Accelerating Education

How AI is Fixing Special Ed IEPs (and Saving Teachers Hours) ft. Dr. Paul McDonaldAccelerating Education PodcastPaul McDonald, Ed.D.Education Consultantwith host Richard CaponeEpisode P2E4, July 16, 2026
Summary:Tired of endless IEP paperwork taking over your week? In this episode, 35-year education veteran Dr. Paul McDonald reveals how combining diagnostic data with smart AI tools is revolutionizing special education. Learn how one Nevada school district successfully cut documentation time, guaranteed rock-solid compliance, and created personalized learning plans that actually boost student achievement. Whether you're a special educator, school administrator, or EdTech leader, discover how to leverage AI as a powerful assistant—giving teachers their time back so they can focus on what matters most: empowering students.
Key Topics:—The shift from compliance focus to quality instructional data in IEP development—The significance of diagnostic assessments versus traditional grade-level data—How district staff with varied backgrounds, including new teachers and ESL educators, implement AI tools—Using AI loosely to support writing clear, individualized present levels for IEPs—Customizing AI prompts and checklists based on federal, state, and district regulations—The role of ongoing professional development in adapting to AI-supported systems—Developing an AI-powered compliance checklist that integrates with existing IEP forms—Strategies for district-level implementation, approval workflows, and quality control—Future directions: AI-driven IEP review and potential for reducing legal and procedural errors—The importance of trusting data-driven processes and maintaining individualization in special education
Chapters:00:00 - Introduction to AI in IEP Development02:25 - Diagnostic Data vs. Traditional Assessments04:19 - How to Write IEP "Present Levels" Using AI07:06 - Automating Goal Setting & Data Interpretation08:29 - Built-In Compliance: Custom AI Checklists13:34 - Slashing Paperwork & Reclaiming Teacher Time14:34 - Addressing AI Concerns & Preserving Individualization18:15 - Automated Compliance & Quality Assurance Tools25:45 - Legal Safety, Privacy, & De-Identification Processes30:35 - The Future of AI & Equity in Special Education
#SpecialEducation #SPED #TeacherBurnout #IEP #EdTech #AIinEducation #TeacherEmpowerment #SpecialEdTeacher #LetsGoLearn
Sponsored by Let's Go Learn https://www.letsgolearn.com

The Future of Special Ed: AI & Empowerment, with Chad RummelAccelerating Education Podcast 🎙️Chad Rummel, M.Ed, CAEExecutive Director of Council for Exceptional Children (CEC)with host Richard Capone
Episode P2E3, Apr 13, 2026Sponsored by Let's Go Learn https://www.letsgolearn.com
About the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC)CEC (Council for Exceptional Children) - https://exceptionalchildren.org/Connect with the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC): The CEC is the largest professional organization in the world for special educators, offering 18 specialized divisions and chapters in nearly every state.
Summary
In this episode of Accelerating Education, Richard Capone interviews Chad Rummel, Executive Director of CEC, about re-imagining support for special education teachers, the role of AI, and the future of the industry. They discuss innovative tools like the Teacher Empowerment Toolkit, challenges in workload, and strategies to empower educators. As IEPs grow from 4 pages to nearly 30, the "compliance trap" is causing record-breaking burnout. Chad explains how the CEC is fighting back with the Teacher Empowerment Toolkit (TET)—a new CEC member benefit resource designed to slash administrative workload and put the focus back on student instruction.
Key Topics
— Support for special education teachers— The role of AI in education— The Teacher Empowerment Toolkit and technology modernization— Workload reduction and workload management— Future trends and leadership in special education
Chapters
0:00 - Introduction to Chad Rummel & CEC1:18 - Moving from Compliance to Empowerment1:58 - Launching the Teacher Empowerment Toolkit4:41 - The Role of AI in Special Education6:00 - AI in Special Education: Opportunities and Concerns7:54 - How Administrators Can Support Staff8:37 - Addressing Educator Shortages and Future Trajectories9:10 - Solving the Educator Shortage in the Next 5 Years11:51 - CEC's Evolving Leadership and Support for Teachers12:32 - A Message to Overwhelmed Teachers13:15 - How Do You Support Teachers Today?14:43 - Rapid Fire: The Future is Positive17:15 - The Importance of Supporting Teachers, Not Replacing Them17:43 - What Gives Chad the Most Hope Today?
#SpecialEducation #SPED #TeacherBurnout #IEP #EdTech #AIinEducation #CEC #TeacherEmpowerment #SpecialEdTeacher #LetsGoLearn

