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Behavior Support Specialist Role Mastered
The Role of a Behavior Support Specialist. How do they Support Schools? We have those answers in the February episode of the Edufaith Essentials Podcast, which delivers essential knowledge with featured guest Melvin Middleton Jr., who shares expert insight on behavioral intervention and inclusive school systems. The discussion highlights the evolving role of the Behavior Support Specialist, the use of proactive behavior supports, and the alignment of practices with PBIS, IDEA
Nakia Cotton
Apr 41 min read


Behavior Supports-Breaks are Essential with Deescalation
Listen as Dr. Melvin Middleton, Jr. breaks down the powerful benefits of restorative practices on the February Edufaith Essentials Podcast—sharing practical strategies for building accountability, belonging, and stronger school communities. ▶️ Watch the full episode: https://youtu.be/fooren21IlQ?si=cAThPrE2hnAA6ay1 🎧 Or listen here: https://bit.ly/4kfIVjx #PBIS #principalsofig #specialneedsparents #podcastshow #podcast #schoolculture #teacherspayteachers #podcastersof
Nakia Cotton
Apr 41 min read


Restorative Practices for Behavior
Restorative practices shift behavior from punishment to growth. In this episode, Dr. Melvin Middleton, Jr. explains how restorative approaches strengthen relationships, improve school culture, and support student success. ▶️ Watch: https://youtu.be/fooren21IlQ?si=cAThPrE2hnAA6ay1 🎧 Listen: https://bit.ly/4kfIVjx #BehaviorSupport #SpecialEducation #InclusiveEducation #IEP #Section504 #EducationLeadership #ParentAdvocacy #PBIS #schoolculture #podcast #InclusiveSchools #beha
Nakia Cotton
Apr 41 min read


Behind the Behavior-Restorative Practices Matter
February Edufaith Essentials Podcast This month’s episode features Dr. Melvin Middleton Jr., a behavioral interventionist and author, who shares essential knowledge on behavior supports, inclusive practices, and building school systems where students can thrive academically and socially. A must-listen for parents, educators, and education leaders. #getessential #Edufaith #InclusiveEducation #BehaviorSupport #SpecialEducation #EducationMatters #BehaviorSupportSpecialist.
Nakia Cotton
Apr 41 min read


Behavior Supports are Essential
Unlock the secrets to effective behavior management! In our February episode, Dr. Melvin Middleton Jr. shares invaluable strategies for educators and parents alike! Let’s work together to foster positive environments for our kids. Join the conversation! #getessential #EducationMatters #SupportOurTeachers #InclusiveClassrooms #EducationPodcast #EducationLeadership #SocialEmotionalLearning #behaviorintervention #principalsofig #PositiveBehaviorSupport
Nakia Cotton
Apr 41 min read


Sensory-Friendly Leadership Tips
Leaders, this tip is for you! Link: https://bit.ly/3W2cv0S YouTube: https://lnkd.in/eQyzuzWX Kendall Autism Support and Consulting, LLC www.kendallasc.org Books: Strategies and Knowledge Workbook for Supporting Individuals on the Autism Spectrum Building Bridges: The Autism Support Workbook #getessential #autism #autismawareness #podcast #podcastshow #neurodivergent #neurodiversity #sensorylearning #educationalleadership #teachersfollowteachers #teachersofig #paren
Nakia Cotton
Apr 41 min read


Sensory-Friendly Teacher Tips
Teacher Tips! To learn more: Episode Link: https://bit.ly/3W2cv0S or YouTube: https://youtu.be/xTuVTqqtsDM Tanyika Mayhew Butler Kendall Autism Support and Consulting, LLC www.kendallasc.org #getessential #podcast #podcastersofinstagram #spedtribe #spedteachers #spedteachersofinstagram #educatorsofinstagram #blackeducators #sensorylearning #autismawareness #educational #specialneeds #teachertips #schoolcounselors
Nakia Cotton
Apr 41 min read


Senory-Friendly Knowledge for Parents
Check out some awesome advice and handy tips on making cozy spaces for kids with sensory sensitivities. This episode is perfect for parents who want to boost their child's learning and happiness, featuring the amazing Tanyika Mayhew Butler! Don't miss it—click here: Link: https://bit.ly/3W2cv0S YouTube: https://youtu.be/xTuVTqqtsDM #getessential #autism #autismawareness #podcast #podcastshow #neurodivergent #neurodiversity #sensorylearning #educationalleadership #teachersfoll
Nakia Cotton
Apr 41 min read


Sensory-Friendly Learning Matters
Let’s warm up with knowledge this January as we learn about sensory-friendly learning environments. Episode Link: https://bit.ly/3W2cv0S or YouTube: https://youtu.be/xTuVTqqtsDM Tanyika Mayhew Butler Kendall Autism Support and Consulting, LLC www.kendallasc.org #getessential #podcast #blackeducators #section504 #educators #autism #specialeducation #neurodiversity #sensorylearning #schoolcounselorsofinstagram #educatorsofinstagram #principalsofinstagram #principal
Nakia Cotton
Apr 41 min read


