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    SPED, Behavioral Support Syllabus 2025-26

     

    Course Title: SPED Behavioral Support                                                                             

    Grade Level: 6, 7, 8                                                                                                                       

    Instructor: Joanne Cunningham                                                                                         

    Contact Info: CunniJo@boe.richmond.k12.ga.us  (706) 592-3730                                               

    Location: Pine Hill Middle School, Room 412

     

    Course Overview

    This course provides individualized academic instruction in English Language Arts (ELA), Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies, while integrating behavioral support strategies tailored to students with exceptional needs. Instruction is aligned with the Georgia Standards of Excellence and delivered through differentiated, multi-modal approaches to foster academic growth, social-emotional development, and positive behavior.

     

    Instructional Goals

    Students will:

    • Develop academic skills in core content areas
    • Strengthen executive functioning and self-regulation
    • Practice appropriate social and classroom behaviors
    • Build independence and self-advocacy
    • Engage in collaborative learning and problem-solving
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    Core Subjects & Focus Areas

    Subject

    Focus Areas

    ELA

     

    Reading fluency, comprehension, writing structure, vocabulary, speaking/listening

    Math

    Number sense, operations, problem-solving, measurement, geometry, data analysis

    Science

    Scientific inquiry, Earth/space science, life science, physical science

     

    Social Studies

    Civics, geography, history, economics, cultural awareness

    (Instruction will be scaffolded and adapted using visual supports, manipulatives, assistive technology, and behavior reinforcement systems.)

     

    Instruction and assessment in these courses align with Georgia’s Grading Policy, which includes both traditional and standards-based grading approaches:

    Traditional Letter Grade Scale  (Used for most academic assessments:

    Grade

    Percentage Range

    Description

    A

    90–100%

    Excellent

    B

    80–89%

    Good

    C

    70–79%

    Average

    D

    60–69%

    Below Average

    F

    Below 60%

    Failing

     

    Behavioral Support Framework

    We use a Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) model, including:

    • Clear expectations and routines
    • Behavior charts and token economies
    • Social stories and role-playing
    • Zones of Regulation and SEL curriculum
    • Functional Behavior Assessments (FBA) and Behavior Intervention Plans (BIP) as needed

     

    Weekly Schedule Snapshot (Combined for All Grade Levels)

    Day

    Morning Block

                    Afternoon Block

    Monday

    ELA + Behavior Support

        Math + SEL Activities, Connections

    Tuesday

    Science + Writing

        Social Studies + Group Work, Connections

    Wednesday

    ELA + Reading Groups

        Math Centers + Games, Connections

    Thursday

    Science Review

        Social Studies Projects, Connections

    Friday

    Review + Assessments

        Choice Time + Reflection, Connections

     

    Assessment & Progress Monitoring

    • Academic: Modified quizzes, performance tasks, portfolios
    • Behavioral: Daily point sheets, behavior logs, self-monitoring checklists
    • Progress Reports: Sent home every 4–6 weeks
    • IEP Goals: Tracked and updated regularly in collaboration with families

     

    Family Communication

    • Weekly newsletters or updates
    • Monthly parent conferences or check-ins
    • Open-door policy for collaboration and feedback

     

    Classroom Expectations

    • Be safe
    • Be respectful
    • Be responsible
    • Try your best every day