The Teacher Support Network

Is your classroom energy low? Students physically present but mentally checked out? This episode is for you. Discover the Motivational F.U.N. framework. It's a simple, practical approach to re-engage students, especially those with disabilities and struggling learners. In this episode, you'll learn: Fun Activities that create access, not just entertainment Unannounced Surprises that reset classroom energy New Environment strategies that help students refocus I'm sharing real classroom examples, including a project-based learning activity that helped high school students with disabilities master algebra concepts while staying motivated and engaged. Whether you're teaching special education, working with struggling learners, or just need fresh ideas to combat the mid-year slump, this episode offers practical strategies you can use right away. Perfect for: Special education teachers, general education teachers, instructional coaches, and anyone supporting students who need extra engagement support. Show Notes and Resources: AntoineMcCoy.com/student-engagement-strategies-motivational-fun Connect with Antoine: Instagram: @TeacherSupportNetwork Facebook: The Teacher Support Network Website: AntoineMcCoy.com Subscribe to the Teacher Support Network Podcast for weekly episodes supporting special education teachers and educators working with struggling learners.

In this episode of the Teacher Support Network Podcast: Have you ever had one of those prep periods where you finally had a quiet block to work? You had the time.The door was closed.No meetings scheduled. And you still walked out wondering what you actually accomplished? That’s exactly what this week’s podcast episode dives into. Why your prep period can feel unproductive even when you technically have the time. Show Notes and Transcript: https://AntoineMcCoy.com/why-your-prep-period-feels-unproductive

Are you a SpEd teacher feeling overwhelmed right now? If you're a new or early-career special education teacher juggling IEPs, case management, collaboration, and classroom instruction, you are not alone. In this episode of the Teacher Support Network Podcast, Antoine breaks down why overwhelm in special education is rarely random — and what to do instead of trying to fix everything at once. If everything feels urgent, this episode will help you slow down, identify what’s actually draining you, and take one clear next step forward. Show Notes: AntoineMcCoy.com/overwhelmed-as-a-sped-teacher-start-here

During parent-teacher conference season — are you feeling prepared or panicked? In this episode, Antoine shares 5 practical tips to help Gen Ed and SpEd teachers walk into conferences feeling confident, organized, and full of compassion — especially when supporting students with disabilities and diverse learners. Learn how to lead with strengths, speak without jargon, and create space for parent voice… plus hear how to tag-team with co-teachers and use a simple prep tool to stay grounded. 🎁 Grab the Inclusive Conference Toolkit to put these tips into action — linked in the resource section of the show notes! Tune into the full episode, show notes, resources, and transcript here: AntoineMcCoy.com/inclusive-conference-prep-for-teachers

In this episode of the Teacher Support Network Podcast, Antoine shares five time-saving systems that help teachers reduce stress, save energy, and stay focused. From batching lesson planning and grading, to setting up student jobs, communication channels, batch prep, and a daily shutdown routine—you’ll walk away with practical strategies you can start this week. Tune into the full episode, show notes, resources, and transcript here: AntoineMcCoy.com/5-time-saving-systems-for-teachers

In this episode of the Teacher Support Network Podcast, Antoine shares practical ways co-teachers and support staff can stay aligned. You’ll hear how to clarify priorities, set up communication systems, balance quick check-ins with structured meetings, and make adjustments when student needs shift. Tune into the full episode, show notes, resources, and transcript here: AntoineMcCoy.com/starting-strong-with-teacher-collaboration

Procedures and routines may not feel exciting, but they’re a lifeline—for both students and teachers. In this episode of the Teacher Support Network Podcast, Antoine shares why predictability reduces stress and builds equity for students with disabilities, how collaboration keeps routines consistent, and practical strategies to make them stick. Tune into the full episode, show notes, resources, and transcript here: AntoineMcCoy.com/why-predictability-matters-for-students-with-disabilities

Building strong relationships with students isn’t just a “first week of school” thing—it’s an all year long thing. In this episode, I share why relationships are especially critical for students with disabilities, how to go beyond surface-level connection, and four practical strategies you can start using right away. Tune into the full episode, show notes, resources, and transcript here: AntoineMcCoy.com/building-relationships-that-support-students-with-disabilities

Teaching can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. In this kickoff to Season 2, we share the power of mentorship in teaching — why every teacher needs a mentor, how mentors accelerate growth, and his own story of how one mentor completely changed the way he taught. Whether you’re a new or veteran teacher, this episode will remind you of the value of having someone walk alongside you in the journey. Tune into the full episode, show notes, resources, and transcript here: AntoineMcCoy.com/why-every-teacher-needs-a-mentor

