Podcasts about think inclusive

About the Guest(s): Riley Mulcahy is the founder and Executive Director of The Riley Project, a nonprofit organization focused on storytelling and community building for individuals with learning differences. A graduate of St. Mary's College of California with a background in English and Creative Writing, Riley is also the Marketing and Admissions Associate at Compass High School, where he champions inclusive, strengths-based education. He is an advocate for neurodiversity, dedicating his efforts to initiatives like the Neurodiversity Education Series, aimed at creating supportive systems for neurodivergent individuals. Episode Summary: In this enlightening episode of Think Inclusive, host Tim Villegas chats with Riley Mulcahy, a prominent advocate for individuals with learning differences. Riley discusses his journey with dyslexia and his commitment to creating inclusive environments through storytelling and advocacy. As the founder of the Riley Project, Riley sheds light on challenges and triumphs within the landscape of neurodivergent education. The episode gives listeners a deep dive into the concepts of multisensory instruction, the implications of the "Wait to Fail" model in schools, and the pivotal role of early intervention in supporting students with learning differences. Listeners will gain insights as Riley emphasizes the transformative power of storytelling in social change, drawing parallels between historical movements and current advocacy for neurodiversity. With a focus on practical strategies and technologies aiding learning differences, the discussion encompasses everything from reading interventions to the potential of AI-driven education tools. Whether you're an educator, parent, or advocate, this episode is packed with valuable information on fostering inclusive, supportive educational environments where all students can excel. Complete show notes and transcript.Key Takeaways: Power of Storytelling: Riley highlights how storytelling has been central to social justice movements, emphasizing its potential to drive change in the education system for those with learning differences. Multisensory Reading Instructions: Discussing the effectiveness of multisensory instruction methods, Riley underscores its importance for students struggling with traditional learning approaches. Early Intervention and Support: The episode stresses the necessity of early intervention and the creation of strength-based IEPs to help neurodivergent students thrive. Future of Education Technology: A spotlight on assistive technologies, text-to-speech, and AI as tools to help students with learning differences achieve better outcomes. Inclusion and Advocacy: The Riley Project aims to create safe spaces for individuals to share experiences, thus fostering a community of support and awareness. Resources: The Riley ProjectEducating All Learners AllianceDyslexic Advantage Proust and the Squid Thank you to our sponsor, IXL. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

About the Guest(s):Jani Kozlowski is a renowned early childhood professional, boasting over 30 years of experience. She is an accomplished author and speaker, serving as a technical assistance specialist and consultant. Jani focuses on supporting the development of young children and their families, with expertise in early childhood disability services, learning environments, and social-emotional development. She currently leads initiatives at the Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill. Jani is the author of "Every Child Can Fly: An Early Childhood Educator's Guide to Inclusion" and its family-oriented companion, "Empowering Your Child to Fly."Episode Summary:In this compelling episode of Think Inclusive, host Tim Villegas engages Jani Kozlowski, a notable expert in early childhood inclusion, in a discussion about advocating for inclusive education for young children with disabilities. The episode begins with Jani sharing personal insights on the importance of inclusion for preschool children, emphasizing that early inclusion sets a positive trajectory not only for children with disabilities but also for their peers without disabilities. Her approach to this often daunting prospect for families highlights strategies that aim to demystify special education processes and the legal foundations surrounding inclusion.This episode delves deep into the practical aspects of advocating for and implementing inclusive education practices. Jani discusses her recent adaptation of "Every Child Can Fly" into a version for families, illustrating her dedication to making vital information accessible to parents. Through interviews with 15 families, Jani brings authenticity and emotional depth to the conversation, offering real-world strategies for navigating special education systems. Emphasizing a long-term vision for inclusion, Jani articulates the significance of forging robust partnerships between families and educators, underscoring the myriad benefits of fostering inclusive learning environments.Complete show notes and transcript: https://mcie.org/think-inclusive/unlocking-inclusive-strategies-empower-every-child-to-fly/Key Takeaways:-Early childhood inclusion sets the foundation for a child's future educational trajectory, impacting both those with and without disabilities.-Understanding the legal frameworks and rights surrounding special education is crucial for parents advocating for their children's inclusive education.-Building strong relationships between families and teachers facilitates collaboration and problem-solving, crucial for achieving successful inclusion.-A clearly defined vision for a child's educational journey empowers families and guides school teams in decision-making processes.-Leveraging supportive networks and existing resources, like OSEP-funded parent centers, can enhance advocacy efforts and access to inclusive placements.Resources:Jani's website: https://everychildcanfly.com/Parent Center Hub: https://www.parentcenterhub.org/Forget Me Not Documentary: https://forgetmenotdocumentary.com/CADRE: https://cadreworks.org/Thanks to our sponsor, IXL: https://www.ixl.com/inclusive Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

