Think Inclusive

Latest Episodes:

Rebuilding Education: Navigating Policy Changes and Their Impact on Schools ~ Think Inclusive Now Mar 24, 2025

Show notes

About the Guest(s):

Tim Villegas: Tim is associated with the Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education. He is also the host of the Think Inclusive podcast and Director of Communications at the Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education.

Ashley Barlow: A special education attorney and advocate, Ashley also hosts the Collaborative IEP Podcast. She offers extensive insights into legal aspects and advocacy for inclusive education.

Janet Roche: Known for co-producing the Inclusive Designers Podcast alongside Carolyn Robbins, Janet is also an advocate of trauma-informed design and a co-founder of Trauma-Informed Design Society.

Sam Drazin: As the Executive Director of Changing Perspectives, Sam is engaged in promoting inclusive education in schools. He is also known for his podcast, Sip and Sam Inclusion Coffee Talk.

Savitha Sundar: Host of the Inclusive Occupations Podcast, Savitha brings her expertise as an occupational therapist to offer insights into inclusive practices throughout different professional environments.

Lori Boll: Executive Director of Senia International and host of the SENIA Happy Hour podcast, Lori's work focuses on championing inclusion for students with special needs around the world.

Diana Pastora Carson: An educator with a passion for disability advocacy, Diana hosts the Beyond Awareness: Disability Awareness That Matters podcast.

Episode Summary:

Join Tim Villegas and an esteemed panel of experts as they dive into the complexities of rebuilding education in light of recent policy changes affecting schools. This episode is brimming with insightful discussion on the importance of inclusive education and the challenges posed by changes at the political level. Each guest shares their perspectives reflecting varied fields, from special education law, occupational therapy, to teacher preparation and inclusive design, emphasizing the urgency of collaborative advocacy for students with disabilities.

The conversation is rich with details about potential impacts of policy alterations on inclusive educational practices. Ashley Barlow breaks down complex legal shifts, while Janet Roche introduces the principles of trauma-informed design. The discourse extends to Sam Drazin who passionately highlights the significance of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) and Savita Sundar who discusses concerns faced by service providers in education. Lori Boll tunes in with a global perspective, discussing how changes in the United States affect international schools, while Diana Pastora Carson emphasizes the role of educators in advocacy. Sam Drazin powerfully closes with a call for unity in advancing disability inclusion worldwide. This episode is a treasure trove for educators, advocates, and families focused on inclusive practices during these challenging times.

Complete show notes + transcript: https://mcie.org/think-inclusive/rebuilding-education-navigating-policy-changes-and-their-impact-on-schools-think-inclusive-now/

Key Takeaways:

-The current political climate demands increased awareness and advocacy from educators, focusing on protecting students' rights under IDEA.

Trauma-informed design plays a critical role in creating calming, inclusive environments in schools.

-The removal of DEI initiatives could harm the educational system by reducing the empathy and understanding necessary for truly inclusive practices.

-Grassroots advocacy in education has proven impactful, reflecting a need for continued collective action to address policy challenges.

-The discourse on school choice and voucher systems highlights a concern for increased segregation and inequity in education.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Reimagining Special Education: A Conversation on Inclusion | Think Inclusive Now Feb 26, 2025

Show notes

Summary

In this conversation, Tim Villegas and Jenna Rufo discuss the current state of special education, focusing on the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and the need for reform. They explore the importance of inclusion practices, the challenges of funding and educational placement, and the bureaucratic hurdles parents face in due process. The discussion also highlights the need for innovative approaches to co-teaching and resource allocation to improve educational outcomes for students with disabilities. In this conversation, Jenna Rufo and Tim Villegas discuss the complexities of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and the importance of inclusion in education. They address misconceptions about the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) and emphasize the need for supplementary aids and services in general education settings. The discussion then shifts to the implications of the ongoing 504 lawsuit, highlighting concerns about potential discrimination against students with disabilities. Finally, they encourage listeners to engage in advocacy by contacting legislators to express their views on disability rights and education policies.

