Think Inclusive

Latest Episodes:

The Power of Storytelling in Disability Rights with Jeiri Flores Apr 10, 2025

Show notes

About the Guest(s):

Jeiri Flores is a Puerto Rican disability rights activist based in Rochester, New York. After earning her bachelor's degree in Sociology and African American Studies from SUNY Brockport in 2014, she pursued a master's in Human Development at the University of Rochester. As a passionate advocate for disability rights, Jeiri shares her insights on inclusion, disability, and intersectionality at colleges and conferences, aiming to enlighten and inspire change. Her mission is to empower disabled youth to redefine societal narratives around disability.

Episode Summary:

In this episode of Think Inclusive listeners are introduced to the compelling story and advocacy journey of Jeiri Flores, a dynamic disability rights activist. Jeiri opens up about the relentless challenges faced by disabled individuals, particularly highlighting the dehumanization and isolation embedded within societal and systemic structures. Through engaging storytelling, she discusses the critical role of love and belonging in fostering truly inclusive communities and delves into how these spaces can transform by acknowledging the humanity of every individual.

Throughout the conversation, Jeiri reflects on her advocacy's roots, nurtured from a young age while translating for her family, and how her practices have evolved over time. Key themes such as navigating healthcare systems, societal expectations, and the perpetual need for systemic change are explored. Jeiri also emphasizes the power of sharing personal narratives, not only as a form of advocacy but as a way to bridge connections between diverse experiences. As she navigates topics like love, belonging, and her intersectional identity, Jeiri provides a rich tapestry of insights that resonate deeply with educators, advocates, and anyone passionate about disability rights and inclusion.

Complete show notes + transcript: https://mcie.org/think-inclusive/the-power-of-storytelling-in-disability-rights-with-jeiri-flores/

Key Takeaways:

Authenticity and vulnerability are essential in effective advocacy, as they help build deeper connections and understanding.
Navigating healthcare and societal systems poses significant challenges for disabled individuals, often leading to stress and self-segregation.
Inclusion spaces thrive on recognizing every individual's humanity and embracing differences, with love serving as a guiding principle.
Storytelling in advocacy can be a powerful tool for raising awareness and encouraging systemic change.
The importance of engaging diverse voices in decision-making processes, particularly those directly affected by the outcomes.

Resources:

Jeiri on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/dangerously_gifted/

Jeiri on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeiri-flores-b7bb3651/

Jeiri's story about her mom: https://youtu.be/bq62Q7Cg85g?si=Il5zrhoH74ZcYRaa

Thank you to our sponsor, IXL: https://www.ixl.com/inclusive

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

Disability Inclusive Curriculum: Changing Mindsets in Pennsylvania Schools and Nationwide Apr 03, 2025

Show notes

About the Guest(s):

Lisa Aquila is a dedicated advocate for disability rights and Vice Chair of the Board at Disability Equality in Education (DEE). Lisa's journey into disability advocacy began after a career as a home care attendant was cut short due to her own disability. As an education outreach specialist, she has been pivotal in lobbying for disability-inclusive curriculum legislation, co-founding the Coalition on Disability Inclusive Curriculum, and advancing the social model of disability. Her work aims to integrate disability discourse into general education, inspiring future generations to embrace diversity.

Episode Summary:

In this enlightening episode of Think Inclusive, host Tim Villegas welcomes Lisa Aquila, a fervent advocate for disability rights and Vice Chair at Disability Equality in Education. They explore the importance of integrating disability into K-12 education, emphasizing that disability is a natural part of human diversity. Through personal anecdotes and professional insights, Lisa outlines her journey from home care attendant to becoming a key figure in disability advocacy.

Lisa shares her experience spearheading the disability-inclusive curriculum initiative, highlighting the success of the program piloted in Pennsylvania. The conversation delves into the social model of disability, focusing on how societal barriers can be dismantled through education. Both Lisa and Tim discuss the potential of early education in changing perceptions, advocating for resources and support systems that enable teachers to effectively incorporate disability studies into classrooms nationwide.

Complete show notes + transcript: https://mcie.org/think-inclusive/disability-inclusive-curriculum-changing-mindsets-in-pennsylvania-schools-and-nationwide/

Key Takeaways:

Disability is a natural part of human diversity and should be woven into everyday conversations and education to dismantle stigma.
The disability-inclusive curriculum aims to educate K-12 students on the contributions of disabled individuals, promoting understanding and acceptance.
Lisa Aquila and DEE work under the principle of "Nothing About Us Without Us," ensuring that disabled voices are central in creating educational content.
The pilot project in Pennsylvania offers a blueprint for disability education that could inspire similar initiatives nationwide.
Teachers have continuous support for integrating these lessons into their classrooms, fostering a more inclusive generation.

