Special Education Summer Institute 2025

Non-speaking does not mean non-reading. This dynamic, hands-on session empowers educators with practical strategies to deliver phonics and literacy instruction to students with complex communication needs. Participants will rotate through engaging stations that model accessible tools like AAC, eye-gaze boards, and alternate pencils. You’ll learn how to build phonological awareness, support independent reading, and assess literacy without relying on oral responses. Walk away with materials, ideas, and confidence to help every learner find their voice through literacy.

Join us for an engaging and meaningful quest into the world of trauma-informed teaching, designed specifically for educators working with students who have intellectual disabilities. In this interactive session, we’ll uncover how trauma impacts learning and behavior, especially for students who may communicate and experience the world differently. You'll gain practical, compassionate strategies to co-regulate, build trust, and support healing—while also taking care of yourself in the process.

While this session focuses on students with Intellectual Disabilities, the content can be adapted to support any student who has experienced trauma

Trigger Warning: There will be mention of trauma and abuse in this session.

Dive into the dynamic world of literacy instruction by Drs. Karen Erickson and David Koppenhaver by exploring their book “Comprehensive Literacy for All” along with updated information from the Comprehensive Literacy for All conference. This course will explore evidence-based practices and strategies to foster comprehensive literacy skills in diverse learners. Participants will start to explore the foundational principles of literacy development, including phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension, while gaining practical tools for differentiation and individualized instruction.

This session will provide time to review IEPs and complete the student planning grid for students with the support of facilitators. Time to create materials to match student needs will also be provided. 
 
*Participants must have attended at least one of the sessions listed:  
Physical Structures and Visual Supports, Schedules and Routines, Independent Work Systems, or Delivering Instruction and Answering the 4 Questions