The "Closed" AI Model in Special Education, with Dr. Angie BalsleyAccelerating Education Podcast 🎙️Guest: Angie Balsley, Ed.D.CEO of Unified LeadershipUnifiedLeadership.orgwith host Richard Capone
Episode P2E2, Feb 19, 2026Sponsored by Let's Go Learn https://www.letsgolearn.com
Summary
In this episode of Accelerating Education, Richard Capone interviews Dr. Angie Balsley, CEO of Unified Leadership, discussing her extensive background in special education and the challenges faced in the field. They explore the importance of relationships and systems in special education, the innovative FAPE Compass tool designed to assist educators, and the future of special education leadership. Dr. Balsley shares insights on the impact of AI in education and the positive feedback from districts using FAPE Compass.
Takeaways
— Dr. Balsley's background in special education is deeply personal and rooted in inclusive practices.— Strong relationships are foundational to effective special education leadership.— The educator shortage is a significant challenge in special education.— FAPE Compass is an AI tool designed to provide instant answers to special education questions.— The tool enhances legal literacy for educators in real-time.— FAPE Compass is tailored to district-specific needs and procedures.— AI can help reduce the cognitive load on special education directors.— Feedback from districts indicates increased confidence and efficiency with FAPE Compass.— The tool aims to empower staff, reducing the need for directors to attend every meeting.— The future of special education may see more streamlined systems through tools like FAPE Compass.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Dr. Angie Balsley01:06 Shaping Philosophy in Special Education02:54 Challenges in Special Education Systems04:35 Innovations in Special Education Leadership06:21 Introducing FAPE Compass10:00 The Future of FAPE Compass in Special Education12:32 Feedback and Success Stories from Districts
 
#SpecialEducation, #LetsGoLearn, #AIinEducation, #EdTech, #FAPE

Accelerating Education Podcast 🎙️Angela Miller, Special Education Teacher, Case Manager, and SSD CoordinatorCarlsbad Municipal School District, New Mexicowith host Richard Capone
Episode P2E1, Feb 19, 2026Sponsored by Let's Go Learn https://www.letsgolearn.com
Stop letting paperwork lead to burnout! Discover how Angela Miller is using the Airma AI Assistant to revolutionize the IEP process and reclaim the "heart" of special education.
In this episode of Accelerating Education, host Richard Capone interviews Angela Miller, a special education teacher, case manager, and SSD coordinator in the Carlsbad Municipal School District in New Mexico. Angela shares her powerful personal journey from being a student with a reading disability to becoming a "Jill of all trades" educator motivated by her own son's autism diagnosis.
We explore the "solution-based" strategies Angela uses to drive student success, including the use of Airma AI, an innovative educational technology tool. She explains how AI in education allows her to create highly individualized education programs (IEP) and progress reports with fidelity, while maintaining data privacy and FERPA compliance.
Whether you are interested in social emotional learning (SEL), effective professional learning communities (PLC), or how to combat teacher burnout, this conversation offers a roadmap for meeting the needs of the "whole child".
Takeaways—Angela's personal experience with special education shaped her career.—Empathy is crucial in building rapport with students.—Teachers often face burnout due to lack of support and resources.—Collaboration among educators enhances student outcomes.—AI can be a powerful tool for personalized learning.—Professional development should focus on the whole child, not just academics.—Finding one's 'why' can help combat teacher burnout.—Data-driven decisions can improve educational practices.—Students should be involved in their own learning processes.—Education is a community effort, requiring collaboration and support.
Chapters
0:00 - Introduction to Angela Miller
0:49 - Angela’s personal journey: From student to teacher
1:42 - A mother’s motivation: Navigating an autism diagnosis
3:56 - Combating teacher burnout with empathy and SEL
7:19 - Collaboration: Building a bridge between SpEd and GenEd
10:48 - How Airma AI is transforming IEPs and data collection
12:04 - The Future of AI in Education
14:38 - Addressing AI privacy and FERPA compliance
17:15 - The future of AI: Giving students autonomy over their data
19:59 - Words of wisdom for hardworking educators 