Resources:

Disability Equality in Education (DEE): https://www.disabilityequalityeducation.org/

DEE email: info@DisabilityEqualityEducation.org

Call DEE at (724)726-1155

Thanks to our sponsor, IXL. https://www.ixl.com/inclusive

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

Navigating Change in Education: A Conversation with Dr. Shelley Moore Mar 27, 2025

Show notes

About the Guest(s):

Dr. Shelley Moore is a renowned inclusive education researcher, teacher consultant, and storyteller based in British Columbia, Canada. Shelley holds a Special Education undergraduate degree from the University of Alberta, a Master's from Simon Fraser University, and a PhD from the University of British Columbia. She is highly sought after internationally for her insights on designing grade-level academic classrooms using strength-based and responsive approaches to include students with intellectual disabilities. She runs Outside Pin Consulting, a company dedicated to promoting diverse voices and expertise in inclusive education.

Episode Summary:

Join Tim Villegas in a riveting episode of the Think Inclusive Podcast featuring Dr. Shelley Moore, a leading voice in inclusive education. Kicking off the episode, Dr. Moore shares empowering strategies for educators to embrace inclusivity and teamwork within schools, emphasizing the transformational potential of collaboration. The conversation weaves through her personal journey as a parent, shedding light on mindful practices amidst the struggles educators face due to a lack of resources, systemic challenges, and DEI efforts in the U.S. and Canada.

Furthermore, Dr. Moore and Tim delve into their professional practices, specifically within mindfulness's impact on educators. Touching on cultural and systemic barriers to inclusivity, they discuss the resistance of change and the pressure on educators to reform traditional models. Dr. Moore highlights her latest initiative, Outside Pin Consulting, which fosters a collective community for diverse perspectives, advocating for student agency over independence. Ending on a thought-provoking note, Dr. Moore shares insights on moving forward amidst adversity in the field of inclusive education.

Complete show note + transcript: https://mcie.org/think-inclusive/navigating-change-in-education-a-conversation-with-dr-shelley-moore/

Key Takeaways:

Educators are encouraged to collaborate with one another, emphasizing the value of teamwork in creating inclusive classroom environments.
The concept of independence versus agency is explored, highlighting the need for tailored expectations and goals for students with disabilities.
Outside Pin Consulting is introduced as a platform for gathering diverse educational voices and expertise to work towards inclusive education.
The importance of mindfulness and meditation is discussed as a valuable tool for educators to stay grounded and present amidst chaotic and overwhelming circumstances.
Dr. Moore and Tim address systemic educational challenges, touching on the topic of limited resources and the misconception of resource allocation in inclusive practices.

Resources:

Outside Pin Consulting: https://www.drshelleymoore.com/outside-pin

"People are NOT Supports" video by Shelley Moore: https://youtu.be/rOlUnnxCspA?si=12TxE-iN64KKMFSI

Thank you to our sponsor, IXL: https://www.ixl.com/inclusive

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

Creating Neurodiversity Affirming Schools with Emily Kircher-Morris and Amanda Morin Mar 20, 2025

Show notes

About the Guest(s):

Amanda Morin: A renowned neurodivergent neurodiversity activist, Amanda Morin is an award-winning author, specialist in early childhood and behavioral studies, a certified teacher, and a nationally acclaimed speaker. She has dedicated her career to creating accessible, inclusive environments for neurodivergent individuals, working with educational professionals and parents to enhance understanding of mental health, neurodiversity, and disability.

Emily Kircher Morris: Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and host of the Neurodiversity Podcast, Emily specializes in supporting neurodivergent, twice-exceptional, and gifted individuals. Based in St. Louis, Missouri, she began her career in education and now runs a private mental health practice. Through her books and podcast, Emily explores the complex psychological, educational, and social needs of neurodivergent people.