About the Guest(s):Jen Newton is an Associate Professor at Ohio University with a dedicated career in inclusive education spanning 25 years. Her expertise encompasses anti-racist, anti-ableist education, early childhood inclusion, and inclusive teacher preparation. Beginning her career as an early interventionist and inclusive pre-kindergarten teacher, Dr. Newton now focuses on teacher education, inclusion consulting, and research. She actively contributes to local, regional, and national discussions on advancing inclusive education practices.Episode Summary:In this episode of Think Inclusive, hosted by Tim Villegas, the spotlight is on Dr. Jen Newton's insights into the challenges of preparing educators for including students with diverse learning needs in general education classrooms. With decades of experience in inclusive education, Dr. Newton provides a critical analysis of the current gaps in teacher preparation and the need for an inclusive pedagogical approach.This conversation delves into the systemic limitations that hinder the effectiveness of inclusive practices in education. Tim and Jen outline practical strategies for empowering both general and special education teachers to adapt and modify curricular materials effectively. They argue for comprehensive teacher training focusing on modifications, accommodations, and a deeper understanding of learners with extensive support needs. The dialogue also touches on the political aspects, revealing how educational policies and legislative agendas shape the current state of inclusion in schools. As key legislation remains outdated, the discussion underscores the urgency for updated educational policies that reflect current understandings of disabilities and mental health.Complete show notes + transcript: https://mcie.org/think-inclusive/why-we-need-to-blend-general-and-special-education-training/Key Takeaways:-Understanding the current lack of comprehensive inclusive training provided to general educators and advocating for collaborative teaching practices.-Addressing the political landscape and its influence on inclusive education and teacher preparation frameworks.-The significance of inclusive licenses for teachers, which integrate general and special education training.-How a focus on collaboration between teachers can facilitate effective adaptations to accommodate diverse learning needs.-The impact of federal and state educational policies on practical inclusion efforts in schools.Resources:Jen website: https://www.teachingisintellectual.com/Books Mentioned:"Wolf at the Schoolhouse Door" by Jennifer Berkshire and Jack Schneider"Troublemakers: Lessons in Freedom from Young Children at School" by Carla Shalaby"Demystifying Disability" by Emily LadauPodcast Mentioned: Have You Heard hosted by Jennifer Berkshire and Jack SchneiderThanks to our sponsor, IXL: https://www.ixl.com/inclusive Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

About the Guest(s):Brilly Semenova: Brilly is a passionate advocate for individuals with disabilities, having started her advocacy journey during her middle school years. She is based in Maryland but operates nationally, providing resources and support to families and individuals. Her focus covers education, employment, social skills, and legal guidance for navigating benefits for people with disabilities.Nisha Batra: Nisha is a dedicated Early Childhood Educator and passionate disability advocate. She was recently honored with the King Charles III Award in recognition of her impactful advocacy work. Nisha firmly believes that normalizing differences empowers individuals and fosters a more inclusive and equitable society.Episode Summary:In this enlightening episode of Think Inclusive by Tim Villegas, inclusion advocates Brilly Semenova and Nisha Batra share their profound insights and personal journeys in promoting inclusive practices for individuals with disabilities. Brilli recounts her experiences from initiating mentorship programs in middle school to providing comprehensive resources for families navigating educational and legal systems. Her story emphasizes the importance of inclusivity in fostering supportive environments for individuals with different abilities.Nisha Batra brings a unique perspective with her background in early childhood education and her personal experience with a learning disability. She discusses the critical importance of celebrating diversity within educational settings and normalizing differences among students. By sharing her journey and professional insights, Nisha highlights the potential transformation inclusion can bring about in educational settings, fostering an environment where every student feels supported and valued.Complete show notes + transcript: https://mcie.org/think-inclusive/empowering-inclusion-advocates-share-stories-and-strategies/Key Takeaways:-Brilly Semenova illustrates the need for mentorship and guidance programs for young individuals with disabilities to promote self-advocacy and inclusive environments.-Nisha Batra emphasizes the significance of acknowledging and celebrating diversity in classrooms, advocating for normalization of differences among students.-Both advocates highlight the necessity for educational and societal systems to be readily inclusive, moving towards environments that support diverse learners without needing them to 'be ready' first.-The conversation underscores the challenges and opportunities found within advocacy, highlighting the transformative power inclusion holds at both individual and systemic levels.-Practical examples of advocacy efforts and successful inclusion practices are discussed, showcasing real-world applications.Resources:Helpipedia: https://helpipedia.org/Nisha's Instagram: @TheSwanTransformation: https://www.instagram.com/theswantransformation/Thank you to our sponsor, IXL: ixl.com/inclusive Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

