The LRC-South Inclusion Institute buzzed with a unique energy as educators gathered on March 17 to hear from one of the most resonant voices in New Jersey special education. NJEA Consortium Design Team Ambassador Erin Putman, MSEd delivered a session that was as much a personal testimony as it was a professional development masterclass.
The 14-year PD: A masterclass in empathy
Putman’s workshop, titled “The 14-Year PD: How Parenting My Disabled Child Has Made Me a Better Special Educator,” tackled the complexities of the special education system through a dual lens. As both a seasoned special education teacher and a parent of a child with multiple disabilities for over a decade, Putman occupies a rare space in the field.
During the session, she guided attendees through the “aha moments” that reshaped her career. These weren’t just pedagogical shifts; they were fundamental breakthroughs in empathy and understanding.
Moving beyond compliance
The core message of Putman’s presentation was the transition from legal compliance to authentic connection. While the law dictates the framework of an Individualized Education Program (IEP), Putman argued that true success lies in the culture of the classroom and the school.
Key takeaways from the workshop included:
- The “Dual Perspective”: Navigating the emotional and logistical weight of both sides of the IEP table.
- Transformative Lessons: Using personal challenges as a catalyst for professional growth.
- Inclusive Culture: Shifting the focus from meeting mandates to fostering a genuine sense of belonging for every student.
“The goal isn’t just to follow the law; it’s to create a space where every student is seen, heard, and understood beyond the paperwork.” — Erin Putman, MSEd
Catch the encore at the TRANSFORM Conference
For those who were unable to attend the Inclusion Institute, there is another opportunity to experience this impactful session. We are thrilled to announce that Erin Putman will be presenting “The 14-Year PD” at the upcoming TRANSFORM Conference.
Attendees at TRANSFORM can expect an entertaining, insightful, and deeply human look at how we can all improve our inclusive practices. Whether you are a first-year teacher or a veteran administrator, Putman’s insights offer a roadmap for more compassionate and effective education.