Complete show notes + transcript: https://mcie.org/think-inclusive/creating-neurodiversity-affirming-schools-with-emily-kircher-morris-and-amanda-morin/

Episode Summary:

Explore the transformative world of neurodiversity in education with host Tim Villegas and his guests Emily Kircher Morris, and Amanda Morin. This episode of Think Inclusive focuses on thought-provoking insights from their book, "Neurodiversity Affirming Schools." The conversation ventures into the heart of inclusive education, emphasizing strategies that create positive learning environments for all students by fostering an understanding of neurodiversity in schools.

Discover how Amanda Morin and Emily Kircher Morris harness their expertise to challenge traditional perspectives on behavior and education. The dialogue introduces the concept of using identity-first language rather than person-first language to better support neurodivergent individuals, a practice that has stemmed from the neurodiversity movement. They address critical issues such as behavior management and the importance of co-regulation and mental health awareness among educators. By promoting a shift from ableism to inclusivity, this episode offers a guide for educators striving to make impactful changes in their teaching practices.

Key Takeaways:

-Neurodiversity-affirming practices are transforming educational environments by embracing and supporting all brain types and learning strategies, benefiting students and educators alike.

-Amanda and Emily highlight the significance of using identity-first language in place of person-first terminology, as promoted by self-advocates within the neurodiversity movement.

-Fostering a collaborative atmosphere among educators and related service providers is essential for supporting neurodivergent and twice-exceptional students.

-The discussion on behavior reframes conventional perspectives, advocating for understanding stress behavior and emphasizing co-regulation between teachers and students.

-The podcast offers practical recommendations, encouraging educators to make small yet meaningful changes that lead to substantial improvements in inclusive education practices.

Resources:

Neurodiversity Podcast: Hosted by Emily Kircher Morris, investigating the needs of neurodivergent individuals: https://www.neurodiversitypodcast.com/

Neurodiversity Affirming Schools Podcast: A limited series complementing the book by Amanda Morin and Emily Kircher Morris: https://www.neurodiversityaffirmingschools.com/

Thanks to our sponsor, IXL: https://www.ixl.com/inclusive

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

Emmy-Winning Documentary Everybody Dance Celebrates Inclusion Mar 18, 2025

Show notes

About the Guest(s):

Dan Watt is a distinguished producer and director, recognized for his work on the 2024 Emmy Award-winning documentary "Everybody Dance." With a rich background in film, Dan has worked on notable projects with Columbia Pictures, including "House Bunny" and "Just Go with It." Beyond film production, he collaborated on a documentary with entertainment icon Simon Cowell about the band One Direction. Dan is currently producing upcoming documentaries with Tony and Pulitzer Prize-winning producer Daryl Roth and Rosie O'Donnell. His notable work underscores his commitment to inclusive storytelling and transformative educational experiences.

Episode Summary:

Dive into this insightful episode of Think Inclusive, hosted by Tim Villegas, featuring the accomplished producer and director, Dan Watt. Broadcasting from the CEC Conference in Baltimore, Tim explores the intricacies and inspiration behind Dan's Emmy Award-winning work, "Everybody Dance." This compelling documentary unravels the transformative power of inclusive dance education, emphasizing community and personal growth for children with disabilities.

This episode delves deeply into the concept of inclusivity and the integral role of community and arts in fostering an environment where neurotypical children and those with disabilities can flourish together. Dan Watt shares his journey from working at Columbia Pictures to creating a heartwarming documentary that highlights the resilience and determination of its young subjects. Key insights include the importance of exposure to diverse environments, the benefits of inclusive educational practices, and the profound insights shared by the children featured in "Everybody Dance." Learn how fostering inclusive spaces in educational and extracurricular settings can break down barriers and transform lives.

Complete show notes + transcript: https://mcie.org/think-inclusive/emmy-winning-documentary-everybody-dance-celebrates-inclusion/

Key Takeaways:

Inclusive environments allow neurotypical kids and kids with disabilities to learn from each other, fostering understanding and community.
The film "Everybody Dance" showcases how arts and dancing can build confidence and determination, benefiting children in multiple areas of life.
Dan Watt stresses the importance of instructors adapting their teaching styles to reach all students, enhancing inclusivity in educational settings.
Establishing safe and inclusive spaces for all students encourages them to express themselves freely and grow together.
The documentary highlights the shared human desire for belonging and the joy of finding a community where everyone fits in.