About the Guest(s):Nicole Eredics is a seasoned expert specializing in inclusive education, boasting over 25 years of experience in the field. Armed with degrees in elementary and special education, Nicole began her career as an inclusion teacher in British Columbia, Canada. She is the founder of the Inclusive Class and has been instrumental in implementing inclusive systems in over 150 schools across the United States since 2008. Also an esteemed author, her best-selling book "Inclusion in Action" is a vital resource for educators aiming to foster inclusive educational settings. Currently, Nicole offers her expertise as a national presenter and trainer for the Bureau of Education and Research, as well as an education and ed-tech consultant.Episode Summary:In this engaging episode of Think Inclusive, host Tim Villegas is joined by inclusive education expert Nicole Eredics. Eredics offers valuable insights into fostering inclusive education practices within school systems. The episode kicks off with an exploration of Nicole's rich history in education and her journey from advocating for inclusion in Canada to transforming schools across the United States. As the discussion unfolds, Nicole shares her experiences working with school districts, highlighting the advancements made in personalized instruction and the integration of technology to support diverse student needs. The conversation also delves into the complexities of standardized testing, the role of co-teaching models, and the substantial influence educators have on crafting positive educational experiences for all learners.As the dialogue deepens, Eredics underscores significant changes in education, particularly the growing emphasis on individual student needs and diversity awareness. These changes have sparked an evolution in instructional practices, the use of universal design for learning (UDL), and the availability of resources enhancing teachers' capabilities. However, Nicole also sheds light on the enduring challenges, like the rigidity of standardized systems and the struggles of grading students with varying needs. Offering tactical advice, she encourages educators to begin with small, manageable changes, such as observing their current classroom practices, while leveraging technology and collaboration to enhance their inclusive teaching methods.Complete show notes + transcript: https://mcie.org/think-inclusive/empowering-educators-navigating-inclusive-education-challenges-and-opportunities-with-nicole-eredics/Key Takeaways:-Inclusive education requires a nuanced understanding of personalized instruction and the commitment to supporting diverse learners within the general education classroom.-Recent advancements highlight increased awareness of diversity and personalized instruction among educators, yet challenges like standardized testing and rigid grading systems remain barriers.-Co-teaching and Universal Design for Learning (UDL) are increasingly being embraced as vital components of inclusive educational practices.-Technology, particularly AI, is transforming how educators tackle customized learning needs, offering streamlined solutions for adapting lessons and teaching approaches.-Effective inclusive systems are bolstered by insightful leadership from administrators who understand and value inclusive practices.Resources:Nicole's book: https://amzn.to/3GdExBrVisit Nicole's website: https://www.theinclusiveclass.com/Thanks to our sponsor, IXL: ixl.com/inclusive Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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=Il5zrhoH74ZcYRaaThank you to our sponsor, IXL: https://www.ixl.com/inclusive Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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.orgCall DEE at (724)726-1155Thanks to our sponsor, IXL. https://www.ixl.com/inclusive Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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.

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.

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.

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://bookshop.org/p/books/undoing-ableism-teaching-about-disability-in-k-12-classrooms-susan-baglieri/ Battle Fatigue: Parents, Institutionalized Ableism, and the “Fight” for Inclusive Education: https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/15407969241259365Thank you to our sponsor, IXL: https://www.ixl.com/inclusive Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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.

SummaryIn 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.txtReimagining 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.

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.

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.

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/30b6GuxydPA04S1PD8J94YnDtPwKey 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.

