Getting Organized – Autism Classroom Set Up

In this episode of Teach Task Box Inspire, a mini-series on setting up an effective Autism Classroom is introduced! This is the very first episode out of 8, that will go over all the tips and tricks for setting up an effective Autism classroom.

Take a listen to hear all about my extensive experience in special education. I have started multiple autism programs across different school districts. Throughout this mini-series, I will cover classroom structure, organization strategies, communication methods, and managing paraprofessionals.

Whether you are new to the autism classroom or not, this episode and this mini-series are worth listening to!

Episode Highlights:

• Setting Up IEPs and Teacher Binder:
  • Lisa emphasizes the importance of starting with students' Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). 
• Strategizing Paraprofessional Roles:
  • Understanding the roles and responsibilities of each paraprofessional, whether one-to-one or program assistants, is crucial for effective classroom management.
• Grouping Students and Behavior Considerations:
  • Teachers are encouraged to strategically group students based on their goals and behavioral compatibility. 
• Centers and Instructional Setup:
  • The episode delves into the importance of center-based instruction tailored to diverse student needs. Lisa highlights the key centers—group, teacher-led, para-led, and independent work systems (IWS)—that should be integrated into the classroom setup.

Resources Mentioned:

• Teacher Binder Resource:
• Center Ideas Blog Post:
• Data Sheet Bundle
• Free training: 3 Simple and Powerful Ways to Cultivate Independence in Your Special Education Classroom for IWS Training

Connect with Me:

• Instagram: @chalkboard_superhero
• Join my Facebook group, Special Education Superheroes
• Join my email list
• Shop my TPT store
• Join the Teach, Taskbox, Inspire Membership

More About Teach, Task Box, Inspire: The Podcast:

Teach, Task Box, Inspire: The Podcast is your go-to educational podcast dedicated to making your job as a special education teacher easier and more enjoyable. Your host, Lisa Hollady, is a veteran special education teacher with a passion for helping teachers like you make a real difference in the lives of your students.

In your demanding roles, you’re constantly juggling various responsibilities, from differentiated instruction and Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) to data collection, and, of course, teaching. That’s where task boxes come in.

Task boxes aren’t just teaching tools. They’re the key to unlocking student independence, student engagement, and personalized learning. Through this podcast, you’ll uncover the incredible task box benefits for your special needs students and practical implementation tips that you can take to your classroom.

Tune in each Monday for a new episode that will equip you with essential strategies and motivation to approach your week with confidence and enthusiasm. Topics will include task box activities, social and emotional development, adaptive teaching, inclusive teaching, supporting diverse learners, classroom management, scheduling, visual aids, and more.

If you’re looking for more special education resources and support with increasing student independence, check out Lisa's FREE training.