Setting the Pace: Setting and Prioritizing Learning goals for Every Student

In this episode, Heather is joined by Marla to talk about the real-life work behind identifying and prioritizing long- and short-term goals for students. They unpack what this actually looks like across school, home, and clinic settings—and why it’s not just about fixing what’s broken today.Marla shares how she approaches planning with teachers, families, and other providers to figure out what matters most right now, what can wait, and how it all adds up to meaningful long-term growth. They talk about what happens when we skip this step and just start reacting—when short-term goals turn into whack-a-mole tasks that wear everyone down and lead nowhere fast.This conversation highlights the importance of clarity, collaboration, and pacing. From brushing teeth to independent living goals, from calming a classroom to preparing a student for adulthood, they show how planning with purpose helps teams stay grounded and students feel successful. It’s about more than IEP boxes—it’s about doing right by our kids and the people who support them.Explore More with Us inside The TLC Network!Learn more in this episode’s show notes and join a vibrant community of behavior-focused school professionals committed to their professional growth.Join Our NewsletterStay updated with our latest episodes and receive exclusive content every week. Sign up now!Follow Us on Social MediaConnect with us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook for weekly updates and behind-the-scenes content. Tag us @thresholdlearningtlc to engage with us across all platforms!Subscribe to Our PodcastEnjoyed today’s episode? Share it with friends and never miss an episode on your favorite platform: YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and more!Support Our MissionLove what you hear? Support our efforts to empower local schools to support complex youth. Visit TLC Nonprofit to learn more.Send Us Your FeedbackHave questions or ideas for future episodes? Reach out to us at [email protected] — we’d love to hear from you!