About the Guest(s):Dr. Jen Newton: Associate Professor in Special Education at Ohio University with expertise in strengths-based approaches to families, early childhood inclusion, and socially just educational practices. Dr. Newton has previously taught at James Madison University and Saint Louis University and is a passionate advocate for inclusive education.Eric Garcia: Washington Bureau Chief and Senior Washington Correspondent at the Independent. Eric covers the White House, Congress, and politics, and is also an MSNBC columnist. He's the author of the book "We're Not Broken: Changing the Autism Conversation" and a recipient of the Harriet McBride Johnson Prize for his nonfiction writing on autism.Dr. Carolyn Teigland: CEO of the Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education (MCIE), Dr. Teigland is a seasoned educator dedicated to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion in schools. She has also served as an Associate Superintendent in Cecil County Public Schools, leading transformative inclusive education efforts and providing congressional testimony on the subject.Tim Villegas: Host of the Think Inclusive podcast and a former special education teacher, Tim has been with MCIE since 2020. He advocates for inclusive education and produces two podcasts: Think Inclusive and Inclusion Stories, which explore real-world inclusion and share diverse educational experiences.Episode Summary:Join host Tim Villegas as he navigates a thought-provoking discussion on the future of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) with distinguished experts Dr. Jen Newton, Eric Garcia, and Dr. Carolyn Teigland. This episode provides an unfiltered look at how potential changes and challenges to IDEA could shape the educational landscape amidst shifting political priorities.The conversation opens up critical perspectives on the challenges facing special educators and administrators as a new administration takes the helm. The panelists delve into the implications of possible funding changes, especially the controversial move towards block grants. Eric Garcia brings insight from his political coverage, analyzing the plausibility of dismantling the Department of Education and the priorities of the Trump administration regarding public school reform.The episode explores the necessity for advocacy and civic engagement at both the state and local levels. Jen Newton and Carolyn Teigland emphasize the importance of understanding state policies and the role they play in shaping education funding directed towards inclusive practices. Highlighting the gaps in the current system, the panelists call for collective efforts to rebuild and reform American education, ensuring it addresses the diverse needs of all students, particularly those with disabilities.Transcript: https://otter.ai/u/cIskPwj8p73iR1JbtTHt0Rm8evAKey Takeaways:The potential reauthorization of IDEA under a new administration raises significant concerns, particularly regarding block grants and funding changes.Engaging with state and local education policies is crucial for effective advocacy on behalf of students with disabilities.Potential moves to dismantle the Department of Education face legislative hurdles, but they underscore broader discussions on public school reform.Understanding the nuances of school choice and its implications for marginalized students remains essential for parents and educators.Advocacy and equitable education practices are vital to counteract possible setbacks in inclusive education policies.Complete Show Notes: https://mcie.org/think-inclusive/Thank you to our sponsor, IXL: https://www.ixl.com/inclusive Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

About the Guest(s):Kelley Coleman is an influential advocate and author specializing in parenting children with disabilities. Over a decade into her journey of raising a child with multiple disabilities, Kelley has become a voice of insight and support for many parents navigating similar paths. She recently authored the book, "Everything No One Tells You About Parenting a Disabled Child," where she imparts practical advice on various aspects of managing disabilities, both in daily family life and navigating the education system. Kelley is a champion for inclusivity, grounded in her personal experiences and extensive engagement with parents, educators, and the disabled community.Episode Summary:In this captivating episode of "Think Inclusive," host Tim Villegas interviews Kelley Coleman, offering a heartfelt discussion about parenting a disabled child and striving for inclusive education. Kelley shares insights from her book, "Everything No One Tells You About Parenting a Disabled Child," drawing from her decade-long journey of raising a child with multiple disabilities. Her perspective challenges listeners to rethink societal perceptions of disability and underscores the importance of fostering strong, collaborative relationships between parents and educators.Kelley discusses the power of vision statements in IEP meetings to streamline educational goals for children with disabilities. The episode presents a balanced view, recognizing both the struggles and triumphs associated with advocating for the best educational outcomes for disabled children. The conversation expands to discussing inclusivity in schools, the undercurrent of fear surrounding disability, and strategies for educators to better support inclusive practices. The insights shared in the conversation are aligned with current themes in education and disability advocacy, offering a roadmap for both parents and educators to foster a more inclusive environment.Transcript: https://otter.ai/u/e5WjDGn5-klsWtmOr0C48R8LL6QKey Takeaways:Creating a vision statement for a child with disabilities is crucial for setting clear, achievable educational goals and establishing a unified direction for their learning journey.Establishing ongoing communication between parents and teachers is essential for building trust and fostering a collaborative approach to education and inclusion.Normalizing disability in society reduces fear and stigma, which can lead to more meaningful and supportive interactions between disabled and non-disabled individuals.Teachers require sufficient training and resources to implement effective inclusive practices, which simultaneously benefit students with and without disabilities.The Paralympics exemplifies a successful platform for showcasing the excellence of disabled athletes without resorting to inspiration porn.Resources:Kelley's Website: https://www.kelleycoleman.com/MCIE: https://www.mcie.org/Thanks to our sponsor, IXL: https://ixl.com/inclusiveDonate to MCIE: https://bit.ly/MCIE-Donate Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