In the final episode of the Whole Life Teacher series, we invite you to dream again. From classroom goals to life beyond education, this episode helps you reflect on what’s next — personally and professionally. It's about intention, alignment, and embracing your full potential. 🎧Tune into the full episode, show notes, resources, and transcript here: AntoineMcCoy.com/the-whole-teacher-and-their-future

Talking about finances for teachers isn’t always easy — but it’s essential. In this reflective yet practical episode, we share how educators can take small, grace-filled steps toward better financial wellness. From budgeting with purpose to building peace (not pressure), this is a judgment-free convo about money, values, and creating margin for what matters. 🎧Tune into the full episode, show notes, resources, and transcript here: AntoineMcCoy.com/the-whole-teacher-and-their-finances

Friendships are not just nice to have — They’re a lifeline for teachers navigating the highs and lows of the job. In this episode of the Teacher Support Network Podcast, we are continuing the Whole Life Teacher series and digging into the power of friendships — both personal and professional. I’m sharing a story about a real friendship that started in the classroom and grew beyond it, plus some of the challenges we all face trying to keep those connections strong when life gets busy. 🎧Find the full episode, show notes, resources, and transcript here: AntoineMcCoy.com/the-whole-teacher-and-their-friends

In this episode of the Teacher Support Network Podcast, we are continuing the Whole Life Teacher series, specifically talking about all things...Fitness. We’re breaking down simple ways to move your body, fuel yourself well, and truly rest so you can show up with energy for your students and your loved ones. From quick walks to short, no equipment needed workouts, small nutrition tweaks, and better sleep habits — it’s about progress, not perfection. 🎙️Find the full episode, show notes, resources, and transcript here: AntoineMcCoy.com/the-whole-teacher-and-their-fitness

Let’s talk about something you deserve more of: FUN. In this episode of the Whole Life Teacher series, we’re diving into why joy isn’t optional, how to make space for it, and why fun isn’t just for summer break. From laughter in the teacher’s lounge to solo creative time, fun looks different for all of us—but it matters deeply. You’ll get encouragement, reflection, and real-life ideas to bring joy back to your calendar. 🎁 Plus, grab your free Gen Ed & SpEd Collaborative Conversations Guide in the show notes—a resource to spark meaningful teamwork and support for students with disabilities. 🎙️Find the full episode, show notes, resources, and transcript here: AntoineMcCoy.com/the-whole-teacher-and-their-fun

This week on the Teacher Support Network, we’re diving into another one of the 7 F’s: Family. We’re talking about who you call family—those who support you, who you support, and how those relationships shape your life as a teacher. I’m sharing my own journey balancing life as a husband, dad, and son to an elderly mother. We’ll explore what intentional time looks like, how to show up with presence and energy, and why your “work family” might just be your secret superpower. Plus, don’t miss grabbing my free Gen Ed & SpEd Teacher Collaborative Conversations Guide in the show notes—your resource for building better support and connection at work with your teaching partners. Let’s talk about carrying the classroom and your people with grace. 🎙️Find the full episode, show notes, resources, and transcript here:

In this episode of the Teacher Support Network podcast, we’re continuing our “Whole Teacher Life” series and focusing on one powerful piece of the puzzle: Faith. I’m unpacking what it means to be a whole teacher who stays spiritually grounded—not just for your students, but for you. I’ll share what faith looks like in my own personal and professional life as an educator, while honoring the many ways our teachers and educators connect spiritually—from prayer and journaling to meditation and stillness and so forth... 🎙️Find the full episode, show notes, resources, and transcript here: AntoineMcCoy.com/the-whole-teacher-and-their-faith

In this episode of the Teacher Support Network podcast, host Antoine McCoy introduces a new series entitled, “The Whole Teacher: Life Beyond the Lesson Plans.” He discusses the importance of living a balanced and fulfilling life beyond the typical teacher responsibilities. Inspired by the book 'What Really Works: Blending The Seven Fs for the Life You Imagine' by Paul Batz and Tim Schmidt, this series will cover seven key areas: faith, family, finances, fitness, friendships, fun, and the future. Each week, he will provide a reflection prompt and a small action step to help educators achieve wellness, joy, and longevity in their profession. 🎙️Find the full episode, show notes, resources, and transcript here: AntoineMcCoy.com/the-whole-teacher-and-their-reset

