Behavior Management in Secondary Classrooms: Practical Strategies (Ep. 80)

In this Teaching Toolbox episode, we sit down with special education teacher, Laila, to share real, classroom-tested behavior supports for secondary students. We cover work avoidance, oppositional behaviors (including ODD), sensory needs, and what actually helps students engage academically.

We chat about:
• Why special education practices help every secondary classroom
• Handling work avoidance and ODD with strategic ignoring and precise praise
• Traffic-light desk visuals for instant, nonverbal feedback
• Flexible seating and sensory input students can self-manage
• Differentiation that isn’t a time sink: visuals, lined boxes, fewer options
• Positive notes home: fast system parents love (and students crave)
• Teaching manipulatives the right way: expectations, modeling, gradual release
• Team-teaching tips: roles, assessment access, and test scaffolds
• Keeping engagement high with checklists, routines, and quick wins

If you’re looking for dependable, low-prep strategies to support learners with ADHD, autism, mood disorders, sensory needs, or learning disabilities in secondary settings, this one’s packed with tools you can use tomorrow.

🔗 Guest: Laila Modzelewski — Modz By Laila (TPT): resources that streamline SPED paperwork and boost engagement.

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