Preparing for Success: The Importance of Training and Preparing for the 2024-25 School Year

 As the 2023-24 school year comes to a close, it's a time for reflection and preparation. At Practical Solutions for behavior and instruction LLC, it is understood that the end of one school year marks the beginning of planning for the next. Training is a crucial part of this planning process, ensuring that educators and staff are equipped with practical solutions to face new challenges head on. Using ABA strategies to build effective programs can benefit all.

• Reflection 
• Evaluate Successes and Challenges: A review of the past year will guide the plans for the next. This is a critical step for efficiency and effectiveness. 
• Identify Training Needs: Consider what didn't work and the areas where training can fill the gaps.  Also consider what did work for existing staff. New staff may require training in those areas. 

• The Value of Training-Planning for 2024-25
• Proactive Skill Development: Training from ahead/at the start of the year will ensure staff are well prepared. This will foster confidence and reduce stress levels allowing the focus to be on students. It also sets the stage for program expectations and philosophies.
• Adaptation to Change: Training in advance is important for helping educators adapt to any new policies or methods introduced in 2024-25.
• Building Confidence: Training aids in boosting the confidence of educators, enabling them to enter the new school year with a positive mindset.

• Practical Solutions Offered by Practical Solutions for behavior and instruction LLC
• Customized Training Programs
• Evidence Based Strategies
• Flexible Learning Options 

• Preparing for Behavioral Challenges
• Behavioral Interventions: As one of the leading barriers to student learning, behavioral challenges require an understanding of behavior in order to plan and respond appropriately.  This will save time, energy, and social emotional implications. 
• Reinforcement Techniques: As one of the most impactful and productive methods of addressing behavior challenges, it is more difficult that it seems. Reinforcement requires an understanding of behavior, individuals, and its counterpart- punishment. Lacking the knowledge can lead to negative environments and undesired outcomes.

• Progressive ABA *Not only for students with autism/neurodiversity
• Evidence Based Teaching Strategies: Teaching the way students learn (behaviorally: positive behavior/learning how to learn-foundational learning skills/academics).
• Classroom Management Skills: Most understand the basics but what about the rest? Critical components often missed when planning and executing.

• Real-World Success Stories
• Effective Outcomes:
• 5-day workshop: prerequisite for advanced training: overall staff rating 4.8 out of 5
• Full class take over- 3-10 days: chaos to calm
• Partial class takeover- 1 hour per day for 10 days: structure and behavior programs
• Class lab intensive training- individual programs and training model for classes

Conclusion

Training is critical for staff but often undervalued. Effective training that addresses the needs outlined above is typically a process rather than a one-time, check-the-box event. Studies suggest that didactic training alone has 0% classroom application, while training combined with coaching, consultation, and administration support boasts a 95% carryover, especially when working with motivated and reinforced trainees. 

At Practical Solutions for behavior and instruction LLC, training is customized to the wants and needs, strengths, and weaknesses of each client. With extensive experience in a progressive approach to Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) for school settings and staff training, the outcomes are lasting. Students learn, staff teach, and families are satisfied. The methods taught are evidence based, compassionate, fun, and practical. *sample feedback from participants of 5-day workshops.

Progressive ABA in the School Setting: My Personal Experience

This week’s blog is more personal, reflecting on my journey as a learning teacher. I believe an overwhelming majority of teachers enter the profession because they genuinely want to "do good" for students. But what are the barriers to meaningful education? Over the years, I've discovered there isn't a single answer to that question. However, several key issues stand out:

1. Lack of Meaningful Education/Training: Many teachers are not adequately prepared for the current educational climate. The training often falls short of equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge beyond the adopted curriculums and basics of a classroom.

2. Low Expectations: There are often low expectations for both educators and students. This can stifle potential and hinder progress. 

3. Inadequate Mentorship: Effective mentors are crucial, yet they are often in short supply. New teachers need guidance and support from exceptional teachers to develop their abilities.

4. Unrealistic Expectations for Entry-Level Teachers: Expecting new teachers to be experts right away results in weak training opportunities. Instead of learning and growing, they are often overwhelmed and underprepared.

Our mission as educators is to facilitate learning that will lead to a meaningful life, but the business of education often contradicts this goal.