Summer's here—but that doesn’t mean the learning has to stop. In this episode of the Teacher Support Network Podcast, I’m sharing 5 powerful, low-cost (or no-cost!) ways to keep kids sharp, curious, and engaged during the summer break. Perfect for teachers looking to share with families or parents who want to sprinkle some learning into summer fun. Plus, I’ve got a bonus tip that’ll turn your next dollar store run into a genius learning opportunity. In this episode, you’ll learn: -What the “summer slide” is and how to prevent it -Easy, joyful activities that support reading, math, science, and SEL -How parents and teachers can work together for summer success 🎙️ Find the full episode, show notes, resources, and transcript here: AntoineMcCoy.com/5-fun-low-cost-and-free-ways-to-keep-kids-learning-over-the-summer

You made it! Whether you’re already on summer break or counting down the last few weeks or days, this episode is for YOU. We break down how to find your Summer Balance—a rhythm of rest and renewal that won’t leave you burnt out or behind. You’ll hear three soul-filling ways to recharge and three low-lift ways to grow professionally, all without the guilt or grind. Plus, don’t miss the invite to join the Teacher Support Network newsletter—your weekly dose of practical strategies, encouragement, and early access to upcoming summer PD workshops to help you grow in your teaching practice. 🎙️Find the full episode, show notes, resources, and transcript here: AntoineMcCoy.com/balancing-rest-growth-as-a-teacher-during-the-summer

In this episode of the Teacher Support Network Podcast, we invite Gen Ed and SpEd teachers to pause before summer break and engage in one of the most impactful year-end moves—a simple, intentional collaboration check-in. Three powerful reflection questions you and your co-teacher can use to celebrate wins, name challenges, and dream forward. You’ll walk away with practical tips, real-talk examples, and a renewed sense of why your partnership matters—especially for students with disabilities and struggling learners. Plus, don’t miss the free downloadable resource in the show notes: “Gen Ed & SpEd Teachers Collaborative Conversations Guide” — packed with 10 ready-to-use conversation starters to deepen your co-teaching connection. 🎙️Find the full episode, show notes, resources, and transcript here: AntoineMcCoy.com/co-teaching-reflection-questions-for-the-end-of-the-year

Are your students zoning out, dragging their feet, or just mentally checked out? You're not alone. In this episode, we explore 3 simple student motivation strategies that work during low-energy times of the school year—whether it’s the end-of-year slump, long haul after winter break, or any week that just feels tough. These creative teaching ideas are practical and designed to help both students and teachers get back on track. Whether you’re facing teacher burnout or just looking for classroom energy boosters to motivate your students, you’ll leave with some ideas and tools to make your classroom feel focused, energized, and motivated—without needing a full reset. 🎙️Find the full episode, show notes, resources, and transcript here: AntoineMcCoy.com/3-simple-ways-to-motivate-students-during-low-energy-times-of-the-year

In this episode of the Teacher Support Network podcast, we delve into various ways to show appreciation to teachers using the five love languages developed by Dr. Gary Chapman—words of affirmation, acts of service, receiving gifts, quality time, and physical touch. Each love language is explored in the context of teaching, discussing practical ways teachers and their supporters can implement these love languages to feel valued and supported. The episode also encourages listeners to identify their own love language and offers a challenge to use these languages to make teachers feel appreciated. 🎙️Find the full the full episode, show notes, resources, and transcript here: AntoineMcCoy.com/5-teacher-love-languages

In this episode of the Teacher Support Network podcast, we explore the transformative value of co-teaching in building inclusive classrooms and supporting students with disabilities. Five key benefits of co-teaching partnerships are outlined and discussed. In addition, Antoine shares personal insights from his 18 years of experience teaching directly in inclusive classrooms using the co-teaching model. 🎙️Find the full the full episode, show notes, resources, and transcript here: AntoineMcCoy.com/5-benefits-of-co-teaching-in-inclusive-classrooms

In this episode of the Teacher Support Network podcast, we address tired and overwhelmed teachers, emphasizing the importance of perseverance even when immediate results are not visible. Drawing inspiration from Galatians 6:9, practical strategies to stay motivated and resilient are shared. 🎧Find the full the full episode, show notes, resources, and transcript here: AntoineMcCoy.com/encouragement-for-weary-teachers