Resources:

Everybody Dance: https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B0B5KLD2JD/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r

Dan Watt on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dancindanw/

Thanks to our sponsor, IXL. Learn more: https://www.ixl.com/inclusive

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

Battle Fatigue: The Fight for Inclusive Education with Dr. Priya Lalvani Mar 06, 2025

Show notes

About the Guest(s):

Dr. Priya Lalvani is a professor of Disability Studies at Montclair State University, where she also coordinates inclusive education graduate programs. Holding a PhD in developmental psychology from CUNY and a Master of Arts in Special Education from Columbia University, Dr. Lalvani brings over 14 years of professional experience working with young adults with disabilities in New York City. Her academic focus is on ableism, the segregation of students with disabilities in educational settings, and she has authored over 20 research articles alongside the co-authored book, "Undoing Ableism."

Episode Summary:

In this thought-provoking episode of Think Inclusive, host Tim Villegas engages in a deep conversation with Dr. Priya Lalvani, an esteemed professor and advocate for the rights of children with disabilities. The episode kicks off with Dr. Lalvani's poignant thoughts on the paradox of segregating children to foster a sense of belonging, asking difficult questions about educational environments that fail these students. This podcast episode is an insightful dive into the history and ongoing challenges of parent advocacy in special education.

Dr. Priya Lalvani shares her extensive research on ableism in education, uncovering systemic resistance parents face when fighting for inclusive educational practices. A significant part of the discussion revolves around Dr. Lalvani's recent study on "battle fatigue" experienced by parents advocating within the system, offering both a critique of current practices and practical solutions to overcome these barriers. This episode is a must-listen for educators, policymakers, and advocates passionate about genuine inclusion, as it delves deeply into the responsibilities and challenges of creating inclusive spaces for all learners.

Complete show notes + transcript: https://mcie.org/think-inclusive/battle-fatigue-the-fight-for-inclusive-education-with-dr-priya-lalvani/

Key Takeaways:

Segregation vs. Inclusion: Dr. Lalvani questions the logic behind segregating students with disabilities to create spaces of belonging, advocating instead for transforming existing educational environments to become more inclusive.
Parent Advocacy and Systemic Challenges: The history and current landscape of parent advocacy in special education reveal systemic barriers that make the fight for inclusion strenuous for families.
Battle Fatigue in Advocacy: Dr. Lalvani introduces the concept of "battle fatigue," describing the emotional and physical toll on parents as they continuously advocate for their children’s rights in a resistant educational system.
Privilege Disparities: The discussion highlights how disparities in privilege affect the efficacy of advocacy efforts, with certain families able to leverage resources and knowledge to push for change more effectively than others.
Policy Recommendations: Practical solutions, such as improving professional development for educators on IDEA and inclusive practices, could shift the current paradigm towards more effective inclusion.

Resources:

Undoing Ableism: https://bit.ly/3Ftd4v9

Constructing the (M)other: https://bit.ly/4iRRT4h

Battle Fatigue: Parents, Institutionalized Ableism, and the “Fight” for Inclusive Education: https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/15407969241259365

Thank you to our sponsor, IXL: https://www.ixl.com/inclusive

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

Peer Tutoring: A Key to Inclusive Education Success Feb 27, 2025

Show notes

About the Guest(s):

Dr. Rebecca Brooks serves as an Associate Professor of Education for the School of Education and Program Director for the Aspiring Scholars Program (an inclusive post-secondary education program for students with intellectual disabilities) at California State University at San Marcos. Dr. Brooks has worked with individuals with disabilities in recreational, vocational, residential, and educational settings for over 30 years. Prior to her faculty appointment, she served as a special educator in public schools for 16 years, dedicating her career to including students with disabilities in general education settings. She developed peer tutoring programs and focused on creating accessible curriculum for all students. Her published works have been in the areas of inclusive education, curriculum adaptations, and peer tutoring. She is a nationwide presenter and consultant in the area of effective inclusive schooling practices. Her research interests focus on access to general education curriculum, accommodations and modifications, the development and implementation of peer tutoring support systems, and inclusive post-secondary education programs.

Episode Summary:

In this compelling episode of Think Inclusive, Tim Villegas sits down with Rebecca Brooks to delve into the nuances of peer tutoring as a vital strategy in inclusive education. The discussion kicks off with defining what peer tutoring entails and differentiating it from peer buddy systems often rolled out in schools. Rebecca brings to light her extensive experience and insights on effectively implementing peer tutoring systems, underlining how this approach benefits not just students with disabilities but also the peers who assist them.

