 Fifty special education teachers from across Kentucky came together to strengthen specially designed instruction and improve outcomes for students with disabilities at the first Kaleidoscope Community of Practice summer session, conducted by the Kentucky Department of Education’s Office of Special Education and Early Learning. Photo by Rebecca Turner, Kentucky Department of Education
(FRANKFORT, KY) – The Kentucky Department of Education’s (KDE’s) Office of Special Education and Early Learning launched the first Kaleidoscope Community of Practice summer session on July 16-17, bringing together 50 special education teachers from across Kentucky to strengthen specially designed instruction and improve outcomes for students with disabilities.
This two-day event kicked off the third cohort of the Kaleidoscope Community of Practice and marked the program’s first dedicated summer learning series. The event provided educators with an opportunity to deepen their understanding of specially designed instruction, collaborate with colleagues from across the Commonwealth and build practical skills to support the diverse needs of students with disabilities.
As the foundation of special education services, specially designed instruction is tailored to meet the unique needs of each student with a disability. During the summer session, educators explored evidence-based practices and instructional planning strategies to increase student engagement, access and achievement. Participants reflected on current practices, identified areas for growth and developed plans to strengthen implementation of specially designed instruction in the upcoming school year.
To support classroom application, participants received classroom teacher kits containing math, literacy and behavior-support resources. The kits included instructional and intervention tools designed to help educators immediately implement evidence-based practices and better support students with disabilities in their classrooms.
The summer session brought together special education teachers representing a variety of grade levels, certifications and geographic regions. By connecting educators from across Kentucky, the Kaleidoscope Community of Practice promotes professional networking, collaboration and the sharing of effective instructional practices.
Participants will continue their learning throughout the school year through two follow-up professional learning sessions focused on implementation, problem-solving and continuous improvement. Through this community of practice, educators will remain connected with peers across the state, share successes and challenges, and learn from one another's experiences as they apply new strategies in their classrooms.
For more information about the Kaleidoscope Community of Practice, contact Rebecca Turner.
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