cheri as she delves into the heart of inclusive education on the Inclusive Pathways with DJ Nicholson. DJ brings her extensive experience in special education and her passion for creating inclusive learning environments to the forefront. DJ uncovers the transformative power of inclusive education through thought-provoking conversations and insightful interviews. Explore strategies, stories, and real-world examples that highlight the impact of individualized instruction, assistive technology, collaborative communities, and innovative assessment methods. Discover how to turn the word "inclusive" into a comprehensive blueprint for cultivating a sense of belonging, fostering growth, and ensuring success for every student. Join the journey on the Inclusive Pathways and unlock the potential of inclusive education for all.
    https://www.inclusiveology.com/

    Thewritingglitch.com
    cheridotterer.com
    Register for the next Introduction to Dysgraphia Webinar

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  • In this episode, Cheri engages in an insightful conversation with Pam Kasner, the distinguished literacy lead at the Pennsylvania Training and Technical Assistance Network (PATTAN). They unravel the mysteries of structured literacy, its vital role in transforming education, and the upcoming legislative initiatives shaping the teaching landscape. They share strategies, stories, and invaluable insights to empower educators and parents.

    Whether you're an educator, a parent, or someone eager to understand the world of literacy and dysgraphia better, this podcast is your compass to navigate these intricacies. Discover practical tips, eye-opening research, and inspiring success stories that will light your path toward helping every learner unlock their true potential. Join us in the quest to foster literacy for all, one podcast episode at a time.


    PaTTAN
    Contact Pam

    TheWritingGlitch.com

    CheriDotter.com

    Register for our next Introduction to Dysgraphia Webinar

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  • Welcome to the last episode of the Emotional Kids Summit - Special Edition of The Writing Glitch podcast.

    Jonily and I are back for our last interview. Today, we share your Next Best Steps for getting involved with Math DYSconnected.


    Listen to the episode and join The Companion Course to receive more information about each guest.

    If you’d like to see the interview on video and learn more about Math DYSconnected, join the Companion Course to this series. Here is the link.

    Inside the Companion Course, we are offering amazing bonus materials. Some of these resources include:

    Complimentary call with CheriA chance to join the Math DYSConnected book launch teamAccess to The Purple X mini-courseComplimentary ticket to the Introduction to Dysgraphia WebinarComplimentary ticket to Small Group Math InterventionsComplimentary ticket to Saturday MathTwo-part on-demand webinar on dysgraphia and dyscalculia with the option to receive CEUsFree downloadable resources

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  • Welcome to today’s interview on the Emotional Kids Summit.

    In this interview, April discusses her journey of learning American Sign Language (ASL) and the importance of communication for her and her daughters. She shares her experience attending a publishing conference where she met Cheri in 2018 and how they connected through their shared interest in education and their perspectives on push-in therapy models. April also talks about her involvement in setting up a charter school with an emphasis on autism, where they had a unique approach of having occupational therapists push into classrooms and work directly with students and teachers. She highlights the benefits of this model for students' self-regulation and handwriting skills.

    The interview takes a turn as Cheri mentions their upcoming book collaboration, Math DYSconnected with Jonily Zupancic, where April serves as a ghostwriter. April expresses her excitement about the project and how it has been a fulfilling experience for her. She then transitions to discussing her first book, a memoir detailing her experience of domestic abuse in her previous marriage. April emphasizes the importance of sharing personal stories to create connections and understanding. She talks about the challenges and complexities of domestic violence, including the mix of mental health issues, substance abuse, and the lack of logic in abusive behaviors.

    April also shares insights on how teachers can recognize signs of potential abuse in their students, such as observing their interactions, emotional behavior, and imaginary play. She emphasizes the need for building relationships, asking questions, and being a supportive listener. April explains the concept of survivorship and the role of supporters in helping individuals escape abusive situations. She highlights the importance of empathy, non-judgment, and providing a positive and supportive environment.

    The interview concludes with a discussion about April's resources and toolkit for supporters, focusing on effective communication and relationship-building. April encourages teachers and therapists to connect with students and parents, showing empathy and understanding. She provides advice on navigating the reporting process, building trust, and being a source of hope and light for those who have experienced abuse. April emphasizes the significance of emotional and social regulation and the need to listen and respond to students' behaviors and needs.

    If you’d like to see the interview on video and more information about her Supporters Toolkit, join the Companion Course to this series. Here is the link.

    Inside the Companion Course, we are offering amazing bonus materials. Some of these resources include:

    Complimentary call with CheriA chance to join the Math DYSConnected book launch teamAccess to The Purple X mini-courseComplimentary ticket to the Introduction to Dysgraphia WebinarComplimentary ticket to Small Group Math InterventionsComplimentary ticket to Saturday MathTwo-part on-demand webinar on dysgraphia and dyscalculia with the option to receive CEUsFree downloadable resources

    Plus, the resources that Ms. Giauque shared today in this episode.

    ★ Support this podcast ★
  • Welcome to today’s interview on the Emotional Kids Summit.

    Cindy Frederdick-Fulton is an occupational therapy asistant. She owns an organic farm and provides a therapeutic riding program. She has discovered a program that integrates riding and writing and has put her program online. She provides a virtual experience for kids based in the city who cannot make it to her farm.

    If you’d like to see the interview on video, join the Companion Course to this series. Here is the link.

    Inside the Companion Course, we are offering amazing bonus materials. Some of these resources include:

    Complimentary call with CheriA chance to join the Math DYSConnected book launch teamAccess to The Purple X mini-courseComplimentary ticket to the Introduction to Dysgraphia WebinarComplimentary ticket to Small Group Math InterventionsComplimentary ticket to Saturday MathTwo-part on-demand webinar on dysgraphia and dyscalculia with the option to receive CEUsFree downloadable resources

    Plus, the resources that Ms. Frederick-Fulton shared today in this episode.

    ★ Support this podcast ★