About the Guest(s):Alida Miranda-Wolff is an accomplished diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) practitioner. She is a three-time guest on the Think Inclusive podcast, showcasing her expertise in cultivating inclusive cultures. Alida is the founder and CEO of Ethos, a full-service DEIB and employee advocacy firm, serving a multitude of clients worldwide. She is also the host of the podcast "Care Work with Alida Miranda Wolff" and has written two bestselling books with HarperCollins: "Cultures of Belonging: Building Inclusive Organizations that Last" and "The First Time Manager: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion."Episode Summary:In this episode of Think Inclusive, Tim Villegas engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Alida Miranda-Wolff, focusing on creating inclusive environments within educational systems. Alida's seasoned knowledge as a DEIB practitioner provides valuable insights into the necessity of having diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging at the forefront of leadership strategies in schools. This episode is tailored for those in educational leadership, offering tangible actions for fostering inclusivity and belonging among teachers, students, and administrators.The discussion traverses the strategic application of DEIB principles aimed at empowering school leaders and managers, defining the nuanced difference between leadership and management, and addressing potential resistance to inclusive practices in contemporary educational settings. By weaving Alida's experiences and actionable insights into the narrative, the episode creates a robust framework for educational leaders to build a culture of belonging and address the recent controversies around DEIB practices. Filled with enlightening reflections and actionable strategies, the episode is essential listening for anyone involved in organizational leadership or educational management.Transcript: https://otter.ai/u/O2TB1lIc3jb6l2xqhiasZ1NJDbwKey Takeaways:Leaders and managers have distinct roles; understanding the difference is crucial in fostering school inclusivity.Modeling growth-oriented behaviors and offering employees care are essential habits for building inclusive school environments.Challenging conversations and transparency in leadership pave the way for effective inclusivity practices.Understanding and addressing resistance to DEIB initiatives involve acknowledging underlying fears in change and loss of status or autonomy.Achieving true inclusivity in schools means focusing primarily on the needs of students and then accommodating teachers and staff accordingly.Resources:Alida Miranda-Wolff: https://alidamirandawolff.com/Ethos: https://www.ethostalent.com/Alida's books: "Cultures of Belonging: Building Inclusive Organizations that Last" and "The First Time Manager: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion" (available where books are sold)MCIE: https://mcie.org/think-inclusive/alida-miranda-wolff-belonging-leadership/ (find Alida's previous appearances on the podcast here)Thank you to our sponsor, IXL: https://ixl.com/inclusive Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

