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High Leverage Practices Overview

Aug 15, 2025

Overview

This lecture introduces high leverage practices (HLPs) for supporting students with disabilities and outlines the structure and available resources in the video series.

Introduction to High Leverage Practices (HLPS)

  • HLPS are foundational teaching practices that support students with disabilities in general education classrooms.
  • Over 10% of students in many schools have disabilities, so all teachers need effective strategies.
  • HLPS ensure students with disabilities have meaningful access and progress in the general curriculum.
  • These practices supplement, not replace, intensive, data-driven interventions provided by specialists.
  • HLPS are appropriate for most students and can be used by general and special education teachers.
  • Each HLP can be broken down into smaller parts for easier learning and implementation.
  • HLPS improve student outcomes across content areas, age levels, and learning needs.
  • Some HLPS are themselves evidence-based practices, such as explicit instruction.

Roadmap for the Video Series & Resources

  • The series covers 22 HLPS, grouped in four domains: collaboration, assessment, social/emotional/behavioral, and instruction.
  • Each video in the series introduces an HLP, summarizes supporting research, and provides teacher demonstration clips.
  • Videos are available at www.highleveragepractices.org and the Cedar Center website.
  • The demonstration videos feature real classrooms with students with and without Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).
  • Videos should be used alongside the HLPS book and other professional development materials.
  • Additional resources include extra video clips, reflection prompts, and links to related sites like the National Center for Intensive Intervention.

Key Terms & Definitions

  • HLPS (High Leverage Practices) — Foundational teaching strategies essential for effective instruction, especially for students with disabilities.
  • IEP (Individualized Education Plan) — A document detailing placements and supports for students with disabilities.
  • Evidence-Based Practices — Teaching strategies proven effective by research.
  • Fidelity — Implementing a practice as intended for maximum effectiveness.

Action Items / Next Steps

  • Watch each HLPS introduction video on the provided websites.
  • Review additional resources and reflection prompts accompanying each video.
  • Consult the HLPS book for more in-depth learning.