Special Education Pathway for General Education Teachers
This guided microcredential brings together essential SPED concepts, from understanding laws and IEPs to implementing practical accommodations and interventions, so educators can create inclusive learning environments where every student can thrive.
- 10 courses, 15 hours, self-paced
- Taught by Melissa Mann
- Certificate included, up to 15 CE credits
- Access courses on any device
- 1,000+ more courses included
Why Structured SPED Learning Matters
The SPED Microcredential provides a focused, step‑by‑step learning experience that helps teachers build clarity, confidence, and competence in special education. By combining foundational knowledge with real‑world classroom strategies, this microcredential empowers educators to move beyond compliance and toward meaningful, student‑centered support.
Courses in this Microcredential
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1
Introduction to SPED – Terms, Tools & Foundations
Master essential SPED terminology and foundations. Understand IEPs, 504s, and key concepts every classroom teacher needs to know.
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2
Legal Foundations in SPED – Navigating IDEA, ADA & 504s
Navigate IDEA, ADA, and 504 laws in special education. Understand IEP vs. 504 eligibility and advocate confidently for students.
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3
Classroom Accommodations for SPED — Strategies That Work
Manage your classroom with proven behavioral strategies. Build routines and expectations that create a positive learning environment.
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4
Building Positive Relationships with SPED Parents & Teams
Build positive relationships with SPED parents and teams. Master communication, collaboration, and conflict resolution strategies.
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5
Real-World Scenarios & Problem Solving in SPED
Tackle real-world scenarios in special education. Develop problem-solving skills for common SPED challenges with practical, actionable strategies.
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6
Understanding Dyslexia: Early Signs and Strategies for Classroom Success
Understand dyslexia and identify early warning signs in the classroom. Learn practical strategies to support students and create inclusive environments.
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7
Unlocking Potential: Effective Strategies to Support Students with Dyslexia
Support students with dyslexia using evidence-based strategies. Discover tools and techniques to help struggling readers reach their full potential.
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8
Intervention Strategies for Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Design engaging project-based learning experiences. Help students solve real-world problems through authentic projects.
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9
So, You Are a Collaborative Teacher, Now What?
Navigate your new role as a collaborative teacher. Learn strategies for effective co-teaching partnerships that benefit all students in inclusive settings.
Melissa Mann
Melissa Mann, a fourth-grade teacher in the Madison County School System, has experience in general and collaborative education settings. With a Master’s in School Counseling, she has presented at various conferences, both in-person and virtual, for the past 15 years.
Specializes In: Special Education
“The short training videos are perfect to complete during lunch or planning periods. It’s also great to be able to access videos at home or on weekends. I love the fact that there are courses on important current tech topics that we all need right now!”
“Since adopting SimpleK12, we’ve seen an increase in professional development participation. Teachers are more engaged because the content is practical, flexible, and relevant.”
“SimpleK12 makes professional learning actually work with my schedule. I can log in anytime, choose a topic that’s relevant to my classroom, and walk away with strategies I can use the next day.”
“SimpleK12 offers a broad range of training, a variety of presentation styles, generous resources, and concise, professionally delivered lessons. It’s extremely useful!”
Built for District Success
Pathways make it simple to guide teacher growth in a targeted area. Choose a ready-made pathway for a cohort or collaborate with us on a custom pathway tied to your district initiatives. Monitor progress through a dashboard to track achievements.
Talk to an expertSupport Every Learner. Build Inclusive Confidence.
This pathway helps educators strengthen the knowledge and day‑to‑day strategies that make inclusion work: understanding key SPED laws and terminology, implementing classroom accommodations and interventions, and collaborating with families and IEP teams. Learn through video-based instruction, real classroom examples, and reflection that turns uncertainty into confident action.
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