Strength Spotlight Slides
Strength
Spotlight
Your Growth. Your Voice. Your Future.
Self-Advocacy Series
Own Your Story
Your IEP is Your Script
It's a plan designed just for you to help you shine in the classroom.
You are the Director
Nobody knows how you learn better than you do. It's time to speak up!
The Growth Reel
1
Past You
Think back to the start of the year. What was a major challenge for you?
The Work
What skills did you practice? What strategies did you use to get better?
2
Present You
This is your "Level Up" moment! What can you do now that you couldn't before?
Translation Service
IEP Goal Says:
"Demonstrate reading comprehension..."
You Say:
"I can explain what I read and find key details."
IEP Goal Says:
"Utilize executive functioning strategies..."
You Say:
"I use checklists to stay organized and finish work."
The Stage
Crew
Even the biggest stars need a crew behind the scenes. What help do you need to succeed?
Audio
Headphones or quiet space
Time
Extra time on tests/projects
Visuals
Graphic organizers or notes
Check-ins
Frequent teacher feedback
Coming Soon to a Classroom Near You
Your Strength Profile
You're going to create a one-page "Profile" for your next teacher. It tells them who you are, what you've achieved, and how they can best support you.
The Script
The Spotlight
Closing Statement
"Self-advocacy means knowing yourself, knowing what you need, and knowing how to get it."
By sharing your Strength Profile, you are taking charge of your education. You aren't just a student in a desk—you are the star of your own learning journey.
Spotlight Pacing Guide
Spotlight Pacing Guide
Backstage Production Notes for Educators
Grade 6-12
Objective
Students will translate technical IEP goals into personal strengths and create a self-advocacy profile for future teachers.
Duration
60-90 Minutes (Can be split into two sessions: Reflection and Creation).
Prep Needed
Print individual student IEP goals on separate slips or provide digital access.
10
Intro: The Spotlight Effect
- Hook: Use the "Show Business" metaphor. Every performer needs to know their script to perform well.
- Discussion: Ask students: "Who knows the most about how you learn?"
- Slides 1-2: Introduce the concept of the IEP as a success plan.
20
Deep Dive: Goal Translation
Critical Step: Students see IEP goals as "stuff teachers do to me" rather than "things I am achieving."
- Handout: Distribute the Growth Journal Pages.
- The "Aha" Moment: Have students read a technical goal and ask what it means in real life.
- Translation Tip: Ask: "If you hit this goal, what are you actually better at in real life?"
- Slides 3-4: Use the examples on Slide 4 to model this thinking.
40
Creation: The Superstar Profile
- The Activity: Hand out the Superstar Profile Project template.
- Focus areas: Ensure students fill out the "Stage Crew" section with specific accommodations they value.
- Teacher Role: Circulate and help students find the "strength" version of their goals.
10
Closing: Advocacy Rehearsal
- Quick Fire: Each student shares one "Translation" (Technical vs. Personal).
- Exit Ticket: Identify one teacher they want to share their profile with next year.
Misconception
Clarify that advocacy means partnering with teachers, not just complaining or asking for less work.
Differentiation
Provide pre-written "Strength Icons" or choice boards for students with communication needs to select their supports.
Growth Journal Pages
Growth Journal
Finding your voice in the plan.
Date: _________________
Student: _______________
1. Translating the Script
Rewrite one of your technical goals (Teacher Talk) into your own words (Me Talk).
IEP Goal (Teacher Talk)
My Version (Me Talk)
2. The Growth Reel
What is one thing that used to be "impossible" for you at the start of this year?
What strategy or help did you use to get past it?
Advocacy Spark
Why is it important for your next teacher to know what you've achieved?
