About: Mary McLaughlin

Mary has always loved learning, but was a struggling learner who couldn’t read until one day, the right teacher came along with the right methodology, and everything clicked for Mary. Understanding the struggles of children who just “don’t get it,” Mary has spent her career supporting children with learning difficulties and finding ways to excite them about education. Over her career, Mary has taught Second Grade, Third Grade, and served as a Middle School Administrator in Michigan, most often in the urban setting. In 2015, Mary relocated to Arkansas in search of new opportunities and is excited at all that has been placed before her. She currently teaches Special Education in a self-contained setting for children in grades 2-4.

Recent Posts by Mary McLaughlin

How to Combat Self-Doubt as a Teacher

Man sitting alone outdoors on a sunlit path, looking into the distance with a serious expression
Many teachers go through periods of professional self-doubt, and it often surfaces around transitions: a new building, a hard evaluation, a class you can’t seem to reach. The way through isn’t confidence on demand. It’s naming what’s actually driving the doubt, deciding one small thing you can control today, and finding one colleague you can…
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First Year Special Education Teacher Tips From a 21-Year Veteran

Two young adults sharing a laugh at a table with a tablet, a third person reading nearby
Your first year in a special education classroom runs on preparation and relationships more than lesson plans. Review each student's IEP as early as you can, ask questions constantly, and treat your paraprofessional, school secretary, and custodian as allies. The best first year special education teacher tips come down to this: nobody expects you to…
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Free Professional Development for Teachers: How Sweet It Is

Teacher smiling at the front of her classroom as students raise their hands at desks behind her
Free professional development for teachers is easier to find than most of us assume. State-run platforms, university centers, and educator communities all offer courses at no cost. Many issue certificates of completion, though whether those hours count toward licensure depends on your state and district rules. Verify before you enroll. [xyz_feat_school] I am a professional…
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