Transcript: https://mcie.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Think-Inclusive-Now-2.25.25-with-Jenna-Rufo.txt

Reimagining IDEA: Why America’s Special Education Law Needs a Modern Overhaul: https://www.forbes.com/sites/scottwhite/2025/02/18/reimagining-idea-why-americas-special-education-law-needs-a-modern-overhaul/

Jenna's Website: https://www.empoweredschool.org/

MCIE: https://mcie.org/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Saving ED: Why the U.S. Department of Education is Essential for Students with Disabilities Feb 10, 2025

Show notes

About the Guest(s):

Glenna Wright-Gallo, is most the recent assistant secretary in the Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services at the United States Department of Education under the previous administration and a seasoned expert in public education, focusing on special education and policy implementation. With nearly two decades of experience in state educational agencies and a strategic stint at the U.S. Department of Education, Glenna has developed a deep understanding of inclusion and systemic improvement. As a recognized advocate for equitable educational opportunities, she actively works to enhance the quality of education for learners with disabilities. Her insights draw from a rich career in both academia and policy formation, bolstered by her personal advocacy as a parent and professional committed to public education.

Episode Summary:

In this episode of the Think Inclusive podcast, Glenna Wright-Gallo joins host Tim Villegas to delve into the pressing concerns surrounding public education, particularly in the context of special education. They discuss the threats and misconceptions about dismantling the ED and explore the role and significance of federal oversight in ensuring equitable education for all. Glenna offers her expert perspective on why maintaining the structure of public education is crucial while advocating for continuous reform and improvement.

Amidst a backdrop of political shifts and administrative changes, the conversation underscores the vital role the Department of Education plays in supporting diverse and inclusive educational environments. Keywords like "IDEA oversight," "federal funding," and "inclusive practices" punctuate their discussion as they highlight the consequences of weakening federal oversight. Glenna articulates the potential risks, emphasizing the need for a coordinated system that combines federal guidance with state implementation to support learners with disabilities effectively.

The discussion is timely and pertinent, especially in light of increased political attention on education. They examine the impact of executive orders on DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) initiatives, underscoring the critical nature of advocacy and public involvement. Glenna's insight offers listeners a comprehensive understanding of the complexities of public education reform, stressing the importance of informed community engagement and robust advocacy in shaping policy that serves every child equitably.

Complete Show Notes + Transcript: https://mcie.org/think-inclusive/saving-ed-why-the-u-s-department-of-education-is-essential-for-students-with-disabilities/

Key Takeaways:

The ED plays a crucial role in ensuring consistent educational standards across states, particularly for special education.
Dismantling the Department could result in fragmented oversight, reducing the effectiveness of IDEA and potentially reversing progress made in inclusive education.
Monitoring and public input are vital components of federal and state education oversight, yet both require significant public engagement to be effective.
Diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives remain essential for fostering inclusive learning environments, despite political opposition.
Advocacy and public voice are crucial in protecting and advancing public education policies that support equity and access for all students.

Resources:

Building and Sustaining Inclusive Educational Practices: https://bit.ly/ED-Inclusive-Practices

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Graduate Excluded at Ceremony Sparks Fight for Inclusion Jun 29, 2024

Show notes

About the Guest(s):

Ashlynn Rich: Ashlynn Rich is a recent high school graduate with Down syndrome. She graduated with honors and earned the title of scholar-athlete for her involvement in the school’s swim team. She also owns her own small business, Pop Queen Baked Goods. Ashlynn advocates for including students with disabilities in school and the community.

Linda Ramirez: Linda is the mother of Ashlynn Rich. She has tirelessly advocated for inclusive education and has fought for her daughter to be fully included in general education classrooms.