Sensory Friendly Learning Environments
The conversation is still going strong! Let's not make assumptions, but let's share to uplift our students. Remember to like and reshare! Link: https://bit.ly/3W2cv0S YouTube: https://youtu.be/xTuVTqqtsDM Tanyika Mayhew Butler Kendall Autism Support and Consulting, LLC www.kendallasc.org #getessential #autism #autismawareness #podcast #podcastshow #neurodivergent #neurodiversity #sensorylearning #educationalleadership #teachersfollowteachers #teachersofig #parenting #parentin
Nakia Cotton
Apr 41 min read


Let the Data do the Talking!
YouTube: https://youtu.be/kZn-XykNvto https://www.buzzsprout.com/1961645/episodes/18454814 #BehaviorSupport #BehaviorSupportPodcast #PositiveBehaviorSupport #PBIS #behaviorintervention #principalsofinstagram #principals #getessential #educatorsofinstagram #specialeducationteachersofinstagram #schoolpsychologists #SchoolCulture
Nakia Cotton
Apr 41 min read


Behavior is not the problem—it’s the message.
By taking a moment to understand the reasons behind a behavior, we open the door to support instead of punishment. Positive Behavior Supports emphasize that connection, clarity, and consistency drive genuine change. Watch: https://youtu.be/kZn-XykNvto Listen: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1961645/episodes/18454814 #teachersofthegram #blackeducators #teachersupporteachers #teachersofig #principalsofig #teachersofinstagram #schoolpsychologistintern #podcastersofig #Positiv
Nakia Cotton
Apr 41 min read


Positive behavior is taught
Positive behavior is taught, supported, and strengthened—never assumed. Through Positive Behavior Supports and PBIS, schools and families can reset expectations, reduce barriers, and create environments where every learner feels safe, valued, and ready to succeed. New year, new behaviors, new possibilities. Watch: https://youtu.be/kZn-XykNvto Listen: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1961645/episodes/18454814 #PositiveBehaviorSupport #PBIS #InclusiveEducationmatters #SpecialEducatio
Nakia Cotton
Apr 41 min read


New Norms: Reset, Reboot, and Refocus with Behavior
Kick off the year with positivity! Tune into our January episode of Edufaith Essentials titled "New Year, New Norms: Reset, Reboot, and Refocus." Discover how a Special Needs Holiday Formal created joy and a sense of belonging for children! 🎉 Join the conversation and let us know your thoughts! 👉 Watch now: https://youtu.be/kZn-XykNvto Listen: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1961645/episodes/18454814 #teachersofig #podcastersofig #podcastshow #principalsofinstagram #educator
Nakia Cotton
Apr 41 min read


Celebrating Black History Month
Black History Month, observed every February, is a time to celebrate African Americans' rich history, culture, and achievements. This month offers an opportunity for reflection, education, and appreciation for the significant contributions made by Black individuals throughout history. As we delve into the stories of resilience, innovation, and leadership, we honor the past and strive for a more inclusive and equitable future. Education is a cornerstone of Black History Month.
Nakia Cotton
Feb 23, 20241 min read


February is a Time to Set Goals and Celebrate Diversity
Resolutions and aspirations for personal growth and achievement often accompany the start of a new year. While many adults engage in this tradition, parents of students with disabilities can leverage the power of goal-setting to empower their children and foster a sense of accomplishment. In this blog post, we'll explore the value of SMART goal setting for students with disabilities, offering tips for parents, educators, and leaders on facilitating this transformative process
Nakia Cotton
Feb 23, 20241 min read
Tips and Wisdom for the week of February 5th
As we journey into the 2nd month of February, I want to provide some tips and wisdom for the week: Parents as you set your goals and intentions for 2024 remember goals are categorized as follows: Self-Care & Well-Being Advocacy & Education Family & Community Support I explain how these goals support visions of success for students with exceptionalities on the latest When we consider our essential wisdom tips I want to share the message: While resolutions are centered on reac
Nakia Cotton
Feb 8, 20241 min read


Wisdom Wednesday Section 504
Students who receive services under Section 504 have Disciplinary Protections. Section 504—Limits excessive out-of-school disciplinary removals that constitute a significant change in placement. Section 504 teams must conduct Manifestation Determination meetings to discuss the infraction and the relation to the disability.
Nakia Cotton
Jan 18, 20241 min read


Wisdom Wednesday
The Office for Civil Rights (OCR) monitors, enforces and investigates Section 504 compliance. Section 504 aims to prohibit discrimination against individuals based on a disability. To learn more, listen to the latest episode of the Edufaith Essentials Podcast. https://bit.ly/4aNk1SS
Nakia Cotton
Jan 10, 20241 min read


Essential Tip Tuesday for Parents
Get involved in the Section 504 Process. Request a draft of the proposed 504 plan before the meeting. Ask questions if you are unsure about anything. Parents have rights. Exercise your rights. To learn more, listen to the latest episode of the Edufaith Essentials Podcast.
Nakia Cotton
Jan 9, 20241 min read
Edufaith Blog
The Edufaith blog provides practical insights and research-based strategies for educators, school leaders, and parents supporting diverse learners. Drawing from the Essential Tips book series, our articles explore topics such as inclusive leadership, special education best practices, Section 504 coordination, MTSS implementation, and effective family–school partnerships. Whether you are seeking professional development ideas, classroom strategies, or guidance on navigating IEPs and accommodations, the Edufaith blog offers resources designed to strengthen inclusive education and support student success.
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