NCTIES2020

In 15 years of teaching Special Education I have welcomed all types of challenges. However, I felt like I had time and resources to adequately prepare myself to the point I felt confident enough to lead my students. The challenges of virtual learning and teaching did not come with many best practices resources, the ability to phone an expert, or a how to manual. This was a challenge that I had to rely on my own creative ideas, learning as I go mentality, and of course the feedback from my students, and their families. Teaching a self-contained class with students in grades K-5 served under multiple categories virtually I have found to be fun and exciting full of progress in many areas. I hope by sharing my current experiences, strategies, and lesson ideas you will be able to take away or adapt a few to make the experience just as exciting for you and your students. Keeping students engaged and actively participating throughout the academic year is always a fun challenge, but its even more pronounced with the onset of COVID-19. While there are tons of strategies, one in particular has been successful for the students I teach, especially in a virtual setting. Each year, I've had students help to grow a garden - they enjoy the hands-on work and especially enjoy the "fruits" of their labor. Still there are many other life skills imparted and employed. Its much easier than anyone can imagine, and our strategy has put children in touch with others from all over the country through seed swaps and letter writing, while also practicing fundamental fine motor skills, planning, and academic goals progression. I look forward to explaining to all of you what Planting Seeds of Engagement has looked like for my students.