Episode Summary: In this compelling episode of Think Inclusive, Tim Villegas delves into the bittersweet experience of Ashlynn Rich, a high school graduate with Down syndrome, and her struggle for inclusion in everyday school life and her graduation ceremony. Despite her numerous achievements, Ashlynn faced exclusion during this milestone event, highlighting systemic issues within the education system regarding inclusivity.

Ashlynn and her mother, Linda Ramirez, share their emotional journey and the ongoing fight for a truly inclusive education system. The episode covers the immediate and long-term impacts of Ashlynn’s exclusion during her graduation, a school board meeting addressing the incident, and the broader implications of segregating students with disabilities. Through their story, listeners gain valuable insights into the challenges and importance of creating an inclusive educational environment for all students.

Transcript: https://otter.ai/u/Mv0TTx788S3qKBPvfhtAvLvw0Gg

Key Takeaways:

Exclusion at Graduation: Ashlynn was separated from her peers during her graduation ceremony, which caused her to feel hurt and disappointed.
Lifelong Advocacy: Linda Ramirez has fought for years across multiple school districts to ensure Ashlyn receives an inclusive education.
Systemic Issues: The incident underscores the broader problem of systemic exclusion of students with disabilities in education.
Public Apology: Following their speeches at a school board meeting, the superintendent publicly apologized for Ashlynn’s exclusion, admitting it should have been a parental decision.
Call for Action: Linda continues to advocate for better training for educators on inclusive practices to prevent such incidents in the future.

Resources:

Pop Queen Baked Goods: https://www.facebook.com/PopQueenBakery

Marietta Daily Journal:

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We All Learn Differently: Empowering Neurodivergent Middle Schoolers Jun 28, 2024

Show notes

About the Guest(s): Bari Levin is a retired special educator with over 34 years of experience, predominantly working with middle school students with learning differences. He is actively involved with the I Am Able Foundation, focusing on storytelling to remove the stigma associated with neurodiversity. Bari co-leads the We All Learn Differently campaign to foster understanding and empathy for neurodivergent students in middle schools.

Episode Summary: In this episode of the Think Inclusive Podcast, host Tim Villegas interviews Bari Levin, a seasoned special educator and advocate for neurodivergent students. The discussion dives into the We All Learn Differently campaign, an initiative that leverages storytelling to eliminate the stigma around learning differences in middle school students. Bari shares his insights on the importance of understanding and empathy in fostering a supportive learning environment for all students.

Bari Levin elaborates on the origins and objectives of the We All Learn Differently campaign, which she co-developed under the auspices of the Educating All Learners Alliance and the I Am Able Foundation. The campaign specifically targets middle school students, promoting a deeper understanding of learning differences through engaging videos, an interactive playbook, and classroom activities. Bari's extensive experience in special education is evident as she discusses the impact of recognizing diverse learning styles and providing tools for students to advocate for themselves.

Bari emphasizes the significance of creating positive dialogues around learning differences both in the classroom and at home. The campaign's playbook includes practical resources and activities designed for teachers, counselors, and parents to facilitate these crucial conversations. With the backing of the community and ongoing feedback from participants, Bari aims to expand the reach of the We All Learn Differently campaign, fostering environments where every student feels understood and valued.

Transcript: https://otter.ai/u/ClPrq7tWRreQJ71QvtJOhpu5ImY

Key Takeaways:

Understanding Learning Differences: The campaign highlights the importance of recognizing and accommodating diverse learning styles in middle school students.
Empowerment Through Storytelling: The campaign aims to foster empathy and reduce stigma by sharing personal stories of neurodivergent individuals.
Parental Involvement: Resources are provided to help parents have open conversations with their children about learning differences.
Practical Classroom Integration: The playbook offers accessible activities that can be seamlessly integrated into the existing curriculum without overwhelming educators.
Ongoing Development: Continued feedback and data collection aim to refine and expand the campaign’s resources and impact.