About the Guest(s):Alex Shevrin Venet: Alex is an educator, consultant, and author known for her work in trauma-informed and equity-centered education. She has authored "Equity-Centered Trauma-Informed Education" and "Becoming an Everyday Change Maker." With a background in therapeutic school settings, Alex now focuses on teacher development, school consulting, and writing. She is dedicated to empowering educators to create inclusive and equitable learning environments.Episode Summary:In this episode of the Think Inclusive podcast, host Tim Villegas welcomes Alex Shevrin Venet to discuss pressing issues in education surrounding inclusive and trauma-informed practices. Tim and Alex delve into the ramifications of exclusionary classroom settings, the role of educators as change makers, and the imperative to place equity at the center of educational approaches. This engaging conversation provides valuable insights for educators seeking to foster inclusive environments.Throughout the discussion, Alex shares her experiences and insights about the challenges and opportunities within the education system. They highlight the systemic issues stemming from segregated special education settings and how educators can empower themselves to become everyday change makers. Alex emphasizes the importance of stepping into one's role within the educational system, acknowledging individual strengths and areas for influence while advocating for systemic change. Her discussion on trauma-informed education suggests a shift away from behaviorism to a more holistic and equity-centered approach.Transcript: https://otter.ai/u/F4rhCJCaeQUg8FBAo0DUMy7FlBgKey Takeaways:Becoming a Change Maker: Educators can create change within their spheres of influence, starting small and building momentum for inclusive education.Equity-Centered Approaches: Alex emphasizes the need to integrate equity into trauma-informed educational practices.Challenges of Behaviorism: The systemic reliance on behaviorist approaches needs reevaluation, with a focus on empowering students rather than just managing behavior.Building Inclusive Communities: Segregated systems often prevent authentic community building; all students benefit when differences are embraced.Strategic Change Advocacy: In politically charged environments, educators need to be strategic about advocating for equity and inclusive practices.Resources:What about the other kids in the room? https://www.unconditionallearning.org/blog/the-other-kids-in-the-roomUnconditional Learning: https://www.unconditionallearning.org/Donate to MCIE: https://bit.ly/MCIE-DonateThank you to our sponsor, IXL: https://www.ixl.com/inclusive Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

About the Guest(s):Alan Courtis is an Argentine experimental musician known for his work with the band Reynols. Founded in 1993, the band is distinctive in the experimental rock scene, especially since its lead singer, Miguel Tomasin, has Down syndrome. Courtis has collaborated broadly in the music industry, contributing significantly to avant-garde and noise music. He continues to challenge conventional boundaries by creating innovative musical experiences and focusing on inclusivity within the music world.Episode Summary:In this episode of Think Inclusive, host Tim Villegas navigates us through a fascinating conversation with Alan Courtis from the groundbreaking Argentine band Reynolds. Broadcasting from Marietta, Georgia, while on a vinyl hunting expedition, Tim introduces us to the profound and inspiring story of Miguel Tomasin, a musician with Down syndrome leading a band renowned for its experimental sounds. Courtis dives into the journey and evolution of Reynols, shedding light on how this unique band rose to prominence and discusses the nuances of creating art that transcends conventional expectations.Focusing on inclusivity and diversity in music, the discussion uncovers the band's philosophy of allowing Miguel to drive their creative pursuits. Despite initial skepticism from critics, Reynols has sustained a remarkable 30-year career by creating music that defies typical categorization, enabling audiences to indulge in an unparalleled auditory experience. Alan highlights the importance of embracing the unpredictability of their music-making process and the artistic value this brings. Listeners are encouraged to not only appreciate but also learn from the inclusivity and innovation championed by Reynols.Transcript: https://otter.ai/u/HEU8KnWUGSpDbnvPY7g20fu_uWcKey Takeaways:Reynols band, led by a musician with Down syndrome, creates experimental rock music that defies conventions and embraces unpredictability.The band values Miguel's unique contributions, emphasizing creativity and innovation gained from letting him guide their musical journey.Inclusive art forms can drive significant cultural change and challenge societal norms surrounding disability.Despite facing criticism, Reynols has sustained a 30-year career due to their commitment to breaking musical barriers.Alan Courtis emphasizes living in the present and leveraging individual talents to enrich artistic expression.Resources:Reynols on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/minecxio/Reynols on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reynols_oficial/New York Times article: https://www.nytimes.com/2022/12/02/world/americas/argentina-miguel-tomasin-drummer.html?unlocked_article_code=1.bU4.V4Mi.IOKr7TTILPry&smid=url-shareReynols “Manorla Acuplemo”: https://youtu.be/XqHzgU9czQM?si=yAMwFLffe3kpJLajThanks to our sponsor, IXL: https://ixl.com/inclusiveMCIE: https://mcie.org/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In episode sixty-one, Alex and Karly introduce the pod to Lauren Melissa! Lauren Melissa Ellzey (she/her), known across social media as @Autienelle, is an autistic self-advocate, author, educator, and activist. Her young adult novels, Boy at the Window, Gimmicks and Glamour, and StreamLine, emphasize the importance of belonging for queer, neurodivergent youth of color. Her work has crossed paths with NeuroClastic, New York University, Reframing Autism, Cripple Media, AbleZine, Think Inclusive, the United Nations, and more. She holds an MS in Library and Information Science and resides in New York City. Lauren Melissa joins us to talk about her book Streamline, her autistic lens and the importance of special interests. Thank you for listening!

