Welcoming a new student mid-year can feel overwhelming, especially when balancing multiple responsibilities in special education. Whether you’re supporting students in general education or a self-contained setting, a smooth transition is key to helping them feel included from day one.

Start by reviewing the student’s IEP and creating an IEP-at-a-Glance to share with general education teachers and support staff. Clear communication ensures everyone is on the same page about accommodations and expectations.

Collaborate with the general education teacher to discuss classroom modifications and support strategies. Teaching expectations explicitly and using visuals or social stories can help ease the transition. If possible, assign a peer buddy or create structured opportunities for social interaction to help the student feel welcomed.

The transition doesn’t end after the first week—continue checking in and making adjustments as needed. With thoughtful planning and ongoing support, you can create a welcoming environment that helps your new student succeed.

What are your go-to strategies for welcoming a new student? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Episode Highlights:

• Review the IEP & Create an IEP-at-a-Glance – Focus on key accommodations, services, and goals to ensure smooth implementation in the general education classroom.
• Collaborate with the General Education Teacher – Work together to set up supports, discuss classroom routines, and ensure the student’s needs are met without disrupting the flow of the class.
• Teach & Reinforce Expectations – Your new student missed the beginning-of-the-year routines, so reteaching classroom expectations benefits everyone.
• Build Rapport First – Before jumping into academics, take time to connect with the student, learn their strengths, and find reinforcers that will help keep them engaged and motivated.

Resources Mentioned:

• IEP-AT-A-GLANCE
• Data collection sheets
• Free training: 3 Simple and Powerful Ways to Cultivate Independence in Your Special Education Classroom
  

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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 to increase student independence, check out Lisa's FREE training.