Resources:

I Am Able Foundation: https://www.iamablefoundation.org/

We All Learn Differently: https://www.wealllearndifferently.com/

Thanks to our sponsor: https://dcmp.org/

MCIE: https://www.mcie.org/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sam Drazin Discusses Building Inclusive Schools with Changing Perspectives Jun 27, 2024

Show notes

About the Guest(s): Sam Drazin is the founder and Executive Director of Changing Perspectives, a nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering inclusive educational practices. A former elementary school teacher, Sam brings firsthand experience and a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities in creating inclusive school environments. His organization works with schools nationwide and internationally, providing professional development, consulting, and curriculum resources aimed at building more inclusive classrooms and communities.

Episode Summary: In this thought-provoking episode of the Think Inclusive Podcast, host Tim Villegas engages in an enlightening discussion with Sam Drazin, founder of Changing Perspectives. Sam delves into his journey from being a classroom teacher to leading a nonprofit that aims to transform educational practices toward inclusion. This episode uncovers the importance of inclusive education, the structural obstacles that educators face, and actionable strategies for creating a more inclusive learning environment for all students.

Sam Drazin shares his insights on why inclusion is vital, not just as a theoretical concept but as a practical approach that mirrors the real world. Highlighting that schools often segregate based on ability, Sam argues for schools to act as microcosms of a diverse society. This ensures students learn not just academic skills, but also about empathy and collaboration, preparing them for a more inclusive future. Villages and Drazin also discuss the often-gleaned yet practical hurdles educators face, advocating for a shift in mindset from "I can't" to "How can we?" This focus on growth mindsets over fixed mindsets is central to Drazin’s philosophy and the work of Changing Perspectives.

Transcript: https://otter.ai/u/kMOqK-BonE7gdPEJaRZRVkI8iFI

Key Takeaways:

Embrace Inclusion as Real-World Preparation: Schools should act as mini-societies that teach students about diversity, empathy, and inclusion.
Combat Ableistic Structures: The current education system is inadvertently ableistic, designed more to push out homogeneous groups of students rather than celebrating diversity.
Mindset Shift: Moving from a fixed to a growth mindset is crucial for educators to address the challenges in implementing inclusive education.
Actionable Strategies: Schools should identify specific, actionable goals for inclusion rather than vague or broad initiatives, enabling measurable progress.
Empowerment Through Training: Customized, hands-on professional development can significantly impact teachers' ability to create inclusive classrooms.

Resources:

Changing Perspectives Website: https://changingperspectivesnow.org/

Thanks to our sponsor for the month of June: https://dcmp.org/

MCIE: https://www.mcie.org/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How to Know You Are Implementing UDL with Loui Lord Nelson Jun 20, 2024

Show notes

About the Guest(s): Loui Lord Nelson, an internationally recognized expert in Universal Design for Learning (UDL), is the author of the bestselling book, "Design and Deliver." A former special education teacher, Loui is renowned for her work on UDL at various levels, including district, national, and international stages. She has been awarded her postdoc by CAST, influenced policies, and educational practices in the US and abroad, including work with the US Agency for International Development (USAID). Loui also hosts the "UDL in 15 Minutes" podcast, where she shares global insights into UDL implementation.

Episode Summary: In this enlightening episode of Think Inclusive, host Tim Villegas delves into the intricate aspects of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) with Loui Lord Nelson, a globally recognized UDL leader. Loui shares her fascinating journey, from being a special education teacher to becoming a thought leader in educational practices that promote inclusivity. The episode is a cornucopia of practical advice, transformative insights, and real-world examples of UDL in action.

Throughout the conversation, Loui elaborates on the UDL guidelines, emphasizing their role as a strategic framework to help educators design flexible learning environments and engagement strategies. The discussion explores the importance of creating a "buffet" of learning opportunities tailored to diverse learners and debunks the myth that UDL is just an overwhelming collection of tasks. Louie underscores the significance of reflecting on teaching practices and remaining adaptable, encouraging teachers to integrate UDL gradually and purposefully into their planning.

