STAR Media Center Updates

Last week, we took a closer look at the STAR Media Center’s Routine Essentials. This week, I’m excited to share more about Themes First! — STAR Media Center’s monthly, theme-based units that make planning and teaching so much easier!

Each monthly unit includes standards-aligned content in ELA and math and is designed for multiple learning formats — whether it’s circle time, small groups, or independent activities. The activities are leveled to meet the needs of all learners, from students who require significant support to those who are ready for more independence.

Materials are available as downloadable printables or digital lessons through STAR REEL technology, an interactive instructional system built right into the curriculum. The REELs can be shared on classroom displays, student devices, or even used for remote learning — giving you flexibility to teach in the way that works best for your students.

Below is a 34-minute tour of the Themes First! units. While it's a bit on the longer side, I wanted to walk you through the materials and share how I would use the different components in centers.

This will be especially helpful for new teachers who might be feeling unsure about what to teach and where to start — we’ve all been there!

Next week, we’ll kick off our new series, “Building Neuroaffirming Classrooms.” In this series, we’ll explore what neuroaffirming practices are, highlight the autistic perspective, and share practical ways to bring these practices into your classroom.

This must-read newsletter is filled with exciting events, valuable opportunities, and expert insights for educators and professionals supporting students with ASD.

Don’t miss the Communication Corner by Leah Hicks, where she shares strategies to expand communication skills in your classroom. Leah offers practical ways to help students express their thoughts, build meaningful connections, and navigate their world with greater independence. You can also browse past newsletters to find her popular one-pagers, which are perfect for sharing with colleagues!

Don’t miss out! Click the link below to access this incredible resource, and be sure to subscribe to receive the Minnesota Statewide ASD Newsletter in your inbox each quarter. Stay informed, inspired, and connected!

Check out the My Five Senses Themes First! Unit, which includes original songs, books, and activities that support students’ skill development and generalization with content that’s fun, accessible, and theme-based. These monthly units now include an expanded Social Studies suite, containing fun, theme-related activities that reinforce cultural engagement. Included in all Themes First! units are lessons, activities, and worksheets for group and independent work at a wide range of levels.

The next Themes First! release, October's Fall Festivalsis ready to prep!

💡Print all the activities you plan to use for the upcoming month as soon as they become available. Put printed activities in a "prep" area equipped with a laminator, file folders, Velcro, labels, and baggies. If you have a large laminator, laminate all the activities at once! When you and your team have a few minutes to spare, laminate, cut, and Velcro. It helps to organize activities in trays by "Needs to be Prepped" and "Finished." Don't forget to teach your team how to prep the activities and to model this new expectation. Check out the How to Prep a Month-Long Themes First! Unit below.

STAR Media Center Updates: Routine Essentials

Welcome Back! 9/2/2025

2023-2025 Tuesday Tips & Tricks

Feel free to reach out anytime with questions or concerns—I’m happy to help! You can contact me by email or phone, and I’m also available for quick Zoom chats on Fridays from 7:30–8:00 AM and 3:00–3:30 PM. If those times don’t work for your schedule, just send me an email, and we’ll find a time that works best for both of us.

Use the link below to ask questions about this week's Tuesday Tips 'N' Tricks and/or give suggestions on future topics.

Tuesday Tips & Tricks is funded with a grant from the Minnesota Department of Education using federal funding, CFDA 84.027A, Special Education – Grants to States. The contents of this newsletter does not necessarily represent the policy of the federal Department of Education, or the state Department of Education and you should not assume endorsement by the federal or state government.