The “Difficult Behavior” Conversation Schools Need: Safety, Structure & Relationship | John Vergara

What if we stopped labeling kids as “difficult”… and got serious about what difficult behavior is communicating? Karen Mayer Cunningham sits down with John Vergara (aka The Difficult Student) — an assistant principal over special education and a leader known for practical, relationship-driven strategies that protect learning for every student in the classroom. This episode is packed with real-world guidance for teachers, school leaders, parents, and advocates who want structure and compassion — without relying on reward charts, token systems, or empty “just build relationships” advice. ✅ In This Episode The difference between “difficult students” vs. “students with difficult behavior” The classroom foundation: safety → love → self-esteem How routines and procedures create safety (not punishment) Teaching regulation and skills instead of punishing unmet skills Why inclusion can work — when it’s supported Mindset shifts for teachers navigating toxic or unsupported environments Links + Resources ✅ Join The Academy (Skool Community): https://www.skool.com/special-education-academy/about ✅ Get Karen’s book The Epic IEP (official link): https://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1637635125?tag=simonsayscom Connect with John Vergara Instagram / TikTok: @thedifficultstudent Podcast: The Difficult Student Podcast (Spotify / Apple / YouTube) 👍 If you found this helpful: Like, subscribe, and share with a teacher, parent, or advocate. “When we get it right for the child, we get it right for everybody.” — Karen Mayer Cunningham #SpecialEducationBoss #IEPHelp #504Plan #BehaviorSupport #InclusionMatters #KnowYourRights #AskTheAdvocate