In this episode of the Teacher Support Network Podcast, we delve into 3 practical strategies to support students with disabilities during state testing. These tips aim to reduce anxiety and ensure a smoother testing experience for both students and educators during the often stressful state testing season. 🎧Find the full the full episode, show notes, resources, and transcript here: AntoineMcCoy.com/supporting-students-with-disabilities-during-state-testing

In this episode of the Teacher Support Network podcast we encourage educators to reflect on their teaching practices as they approach the final stretch of the school year. We share five critical reflection questions designed to help teachers assess student progress, evaluate effective instructional strategies, improve collaboration with colleagues, maintain a structured classroom environment, and focus on personal growth and self-care. In addition, actionable steps are provided to help teachers and their students finish the school year on a high note. 🎧Find the full the full episode, show notes, resources, and transcript here: AntoineMcCoy.com/5-reflection-questions-for-teachers-to-finish-the-school-year-strong

In this episode of the Teacher Support Network podcast, we explore the power of wait time, a strategy that benefits all students, particularly students with learning disabilities and learning difficulties. The episode will look deeper into the benefits of allowing student “wait” time and provide practical tips for implementing “wait” time more efficiently and effectively in the classroom. 🎧Listen in now. Find the full show notes, resources, and transcript here: AntoineMcCoy.com/supporting-students-with-learning-difficulties-using-wait-time

Got students who shut down the moment math time starts? I've been there. Whether it's math anxiety, learning disabilities, or just plain struggle with numbers, watching students disengage is tough. But here's the thing: sometimes the tool that makes the biggest difference is sitting in your desk drawer right now. In this episode, I share how one simple, affordable resource transformed math instruction in my classroom. I'm talking about regular playing cards from the dollar store. Nothing fancy. Nothing expensive. Just cards. I walk you through hands-on activities that work for elementary through high school students. You'll discover how to use playing cards to support everything from basic number recognition to more complex concepts like integers, fractions, and probability. The best part? These activities make math feel like play. Students who normally resist math work actually ask to do these activities again. That's the power of making abstract concepts concrete and accessible. Whether you're teaching young students who struggle with counting or high schoolers who need integer practice, this episode gives you ready-to-use strategies you can implement tomorrow. No special materials. No complicated prep. Just playing cards and some creative approaches that actually work. Show Notes and Resources: AntoineMcCoy.com/supporting-students-with-math-difficulties-using-playing-cards Connect with me: Instagram: @TeacherSupportNetwork Facebook: The Teacher Support Network Website: AntoineMcCoy.com Subscribe to the Teacher Support Network Podcast for weekly episodes supporting new and early-career special education teachers in building confidence, creating sustainable systems, and navigating IEPs and case management without burning out.

Ever feel like you're working constantly but never getting caught up? I get it. Lesson planning, grading, IEPs, emails, parent calls - the list never ends. In this episode, I share a simple time management technique that changed how I work. It's called the Pomodoro Method, and it helps you get more done in less time without the burnout. Here's the best part: you can start using it today. No special tools required. I walk you through exactly how to apply this method to the tasks that drain your time the most - and I share my favorite free resource for making it work (hint: it involves YouTube and your choice of beaches, coffee shops, or mountain views). If you're tired of feeling behind and want to actually enjoy your work again, this episode is for you. Find the full show notes, resources, and transcript here: AntoineMcCoy.com/boost-teacher-productivity-pomodoro Connect with me: Instagram: @TeacherSupportNetwork Facebook: The Teacher Support Network Website: AntoineMcCoy.com Subscribe to the Teacher Support Network Podcast for weekly episodes supporting new and early-career special education teachers in building confidence, creating sustainable systems, and navigating IEPs and case management without burning out.

In this episode of the Teacher Support Network podcast, we address the overwhelming stress and chaos that educators often face throughout different seasons of the school year that I refer to as “Teacher Madness.” Three motivational strategies are explored to help teachers recenter and recharge. Listeners will gain practical advice on setting boundaries, seeking inspiration, and shaking up their teaching methods to restore their passion and effectiveness in the classroom. Find the full show notes, resources, and transcript here: AntoineMcCoy.com/motivational-tlc-in-the-midst-of-teacher-madness

In this episode, we discuss the importance of regular, focused, and productive meetings between General Education (Gen Ed) and Special Education (SpEd) teachers. Three important actionable tips will be discussed to help ensure collaborative meetings between General and Special education teachers lead to tangible progress in supporting students with disabilities in the mainstream classroom. Find the full show notes, resources, and transcript here: AntoineMcCoy.com/tips-to-improve-gen-ed-and-sped-teacher-collaborative-meetings