I began teaching in 2006 as an intern for a 1st/2nd grade moderate to severe special day class specifically designed for students with autism. As a mother of a child with Spina Bifida, I initially imagined myself teaching a class for students with Orthopedic Impairment. This was where my experience lay. Instead, I accepted a position in a field where I had no experience. I did not mind, because I was eager and motivated.

I was blessed to have an experienced, driven mentor and colleague. Without her, I would not be where I am today. She taught me to be systematic, always teach, have high expectations, remain patient, and ask for help. She was a top-notch model for me. She was trained in (rigid) ABA, which I had never heard of at the time. She was then trained in the TEACCH model, that we used until 2011 when we were introduced to what is now known as a
progressive approach to ABA.

The intensive training we received from Autism Partnership changed my career and the outlook I had for my students. This wasn't some mystical secret. It was (is) simply good stuff. This was (is) quality at its finest.

Through this progressive approach to ABA, I learned how to effectively implement evidence-based practices, leading to significant improvements in my students' progress. It reinforced the importance of high expectations and the need for ongoing, meaningful professional development.

Upon completing the six-day intensive hands-on workshop, I immediately began implementing what I had learned, supported by monthly consultations with Autism Partnership. While I was still a novice, I applied the principles and techniques from the training and continued to learn along the way. I guided my own staff step-by-step through the process, sharing my experiences and knowledge as I gained them. Initially, my team thought I was out of my mind, but they trusted me. After only two weeks, they recognized the progress our students were making and were 100% committed to ABA.

As the years went on, we continued learning and implementing new strategies. Our commitment to ABA and ongoing professional development allowed us to see remarkable improvements in our students' progress. This journey has reinforced my belief in the power of progressive ABA and the importance of quality training and support in achieving meaningful educational outcomes.

In 2014 I have accepted a position as Program Specialist for Autism and in 2023 founded Practical Solutions for Behavior and Instruction LLC. Through my experiences as both a learner and a trainer, I have collaborated with my colleagues to further develop intensive training programs for my district and business.

In conclusion, while there are many barriers to meaningful education, they can be overcome with the right training, support, and mindset. As educators, it is our duty to seek out and embrace these opportunities to ensure that we provide the best possible education for our students.

How to get ahead of training deficits in schools- Progressive ABA for the school setting

 In today's educational landscape, addressing training deficits in schools is crucial for ensuring that all students, especially those with special needs, receive the highest quality education. Progressive Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) offers a comprehensive approach to achieving this goal. However, implementing such a robust training program requires careful planning, starting from a manageable point and expanding thoughtfully over time.

Starting Point: Laying the Foundation

The first step in overcoming training deficits is identifying a starting point that allows for a manageable rollout. Begin by selecting a small, dedicated group of staff and a few classrooms to participate in an initial intensive training program. This pilot group will serve as the foundation upon which the broader training initiative is built.

Key Steps to Begin:

1. Identify Key Participants:

   • Select a core group of educators and support staff who are enthusiastic and committed to improving their skills through ABA.
   • Consider participants from a variety of classrooms to provide a diverse range of experiences and insights.

2. Develop a Comprehensive Training Plan:

   • Collaborate with experienced ABA professionals to create a detailed training curriculum. Practical Solutions for behavior and instruction LLC
   • Include both didactic sessions and hands-on practice to ensure participants can apply theoretical knowledge in real-world classroom settings.

Intensive Training: Building Competence

Once the initial group is selected, it's time to dive into intensive training. This phase is critical for building a solid understanding of ABA principles and practices.

Components of Intensive Training:

1. Didactic Sessions:

   • Start with foundational lectures covering key ABA concepts, delivered by experts in the field. Practical Solutions for behavior and instruction LLC
   • Focus on evidence-based practices and the progressive approach to ABA.

2. Hands-On Practice:

   • Provide opportunities for participants to work directly with students under supervision.
   • Emphasize the correct implementation of ABA techniques, such as reinforcement strategies, behavior identification, and token systems.

3. Ongoing Support:

   • Arrange for regular follow-up sessions and consultations to reinforce learning and address challenges.
   • Create a network of support among participants to foster collaboration and continuous improvement.

Expanding the Program: Ensuring Long-Term Success

The process of addressing training deficits is ongoing and requires a gradual, systematic approach to ensure long-term success.

