Pennsylvania Department of Education, Bureau of Special Education: Autistic Support Teachers - Spark Engagement Build Social Skills, and Grow Teamwork 2026-2027

Hosted by Pennsylvania Department of Education, Bureau of Special Education

Connect with fellow autistic support teachers to explore practical strategies that promote independence, support social skill development, and build strong teams. Each FREE session will feature evidence-based practices, real-world examples, and opportunities for discussion. Leave with classroom-ready ideas to enhance student engagement, independence, and success. 

Routine Revolution:  Small Changes, Big Impact

October 6, 2026 ~ 4:00 pm – 5:30 pm

Small, intentional changes to classroom routines can have a significant impact on student engagement, independence, and learning. In this interactive session, participants will explore practical strategies for creating predictable classroom routines, meeting learners at their current interest and skill levels, and maximizing instructional time throughout the day. Through evidence-based practices and collaborative action planning, autistic support teachers will leave with ready-to-use ideas for strengthening classroom systems and fostering effective teamwork to support positive student outcomes. 

Presenters: Kathryn Poggi, PaTTAN Educational Consultant

Registration Link: PaTTAN-Session-43369 

Peer Based-Instruction and Intervention to Support Students with Autism in Inclusive Settings  

February 2, 2027 ~ 4:00 pm – 5:30 pm

Meaningful inclusion requires more than physical presence—it requires intentional opportunities for students with autism to build authentic relationships and actively participate alongside their peers. This session introduces Peer-Based Instruction and Intervention (PBII), an evidence-based practice that uses peer supports to promote communication, social interaction, academic engagement, and a sense of belonging in inclusive settings. Participants will explore practical strategies for implementing PBII to create naturally occurring opportunities for peer connections. Through discussion and collaboration, participants will share ideas, problem-solve implementation challenges, and identify next steps for strengthening peer supports in their schools. 

Presenters: Bria Hoey, Liz Serpentine, PaTTAN Educational Consultants

Registration Link: PaTTAN-Session-43370 

From Conversation to Collaboration:  Improving Outcomes Through Teamwork 

April 6, 2027 ~ 4:00 pm – 5:30 pm
Effective collaboration is essential to creating meaningful outcomes for students. This interactive webinar is designed for autistic support teachers and focuses on practical strategies for strengthening communication, building positive team relationships, and fostering partnerships among educators, paraprofessionals, related service providers, administrators, and families. Participants will explore tools for navigating challenging conversations, clarifying team roles and responsibilities, and developing a shared vision for student success. Join colleagues for networking, discussion, and practical resources to strengthen teamwork and enhance educational programming for students with autism. 

Presenters: Jolin Jackson, PaTTAN Educational Consultant

Registration Link: PaTTAN-Session-43371