In this episode of the Teacher Support Network Podcast, we discuss the importance of celebrating student successes, especially for students with disabilities. The episode offers a personal story from the classroom, as well as practical tips that encourage listeners to make success about more than just grades and to celebrate all forms of progress. Find the full show notes, resources, and transcript here: AntoineMcCoy.com/celebrating-student-success-beyond-grades

In this episode of the Teacher Support Network Podcast, the role of music as a self-care tool for educators is explored. In addition, practical tips on incorporating music into a teacher’s self-care routine at school are shared. Find the full show notes, resources, and transcript here: AntoineMcCoy.com/teacher-self-care-through-music

In this episode of the Teacher Support Network podcast, we will discuss the 2x10 strategy, a relationship-building tool designed to reach hard-to-engage students or students with challenging behaviors. The episode explains the benefits of the 2 by 10 strategy and practical tips and ideas for implementing this method in the classroom. Find the full show notes, resources, and transcript here: AntoineMcCoy.com/improving-student-behavior-using-the-2-by-10-strategy

In this episode of the Teacher Support Network Podcast, we delve into this essential topic of supporting students with disabilities through effective collaboration in IEP meetings. The episode shares common challenges that the IEP Team faces during these meetings and underscores the importance of teamwork in creating realistic, actionable IEP plans. Finally, actionable strategies and ideas to improve collaboration before, during, and after IEP meetings are explored. Find the full show notes and transcript here: AntoineMcCoy.com/making-iep-meetings-more-collaborative

In this episode of the Teacher Support Network podcast, we discuss a topic all teachers and educators can relate to: How to be more productive. In this episode we discuss two key mindset shifts connected to being more productive. We then discuss and break down five simple strategies that can be incorporated into your teaching practice to maximize your available time throughout the teaching day. Each strategy comes with practical tips and real-life examples to help teachers feel more in control, less stressed, and ultimately more effective. Listen in to discover how these strategies can transform your teaching practice. Find the Full Show Notes and Transcript Here: AntoineMcCoy.com/5-simple-ways-to-have-a-more-productive-teaching-day

In this episode of the TSN Podcast, we discuss the Gradual Release of Responsibility (GRR) Framework as a strategy for teachers to use to simplify lesson planning and enhance student learning. We break down the phases of this teaching method, explaining how each step progressively shifts responsibility from the teacher to the student and give ideas on how to plan lessons using this instructional framework. Practical examples are shared, including my own experience teaching a math class for students with disabilities, where the GRR method was applied to improve learning outcomes and reduce the stress and overwhelm of lesson planning. Find the Full Show Notes, Resources, and Transcript Here: AntoineMcCoy.com/simplifying-lesson-planning-for-teachers-using-grr

In this episode of the Teacher Support Network, we dive deeper into the vital partnership between General and Special Education teachers. Collaboration between these educators is essential for creating inclusive and supportive classrooms for students with disabilities, but it's not without its hurdles. Join us as we explore some of these common challenges that often impede effective Gen Ed and SpEd teacher collaboration. Grab the full show notes here: AntoineMcCoy.com/the-challenges-of-gen-ed-sped-teacher-partnerships/

In this episode, we explore how collaboration between general and special education teachers can unlock powerful benefits for students with disabilities. Listen in to discover why working together creates stronger classrooms for everyone. Click here for episode show notes: AntoineMcCoy.com/benefits-general-education-special-education-teacher-collaboration

In this episode of we explore two powerful inclusion mindset shifts that can help educators better support students with disabilities in the mainstream classroom. Whether you're a General Ed teacher, SpEd teacher, or instructional assistant, and anywhere in-between, these inclusive mindsets will empower you to create an environment where every student feels valued and has the opportunity to thrive. Let’s dive in! Click here for episode show notes: https://antoinemccoy.com/inclusive-teaching-mindsets-that-transform-classrooms

Join us on the Teacher Support Network Podcast, your go-to resource dedicated to helping educators create inclusive classrooms and foster effective teacher collaboration. Whether you're a general education or special education teacher, this podcast is packed with the tools you need to make a real difference. From powerful inclusion strategies that support students with special needs in the mainstream classroom to tips on building effective partnerships amongst your colleagues, we've got you covered. Plus, we'll share productivity hacks, time management techniques, and wellness practices to help you reduce the overwhelm and take care of yourself along the way. Subscribe to stay connected, follow us on social media, and check the show notes for more resources to help you along your teaching journey.