Rebecca Brooks shares vital information on the logistics of setting up peer tutoring systems, including selecting appropriate peer tutors, training, and ensure ethical practices are upheld. The episode explores the significant benefits peer tutoring has on both academic and social facets for students with disabilities. Additionally, Rebecca highlights the profound impact this interaction has on peer tutors, preparing them for roles in diverse and inclusive societal settings. With insightful anecdotes and informed advice, this episode offers educators, administrators, and inclusive education advocates the tools and motivation to adopt more integrative teaching practices.

Key Takeaways:

Understanding Peer Tutoring: Peer tutoring involves a structured system where peers provide academic and social support to students with disabilities, differing significantly from informal peer buddy systems.
Selection and Training: Successful peer tutoring programs rely heavily on careful selection of tutors and offering them adequate training and guidance to support their peers effectively.
Personal Growth and Benefits: Both peers and students with disabilities gain immense personal and educational benefits, fostering a culture of inclusion and mutual growth.
Documenting Peer Support: The episode discusses how peer tutoring can and should be documented within IEPs to align with student goals and ensure strategic supports.
Collaborative Cultural Change: Implementing peer tutoring should be part of a broader systemic change aimed at creating inclusive educational environments, emphasizing collaboration among educators and school leaders.

Resources:

Rebecca Brooks' Email: rbrooks@csusm.edu

MCIE: https://mcie.org/

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

Navigating the Path to True Inclusion with the Integrated Schools Podcast Feb 20, 2025

Show notes

About the Guest(s):

Val Brown is a Black mom from North Carolina. She believes that education is a vehicle for social change, and encourages parents, caregivers, and educators to engage in public discourse about critical topics because it allows them to learn with and from others.

Andrew Lefkowits is a White dad from Denver, and the father of an 8th grader and 5th grader. He believes that #ThurgoodWasRight – unless our kids learn together, there is little hope we will learn to live together and understand each other.

Together they host the Integrated Schools Podcast.

Episode Summary:

In this engaging episode of Think Inclusive, host Tim Villegas sits down with Val Brown and Andrew Lefkowits, co-hosts of the Integrated Schools Podcast, to discuss the pressing themes of integration and inclusion in education. The conversation traces back to the origins of the Integrated Schools organization, driven by the transformative decisions of its founder, Courtney Mykytyn. This episode provides a profound discussion on the role of parents and caregivers in the educational landscape, highlighting how meaningful integration goes beyond desegregation to create genuinely inclusive environments.

Focusing on the barriers to achieving inclusive schools, the episode delves into how systemic structures, societal pressures, and entrenched beliefs shape our educational institutions. Through personal anecdotes and professional insights, Val and Andrew explore how privilege, race, and disability intersect within the educational system. Val strongly emphasizes the need for robust conversations about race and inclusion, while Andrew points out the vital role schools play in nurturing a sense of belonging and community among students.

Key Takeaways:

Integrated Schools Podcast began from Courtney Mykytyn's decision to send her children to a local, predominantly nonwhite school, which led to broader discussions about educational inclusion.

Authentic integration in educational settings requires more than just mixing diverse student bodies; it necessitates creating spaces where all forms of diversity are acknowledged and embraced.

The societal and cultural pressures surrounding "good parenting" often conflict with broader social justice ideals, influencing parental choices in educational settings.

Conversations about inclusion must extend beyond race to address disability and other social identities, encouraging educators and communities to engage in ongoing dialogue and action.

Both guests highlight the importance of schools as environments where students learn to embrace diversity and foster inclusive communities, which can have a lasting impact on their perceptions and actions in society.

Resources:

Integrated Schools Podcast: https://integratedschools.org/podcasts/

Transcript + Show Notes: https://mcie.org/think-inclusive/navigating-the-path-to-true-inclusion-with-the-integrated-schools-podcast/

Thank you to our sponsor, IXL. https://www.ixl.com/inclusive

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

Empowering Youth with Disabilities Through Sexual Health Education Feb 13, 2025

Show notes

About the Guest(s):

Connie Senior is an Assistant Director and Project Manager for Project SHINE at YAI. She has over 27 years of experience in neurodevelopmental disabilities and mental health. With extensive experience advocating for and supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), Connie plays a crucial role in developing resources for this community. Her work focuses on bridging gaps in education and providing individuals with IDD the tools they need for personal empowerment, particularly in realms like sexual health education.

