Core Ideology

The essence of what makes Second Mile Therapy a world class company are the values that drive everything we do. We measure every decision against these values, and if it doesn’t line up then we simply don’t do it. Here is a review of our core values- I bring them up often throughout the apprenticeship and beyond because you will want to memorize them.

People Smart

Energetic

Therapy Smart

Achievers

Upright

People Smart

We are people that others want to be around. In addition to strong relationships with parents, administrators, and teachers, we have great rapport with kids.

Energetic

As a team we are upbeat, positive, go-getters. Those around us can’t help but notice our confidence and enthusiasm, not only for our work, but in every avenue of our lives.

Therapy Smart

We are professional problem solvers. We often shine the brightest in situations where others have failed and love the challenge of difficult situations.

Achievers

Each team member has a deep seated hunger to win and achieve greatness in their life. We seek growth and never give up. This is true in our personal lives and in our work.

Upright

Realizing the great value of integrity and character, we do the right thing all the time, even when we are not at work or when it is not in the financial best interest of the company. We strive to maintain our reputation of being above reproach in every decision.

Beyond Basic Accommodations: Unlocking Student Potential with 504 Plans

by Julie Kibby | April 14, 2025 | 504 Plan, Accommodations | 0 Comments

In our previous post, we explored the key documentation requirements for 504 plans and how schools can utilize various forms of documentation to determine eligibility. Now, we’re diving deeper into the accommodations that make 504 plans so powerful in unlocking a...

Beyond the Doctor’s Note: Understanding Documentation for 504 Plans

by Dan McCool | April 4, 2025 | 504 Plan | 0 Comments

For educators, administrators, and parents navigating the special education landscape, understanding the documentation requirements for 504 plans is crucial. One common misconception is that these plans require a doctor's prescription or formal medical diagnosis. This...

The Truth About IQ: What Educators Should Say to Worried Parents

by Julie Kibby | April 1, 2025 | Eligibility, IEP, Uncategorized | 0 Comments

As educators — especially those working in special education — we often find ourselves in the delicate role of not just delivering information, but shaping how that information is received. One of the most emotionally charged conversations we have with families is...

Top 5 Pitfalls to Avoid in IEP Meetings

by Julie Kibby | February 24, 2025 | IEP, IEP Meeting | 0 Comments

Every day, special education professionals walk into IEP meetings with the best intentions. But here's the hard truth: good intentions aren't enough when parents leave feeling confused, dismissed, or angry. Parents are the heroes in their child's education story....

Unlocking Student Success: The Hidden Power of Teacher Voice in IEPs

by Julie Kibby | February 19, 2025 | IEP, IEP Meeting, News for Schools, Uncategorized | 0 Comments

Let me tell you about a problem that’s costing your students valuable learning opportunities and your teachers precious time. Every day, teachers walk into IEP meetings with game-changing insights, but too often, those insights go unheard. The result? IEPs that miss...

Special Education Therapy Services: The Critical Role of Licensed Professionals

by Julie Kibby | January 28, 2025 | DESE, News for Schools, Uncategorized | 0 Comments

Every day, students with special needs rely on therapeutic services to succeed in school. But there's a dangerous misconception spreading through education circles - the idea that anyone can provide these specialized services. This misunderstanding puts students at...

Making Systems Stick in Special Education: A Quick Guide to Consistent Implementation

by Julie Kibby | January 22, 2025 | IEP, Interventions, Speech | 0 Comments

Special education thrives on consistent system adherence. Here’s how to transform protocols into daily habits: Visual System Integration Post step-by-step checklists and QR codes linking to guides. Use color-coded charts and visual reminders in key areas. Regularly...

Revolutionizing Speech Therapy: The Power of the 3:1 Model

by Julie Kibby | January 16, 2025 | IEP, Language, Speech, Uncategorized | 0 Comments

In the evolving landscape of special education, the 3:1 service delivery model emerges as a game-changer for speech therapy. This innovative approach maximizes both therapeutic intensity and classroom integration, while offering practical solutions for SLPs' demanding...

Ensuring IEP Quality: Weaving the “Golden Thread” of Due Diligence

by Julie Kibby | November 11, 2024 | DESE, IEP, Uncategorized | 0 Comments

In the world of special education, each IEP represents a student's unique path, woven with care to support their journey. The “Golden Thread” serves as our guide, emphasizing the importance of due diligence at every turn. By...

Unveiling the “Golden Thread”: Ensuring Cohesive Special Education Support

by Dan McCool | October 9, 2024 | DESE, IEP, IEP Meeting, Related Services, RTI, SPED Program, Uncategorized | 0 Comments

Originally published on September 6, 2023, this article has been updated. In education, especially special education, a transformative approach has emerged—the "Golden Thread." This concept connects all stages of the special education process, ensuring that students...