Featured Resources
Let's Go Learn: Diagnostic data platform for DORA (reading) and ADAM (math) assessments.
Airma AI: The AI assistant helping teachers individualize instruction.
#SpecialEducation, #LetsGoLearn, #AIinEducation, #EdTech

Teaching Kindness Through Animal Welfare with Richard VerlanderAccelerating Education Podcast 🎙️Richard Verlander, Board MemberGoochland Pet Lovers in Richmond, VAwith host Richard Capone
Episode P1E10, Oct 30, 2025Sponsored by Let's Go Learn https://www.letsgolearn.com
Summary
In this episode, Richard Capone interviews Richard Verlander, a founding board member of Goochland Pet Lovers, an animal shelter in Richmond, Virginia. They discuss the transformation of the shelter, the importance of kindness and empathy in education, and the innovative 'Teaching Kindness' initiative that integrates animal welfare into school curriculums. Verlander shares insights on building community partnerships and the impact of their programs on children's behavior and social skills. The conversation highlights the power of animals to unite people and foster positive change in society.
Takeaways
Richard Verlander shares his unexpected journey into animal welfare.Goochland Pet Lovers raised $1.5 million to improve their shelter.The 'Teaching Kindness' program uses animal welfare to teach empathy.Community partnerships are essential for program sustainability.The curriculum is designed to be repeatable and teachable.Animal welfare can help address bullying in schools.Volunteers play a crucial role in the success of the shelter.The program culminates in a visit to the animal shelter.Animals have a unique ability to unite diverse groups of people.There is a need for more positive stories in the media.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Goochland Pet Lovers02:57 The Journey of Transformation05:58 Teaching Kindness: A New Initiative09:02 Building Community Partnerships11:52 Curriculum Development and Implementation15:06 The Impact of Animal Welfare on Behavior17:57 Conclusion and Future Aspirations
Teaching Kindness Programhttps://www.goochlandpetlovers.com/education
Keywords#TeachingKindness, #AnimalWelfare, #EducationPodcast, #GoochlandPetLovers, #EmpathyInEducation, #letsgolearn , #behavioralskills , #AnimalShelter, #RichmondVA, #BullyingPrevention

Bridging the Knowing-Doing Gap: Teacher Ed, AI, and the Future of Special Education with Dr. Jennifer SearsAccelerating Education Podcast 🎙️Dr. Jennifer Sears, Associate ProfessorDepartment of Elementary and Special Education, University of North Georgiawith host Richard Capone
Episode P1E9, Oct 3, 2025Sponsored by Let's Go Learn https://www.letsgolearn.com
Summary
In this conversation, Dr. Jennifer Sears shares her journey into special education, highlighting the importance of advocacy and the evolution of educational practices. She discusses the innovative teacher education program at the University of North Georgia, which prepares students for diverse classroom environments. The conversation also addresses challenges in teacher retention, the role of technology in education, and the importance of embracing new tools and ideas in special education. Dr. Sears emphasizes the need for open-mindedness among special education directors and the value of insights from new teachers.
Takeaways
—Dr. Sears' journey into special education was influenced by her family's advocacy for individuals with disabilities.—The IDEA legislation was significantly impacted by early advocates like Dr. Sears' grandparents.—Dr. Sears emphasizes the importance of practical experience in teacher education programs.—The University of North Georgia's program uniquely certifies students in both elementary and special education.—Teacher retention is a significant challenge, with many new teachers leaving the profession within five years.—Dr. Sears encourages students to remember their 'why' in teaching to combat burnout.—Maintaining a work-life balance is crucial for educators.—Technology can enhance teaching practices, but it requires proper training and integration.—New teachers often bring fresh ideas and technological skills that can benefit experienced educators.—Collaboration between new and experienced teachers can lead to innovative solutions in education.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Special Education Journey03:11 Family Legacy and Advocacy in Special Education05:08 Teacher Education Program Structure12:10 Challenges in Teacher Retention17:15 The Role of Technology in Education24:59 Embracing New Tools in Special Education
#SpecialEducation, #TeacherTraining, #TeacherEd, #IDEA, #EdTech, #ProfessionalDevelopment, #AIinEducation, #TeacherRetention, #DataDrivenInstruction, #LetsGoLearn