In addition to practical tips for classroom implementation, the episode also navigates through the challenges of time management and collaboration among educators. Loui provides valuable guidance on utilizing tight communication structures and carving out collaborative planning time. The episode wraps up with an inspiring "mystery question" that reveals personal anecdotes from Loui and Tim, highlighting small victories and the joys of lifelong learning.

Transcript: https://otter.ai/u/IB4Xa2pMR1GsXEsF58giaP-72IU?

Key Takeaways:

Understanding UDL Guidelines: Viewing UDL as a supportive framework rather than an add-on can transform teaching practices.
Reflective Teaching: Reflection and intent in teaching are critical for effective UDL implementation.
Collaboration: Structured, reliable communication platforms are essential for keeping educators synchronized, especially in schools with limited planning time.
Time Management: Focus on one guideline at a time for a semester to deepen understanding without feeling overwhelmed.
Environmental Design: Effective UDL practices often stem from well-planned learning environments that anticipate learner variability.

Resources:

The UDL Approach - https://theudlapproach.com/

CAST UDL Guidelines - https://udlguidelines.cast.org/

Design and Deliver - https://products.brookespublishing.com/Design-and-Deliver-P1237.aspx

UDL in 15 Minutes - https://theudlapproach.com/podcasts/

Sponsor: https://dcmp.org/

Website: https://mcie.org

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Reframing Special Education Using Strengths-Based IEPs with April Rehrig Jun 13, 2024

Show notes

About the Guest(s): April Rehrig is the founder of Rise Educational Advocacy and Consulting, LLC. With over 20 years of experience as an elementary school teacher and school psychologist in Los Angeles, April is a licensed educational psychologist and a board-certified special education advocate. She has attended the prestigious COPAA SEAT 2.0 and 3.0 programs and is a certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist and Master IEP Coach. Her services include parent advocacy, IEP coaching, and DIY IEP workshops.

Episode Summary: In this insightful episode of Think Inclusive, host Tim Villegas speaks with April Rehrig, founder of Rise Educational Advocacy and Consulting, LLC, who shares her profound insights on writing strengths-based IEPs (Individualized Education Programs). They discuss the complications of IEP documents and the importance of reframing special education to focus on students' strengths instead of deficits.

Rehrig elaborates on the systemic issues causing confusion around IEPs, including the medical model traditionally used to write them, and offers strategic advice on how parents and teachers can structure IEPs to genuinely benefit students. The conversation touches on practical aspects like the importance of effective IEP training, using person-centered language, and the role of negotiation within IEP meetings. This episode is essential listening for anyone invested in special education and striving for better educational outcomes for all students.

Transcript: https://otter.ai/u/G4kZrOPQzj9e1ewoTFhUN6kYNow?utm_source=copy_url

Key Takeaways:

Reframing Special Education: Shift from a deficit-based to a strengths-based approach in IEPs to better support students.
The Importance of Language: Utilize person-centered language to write effective and empowering IEPs.
Strategic Questions: Asking the right questions and focusing on students' needs can lead to better negotiation outcomes in IEP meetings.
Effective Training: Teachers need robust and practical training to write and implement strengths-based IEPs.
Collaboration over Competition: Encouraging teachers, parents, and advocates to work together rather than viewing the process as adversarial.

Resources:

Website: Rise Educational Advocacy and Consulting, LLC
Teachers Pay Teachers Store: Rise Educational Advocacy on TPT
Instagram: @RiseEdAdvocacy
MCIE Summer Insititute 2024: https://secure.givelively.org/event/maryland-coalition-for-inclusive-education-inc/mcie-summer-institute-2024

MCIE: https://www.mcie.org/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Breaking Barriers: How JDS Creative Academy is Empowering Adults with Developmental Disabilities May 30, 2024

Show notes

About the Guest(s): Diane Strand is an accomplished entrepreneur, influential leader in the creative industry, and an advocate for inclusion through the arts. With a rich background that includes credentials from iconic shows such as "Friends," "General Hospital," and "Veronica's Closet," Diane's expertise spans across production and acting. Alongside her professional acting partner and husband Scott Strand, Diane has co-authored a guide to breaking into the acting industry. She is a leading force behind the JDS Creative Academy, a non-profit organization aiming to promote inclusivity and creative learning for individuals with a variety of learning styles, including those with developmental disabilities. Diane's work is centered around her belief in the transformative power of the arts and her commitment to opening up creative opportunities for all.