Breon Williams is a Project SHINE Youth Ambassador who is committed to educating and raising awareness about SHINE’s sexual health toolkit for youth with disabilities. Drawing from his personal experiences as a young man with I/DD, he connects meaningfully with both youth and families, fostering open and inclusive conversations. Williams earned a general diploma in high school and pursued two years of college. Like many young people with disabilities, he initially felt uneasy discussing sexual health. However, through his journey of self-empowerment, Williams has overcome these challenges and now strives to help others gain confidence in having these important conversations.

Episode Summary:

In a thought-provoking episode of the Think Inclusive Podcast, host Tim Villegas from the Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education discusses Project SHINE with Connie Senior and Breon Williams. Developed by YAI in collaboration with Planned Parenthood and other agencies, Project SHINE aims to bridge gaps in sexual health education for youth with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). The episode highlights the project's significant impact, including the launch of "Your Sexual Health Toolkit," a comprehensive platform empowering individuals with IDD. Connie explains how the project addresses the lack of sexual education in schools and adapts to different learning needs, while Breon shares his experiences promoting the toolkit and educating his family. They also emphasize the role of educators in integrating these resources into learning programs to support students with IDD holistically.

Key Takeaways:

Bridging Educational Gaps: Project SHINE aims to fill in the existing gaps in sexual health education for youth with IDD, ensuring they have the knowledge needed for personal safety and advocacy.
Comprehensive Resources: Your Sexual Health Toolkit is an accessible, user-friendly resource designed to cater to individuals with IDD, featuring tools like glossaries, videos, and interactive games.
Empowerment Through Education: Proper sexual health education empowers individuals with IDD to make informed choices, report abuse, and maintain body autonomy.
Importance of Advocacy: Youth Ambassadors like Breon Williams are integral in spreading awareness about the toolkit and bridging the information gap within communities.
Collaborative Efforts: The initiative underscores the need for collaboration among families, caregivers, and educational institutions to effectively deliver and promote inclusive education.

Resources:

Your Sexual Health Toolkit: https://yoursexualhealthtoolkit.org

Thank you to our sponsor, IXL. https://www.ixl.com/inclusive

Complete Show Notes + Transcript: https://mcie.org/think-inclusive/empowering-youth-with-disabilities-through-sexual-health-education/

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

Building Inclusive Schools with Sam Drazin Feb 06, 2025

Show notes

About the Guest(s):

Sam Drazin is the founder and Executive Director of Changing Perspectives, an organization focused on promoting inclusive education and social inclusion. Sam has extensive experience as a former teacher and is a sought-after speaker and consultant for schools seeking to implement inclusive practices. Under Sam's leadership, Changing Perspectives offers professional development, coaching, and consulting services and has a broad reach within schools across the United States and internationally.

Episode Summary:

In this engaging episode of Think Inclusive, host Tim Villegas welcomes back Sam Drazin, Executive Director of Changing Perspectives, to talk about the flourishing field of inclusive education. The discussion delves into how inclusion is becoming a priority for schools, with institutions increasingly incorporating these practices into their strategic plans and budgets. Sam shares his extensive travel itinerary, reflecting the growing demand for guidance in inclusive education across states such as Maryland and Massachusetts, and even internationally with a planned conference in Cambodia.

Sam explains how Changing Perspectives supports schools through a combination of professional development, coaching, and site visits. He articulates the importance of creating a vision for inclusive education that schools can implement through specific goals. Sam highlights notable projects such as inclusive practices during morning meetings and recess, emphasizing the tangible benefits of breaking down silos within educational environments. The conversation underscores the complexity of implementing fully inclusive practices but champions the necessity of taking incremental steps for sustainable change in education systems.

Transcript: https://otter.ai/u/30b6GuxydPA04S1PD8J94YnDtPw

Key Takeaways:

Changing Perspectives provides integral support to schools through professional development, coaching, and site visits to foster inclusive practices.
Creating a clear vision for inclusive education helps schools identify specific, tangible goals that foster long-term change.
Sam Drazin emphasizes the need for educators to differentiate between accommodations and modifications to better support diverse student needs.
True inclusion should blend so seamlessly into school culture that it becomes a norm rather than a noticeable addition.
Sam highlights the effectiveness of starting with low-hanging fruit to build confidence and commitment to inclusive practices.

Resources:

Changing Perspectives: https://changingperspectivesnow.org/

Books mentioned: "Enemy Pie," "Out of My Mind," "Happiness Falls"

MCIE: https://mcie.org/

Thanks to our sponsor, IXL: https://www.ixl.com/inclusive

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