Navigating Today’s Special Education with CEC President & UNCG Professor, Dr. Julie BostAccelerating Education Podcast 🎙️Dr. Julie Irene Bost, CEC President, Clinical Associate Professor, UNCGwith host Richard Capone
Episode P1E8, Sep 26, 2025Sponsored by Let's Go Learn https://www.letsgolearn.com
Summary
In this conversation, Richard Capone speaks with Dr. Julie Bost about her extensive experience in special education, the current challenges facing educators, and the importance of support and advocacy for students with disabilities. They discuss the pressing educator shortage, the need for effective professional development, and the impact of funding changes on special education. Dr. Bost emphasizes the significance of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and the positive trends in technology and data utilization in education. The conversation concludes with a message of hope and the importance of community support in the field of special education.
Takeaways
—Dr. Bost has 28 years of experience in special education.—The educator shortage is a significant issue affecting schools.—Teachers need to feel supported to reduce burnout.—Funding for special education is still lacking despite promises.—IDEA has transformed access to education for students with disabilities.—Technology and data are increasingly important in special education.—Professional development needs to be more accessible and relevant.—Less is more when implementing new technologies in schools.—Community support is crucial for educators and students alike.—Celebrating achievements in the profession can foster a positive environment.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Special Education and Personal Journey02:43 Current Challenges in Special Education05:39 Supporting Educators and Professional Development08:48 Funding Changes and Advocacy for IDEA11:39 The Impact of IDEA and Historical Context14:33 Trends in Technology and Data Utilization17:33 Implementation Strategies for New Administrators20:38 Closing Thoughts on Hope and Community Support
#SpecialEducation, #EducatorShortage, #TeacherSupport, #DisabilityAdvocacy, #IDEA, #ProfessionalDevelopment, #EducationTechnology, #StudentSupport, #SPED, #InclusiveEducation

The Role of AI Assistants in Special Education: Richard Capone, CEOAccelerating Education Podcast 🎙️with guest host John Williams
Episode P1E7, Aug 7, 2025Sponsored by Let's Go Learn https://www.letsgolearn.com
Summary
In this episode of Accelerating Education, John Williams and Richard Capone discuss the integration of AI into special education through Let's Go Learn. They explore the maturity of AI technology, the introduction of AI assistants for teachers, and the importance of data-driven approaches in writing Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). Richard emphasizes the significance of context engineering in AI applications, the management of documents, and the support provided to educators. The conversation also touches on future developments in AI for education and how to get started with Let's Go Learn.
Takeaways
—AI is becoming more mature and integrated into education.—Special education leaders need guidance on AI policies.—AI assistants can help with writing IEPs and PLAFs.—Data privacy is crucial when using AI in education.—Context engineering is essential for effective AI use.—Teachers need good data to write effective IEPs.—AI can automate tasks that teachers normally do.—Let's Go Learn provides a document management system.—Professional development and support are available for users.—Future developments will enhance AI capabilities in education.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to AI in Education01:53 AI Assistants in Special Education04:41 The Role of Data in AI Implementation08:04 Context Engineering and AI Writing09:35 Validating AI-written PLAAFPs10:13 Training and Support for Educators16:27 Future Developments in AI for Education19:58 Getting Started with Let's Go Learn22:02 Accelerating Education Outro v03.mp4
#Specialeducation, #LetsGoLearn, #AI, #AIAssistants, #IEPs, #ContextEngineering, #EdTech, #Education, #Teachers