Episode Summary: In this episode of the Think Inclusive podcast, Tim Villegas engages in an insightful conversation with Diane Strand, a passionate advocate for inclusive practices and the power of the arts in education and workforce development. The dialogue delves into Diane's personal experiences with exclusion and inclusion, her journey in the creative industry, and her transformative work with JDS Creative Academy.

Beginning with Diane's own encounter with dyslexia and the pivotal moment she felt included through the school play, the episode dives into how these experiences shaped her understanding of inclusion and led to her embrace of the arts as a universal connector. Diane discusses her dedication to helping individuals, especially those with developmental disabilities, find their passion and purpose through a variety of creative endeavors. The conversation also explores the adaptable curriculum Diane has crafted, with the goal of fostering creative thinking and practical skills among learners of all abilities.

Transcript: https://otter.ai/u/OAym_QySWLT636mg_2O3I8tLiAs

Key Takeaways:

The significance of inclusion in fostering a sense of value and belonging among individuals.
The arts as a powerful tool for inclusivity and learning across various educational and workforce settings.
The personal growth and development that can stem from pushing through exclusion and embracing one's capabilities.
JDS Creative Academy as an innovative model for teaching video production and multimedia skills to a diverse learning community.
Diane's approach to curriculum development which prioritizes hands-on, tailored learning experiences to fit individual needs.

Resources:

Diane Strand's website: https://dianestrand.com/

JDS Creative Academy: https://jdscreativeacademy.org/

MCIE: https://mcie.org/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Judy Heumann's Legacy and the Future of Disability Activism Oct 05, 2023

Show notes

About The Guest(s):

Andy Arias: DEIA expert, national policy advisor, instructor at Georgetown University, actor, and producer.
Diego Mariscal: Founder, CEO, and Chief Disabled Officer of 2Gether International, an accelerator that supports disabled entrepreneurs.
Emily Ladau: Disability rights activist, author of "Demystifying Disability," and board member of Kids Included Together.

Summary: In this episode, Torrie Dunlop hosts a panel discussion with Andy Arias, Diego Mariscal, and Emily Liddell to honor the legacy of Judy Heumann, a pioneer and advocate in the disability rights movement. The panelists discuss how Judy's work has inspired their own activism, the most important issues facing the disability community today, and the impact of intersectionality in disability rights. They also share personal stories and reflections on Judy as a person, highlighting her generosity, humor, and commitment to connecting people. The panelists discuss how they plan to continue Judy's legacy in their own work, emphasizing the importance of authentic representation and collaboration in the disability community.

Transcript: https://otter.ai/u/_LOEalVNz27i_mdqvHaNnXHQVqQ

Key Takeaways:

Judy Heumann's legacy is characterized by her commitment to collaboration, community building, and intersectionality in the disability rights movement.
The most important issues facing the disability community today are interconnected and require a holistic approach to address barriers in healthcare, employment, education, transportation, and more.
Judy's impact as a person extended beyond her advocacy work, as she was known for her humor, generosity, and genuine interest in connecting with others.
To honor Judy's legacy, it is crucial to prioritize authentic representation and collaboration in all aspects of disability rights work, including storytelling, filmmaking, and entrepreneurship.

Kids Included Together: https://www.kit.org/

Andy Arias: https://www.instagram.com/andyswheelz/

Diego Mariscal: https://www.linkedin.com/in/Diego-Mariscal/

Emily Ladau: https://emilyladau.com/

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