High-Leverage Practices in Special Education

By now, everyone should know there are four domains in the transition portfolio. Similarly, there are four domains included in recognized High-Leverage Practices (HLPs) for special education professionals. HLPs are foundational practices and competencies that every educator should master and incorporate into their professional practice. Using HLPs optimizes educator readiness to meet the diverse needs of students, thus enhancing student outcomes.

The Four Domains:

a four-panel graphic with white outline icons and text on colored squares. The first blue square: icon of four hands meeting in the center. Text: Collaboration. The second orange square: icon of a gear atop a rising line graph with an arrow. Text: Data-Driven Planning. The third green square: icon of a teacher pointing to a whiteboard/easel. Text: Instruction in Behavior and Academics. The fourth red square: Icon of a clipboard with a checklist and a pen. Text: Intensify and Intervene as Needed.

HLPs Within Each Domain:

  1. Collaboration: Cooperating and partnering with general educators, paraprofessionals, support staff, and families.
  2. Data-Driven Planning: Using various assessment tools, interpret the results to identify student goals and design student-centered instruction.
  3. Instruction in Behavior and Academics: Developing and delivering instruction that more effectively manages student behavior and increases engagement by creating, practicing, and reinforcing clear expectations.
  4. Intensify and Intervene as Needed: Align instructional strategies and support methods with students’ academic and behavioral needs.

For more information and self-guided learning about HLPs, we invite you to explore the four resources listed below.

Resources:

Bonus Tips:

On Monday, December 15, 2025, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. ET at Easterseals Crossroads (4740 Kingsway Drive, Indianapolis), the Center on Community Living and Careers and Easterseals Crossroads will host A Place of My Own, a free session exploring residential options for individuals with disabilities. The program covers housing models, funding, regulations, workforce challenges, and intentional communities, and welcomes families, transition-age students, caregivers, and professionals.

James M. “Jim” McCarten, a special needs attorney specializing in SSI, Medicaid, and Special Needs Trusts, will lead the session. In-person seating is limited to 60 participants, and a virtual attendance option is available. Please help us spread the word! Share the registration information with families and colleagues.