Transforming Special Education Through Urban Agriculture: Teacher Michael CraigAccelerating Education Podcast 🎙️with host Richard Capone
Episode P1E6, June 5, 2025Sponsored by Let's Go Learn https://www.letsgolearn.com
Contacting Michael about his horticulture program kids in special education:Michael CraigDirector, Drew Horticulture ProgramCharles R. Drew Transition CenterDetroit Public Schoolsmichael.craig@detroitk12.org
Summary
In this episode of the Accelerating Education podcast, host Richard Capone interviews Michael Craig, a special education teacher and also the 2025 CEC Teacher of the Year. Michael is the Director of the Drew Horticulture Program at the Charles R. Drew Transition Center. In this podcast, he shares his unique journey from general education to special education, detailing the evolution of his horticulture program that teaches vocational skills to special needs students. The conversation highlights the daily operations of the program, success stories of student engagement with fresh produce, and the challenges faced in securing employment opportunities for these students. Michael offers valuable advice for educators looking to start similar programs and discusses the importance of community involvement and support.
Takeaways
—Michael Craig transitioned from general education to special education for job security.—The horticulture program focuses on teaching vocational skills to special needs students.—Daily operations involve planning tasks based on students' abilities.—The program has successfully introduced hydroponics to accommodate all students.—Monthly tastings help students appreciate fresh produce and culinary skills.—Collaboration with local restaurants has created unique opportunities for students.—Curriculum development is tailored to meet diverse student needs.—Community support is crucial for program sustainability and growth.—Finding employment opportunities for special needs students remains a significant challenge.—Policymakers need to clarify SSI benefits to encourage employment for special needs individuals.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Michael Craig and His Journey07:55 The Horticulture Program's Evolution and Daily Operations17:06 Success Stories and Community Impact23:57 Advice for Educators and Future Aspirations30:11 Challenges and Policy Recommendations
#specialeducation, #horticulture, #vocationaleducation, #FarmToTable, #inclusion, #teacheroftheyear, #detroitpublicschools, #disabilityemployment, #TransitionEducation, #LifeSkills

Revolutionizing Transition Education: Dr. Stacie Dojonovic on Life-Centered Learning 2.0—Accelerating Education Podcast 🎙️with host Richard Capone
Revolutionizing Transition Education: Dr. Stacie Dojonovic on Life-Centered Learning 2.0 | Accelerating Education PodcastEpisode P1E5, May 29, 2025Sponsored by Let's Go Learn https://www.letsgolearn.com
Summary
In this conversation, Richard Capone interviews Dr. Stacie Dojanovic, the executive director of DCDT, about the evolution and importance of transition education for students with disabilities. They discuss the significance of early transition planning, the changes in societal expectations, and the need for explicit teaching of skills that lead to successful post-secondary outcomes. The conversation also highlights the development of Life-Centered Education 2.0 and the integration of technology to enhance teaching practices.
Takeaways—Transition has been a lifelong passion for Dr. Dojanovic.—Transition planning should start as early as possible, ideally at age 14 or 16.—The focus of transition services has evolved from just employment to a broader set of skills.—Explicit teaching of skills is crucial for improving post-school outcomes.—All students, not just those with disabilities, benefit from transition education.—Life-Centered Education 2.0 aims to provide relevant skills for today's society.—Technology integration is essential for effective transition education.—High leverage practices can significantly improve instructional delivery.—Collaboration between educators and researchers is vital for curriculum development.—Continuous adaptation of educational practices is necessary to meet changing societal needs.
Chapters00:00 Introduction to DCDT and Transition Education00:22 Dr. Stacie Dojonovic00:30 How did you get into transition curriculum?00:44 Growing up as a sibling of someone with a disability02:30 Tell us about yourself?03:56 Understanding Transition Planning in Education06:18 Evolution of Transition Services and Expectations11:06 The Importance of Explicit Teaching in Transition Education12:22 Relevance of Life Skills for All Students13:27 Adapting Life-Centered Education for Modern Needs16:28 Overhauling the LCE Curriculum19:08 Integrating Technology and AI in Education
Keywords
transition education, DCDT, special education, life-centered education, high leverage practices, post-secondary outcomes, independent living, evidence-based practices, curriculum development, technology in education
Hashtags#TransitionEducation, #SpecialEducation, #DCDT, #LifeCenteredEducation, #PostSecondarySuccess, #DisabilityAwareness, #EducationTechnology, #EdTech, #CurriculumDevelopment, #InclusiveEducation