Steps to Expand the Training Program:

1. Evaluate and Adjust:

   • After the initial training phase, evaluate the outcomes and gather feedback from participants.
   • Use this information to refine the training curriculum and address any gaps or challenges.

2. Scale Up Gradually:

   • Expand the training program to include more staff and classrooms, based on the successful outcomes of the pilot group.
   • Continue to provide intensive training and support to new participants.
   • Identify staff within the district who have become sophisticated enough to be a trainer or select staff to be trained as trainers. 

3. Foster a Culture of Learning:

   • Encourage a school-wide culture that values continuous learning and improvement.
   • Provide ongoing professional development opportunities and resources to sustain the momentum.

The Importance of Thorough and Manageable Implementation

Implementing a progressive ABA training program is not a quick fix but a long-term commitment. Taking the time to do it thoroughly and manageably ensures that the changes are sustainable and impactful.

Key Takeaways:

• Start Small: Begin with a pilot group to establish a strong foundation.
• Intensive Training: Invest in comprehensive training that combines theoretical knowledge with practical application.
• Gradual Expansion: Scale up the program thoughtfully to ensure manageable growth.
• Ongoing Support: Provide continuous support and professional development to maintain progress.

By following these steps, schools can effectively address training deficits and create an environment where all students have the opportunity to succeed. Progressive ABA provides the tools and framework needed to make lasting, positive changes in the educational setting.

Empowering Educators: The Essential Role of Quality Training in Progressive ABA

 The landscape of public school classrooms is evolving rapidly. With increasing diversity in student needs and the rising prevalence of special education services, educators face new challenges daily. Once of the most pressing issues is the management of behavioral challenged related to disabilities. Despite teachers' best efforts, the lack of quality training in a progressive approach to Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) often leaves staff ill-prepared to handle these complexities effectively. 

The Need for Quality Training

The gap in quality training for teachers is a critical issue. Teacher preparation programs often provide limited instruction on managing behavioral challenges, and ongoing professional development opportunities may not be sufficient. In fact those providing "in-house" professional development may not have received quality training themselves. As a result, many educators enter the classroom without the necessary tools to support students with behavioral challenges effectively. 

Quality training in a progressive approach to ABA can empower teachers to address these challenges head-on. Such training equips educators with:

• Understanding Behavioral Principles: Teachers learn the fundamental principles of behavior, including how behaviors are learned and maintained. This understanding is crucial for developing effective intervention strategies.
• Assessment Skills: Proper training teaches educators how to assess basic functions of behavior accurately. Understanding the underlying reasons for a behavior is key to addressing it effectively. *more in-depth analysis in the form of an FBA is sometimes also necessary.
• Intervention Strategies: Educators can benefit from quality training in evidence-based practices of ABA such as reinforcement and punishment procedures, prompting and prompt fading, discrete trial teaching, and functional communication training.  These common interventions are widely known about, widely misunderstood, and staff are all too often not adequately trained in the area. As a result forms of the interventions may be implemented but doing so incorrectly and providing undesirable outcomes. 
• Data Collection and Analysis: Effective behavior management requires at least some data collection and analysis, as do the goals that are written into an IEP. Quality training helps teachers develop these skills, enable them to monitor progress and adjust interventions as needed. 
• Collaboration and Communication: A Progressive ABA approach emphasizes the importance of collaboration among educators, parents, and specialists. Training programs often include components on effective communication and teamwork to ensure a holistic approach to behavior management. 

Moving Forward

To create truly inclusive classrooms where all students can thrive, we must invest in quality training for educators. Schools and districts should prioritize professional development in progressive ABA approaches, ensuring that teachers have the skills and knowledge they need to support students with behavioral challenges.

Moreover, policymakers and education leaders must recognize the importance of this training and allocate resources accordingly. This investment will pay dividends in the form of improved classroom environments, better educational outcomes for ALL students, better staff retention rates, and more confident, effective teachers.

In conclusion, the changing dynamics of public school classrooms call for a renewed focus on quality training in a progressive approach to ABA. By empowering educators with the right tools and knowledge, we can create inclusive, supportive learning environments that meet the needs of every student. A progressive approach to ABA is quality teaching for all students and necessary for those with behavioral challenges which interfere with learning, communication, and healthy social relationships. We are already falling behind in this area at the cost of student success, teacher burnout, and family concerns. Now, is the time for change.