About the Guest(s):Alexis Thomason is an accomplished virtual art instructor at the Pearson Georgia Connections Academy. She has a robust background in teaching, having spent 25 years in various educational roles. Initially starting her career in middle school education with certifications in K-12 art and language arts for grades 4 through 8, Alexis transitioned to the virtual teaching sphere following her enriching experience during the COVID-19 pandemic. She is known for her dedication to fostering an inclusive and engaging educational environment that benefits all learners, including those with disabilities.Episode Summary:In this engaging episode of the Think Inclusive podcast, host Tim Villegas explores the realm of virtual education alongside guest Alexis Thomason from the Georgia Connections Academy. This episode dives deep into the possibilities and challenges of providing inclusive education in an entirely virtual setup. With the rapid transition to online schooling during the COVID-19 pandemic, many educators faced the challenge of adapting their teaching methods. Alexis shares her journey from traditional classroom teaching to becoming a virtual art educator and discusses how online education can be a viable and inclusive option for students, especially those with disabilities.As virtual education becomes a more prominent fixture in the educational landscape, Alexis outlines how Pearson Georgia Connections Academy operates as a tuition-free online public school, serving K-12 students. Emphasizing flexible learning and accessibility, Alexis explains how virtual schooling can uniquely support learners with disabilities, allowing for personalized and differentiated instruction. With insights on how virtual environments foster self-driven learning and teaching, Alexis provides a compelling case for educators and parents to consider virtual schooling as a potential avenue for their educational needs.Transcript: https://otter.ai/u/12q3Th8cahLWUnBULlKfYnN34soKey Takeaways:Virtual education can be an inclusive and accommodating environment for students, including those with disabilities, by offering personalized learning options.Pearson Georgia Connections Academy provides a flexible, 100% online schooling option that caters to K-12 students across multiple states.Differentiation in teaching methods is crucial in a virtual setting to cater to diverse learning styles and needs, helping ensure that each student receives the appropriate support.The transition to virtual education offers flexibility not just for students but for educators too, allowing them to find a teaching style that suits their personal needs and professional goals.Students can thrive in a virtual learning environment by receiving individualized support and having access to recorded lessons and flexible learning schedules.Resources:Pearson Connections Academy: https://www.connectionsacademy.com/Thank you to our sponsor, IXL! Learn more: https://www.ixl.com/inclusive Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

About the Guest(s):Jamie Sowers: Jaime is a dedicated special education director focused on teacher retention and hiring. As Clinical Advisory Team Director at BlazerWorks, he aids school districts in recruitment and retention, emphasizing post-secondary outcomes for students with disabilities. With 20 years of experience, Jaime has been a teacher, coordinator, and principal. He holds a Doctor of Education from Wilmington University and a Master of Education from Mansfield University. Jaime is active in professional organizations and serves on two volunteer school boards.Jessica Bowman: Jessica is the co-Principal Investigator of the TIES Center and a researcher with the National Center on Educational Outcomes. She enhances the inclusion of students with significant cognitive disabilities in general education by creating resources and providing technical assistance. Starting as a teacher, she has extensive experience in professional development at the state level. Her research focuses on inclusion in mathematics for these students. Dr. Bowman holds a Ph.D. in Special Education from the University of Utah.Episode Summary:In this enlightening episode of Think Inclusive, hosted by Tim Villegas, we dive deeply into the conversation about the cost and logistics of inclusive education. Jamie Sowers from BlazerWorks joins Tim to debunk myths about the funding required for inclusive practices and to discuss the efficient utilization of school resources. Next, Tim is joined by Jessica Bowman from the University of Minnesota to break down her recent research on separate school placements for students with extensive support needs. This dialogue sheds light on how geographical locale and charter school enrollment influence educational outcomes.Throughout the episode, key topics revolve around optimizing educational resources and innovative solutions to staffing challenges. Jamie Sowers emphasizes that while special education funding has historically fallen short, inclusive education doesn't inherently require more resources; rather, it calls for smarter use of available funds and staff. The discussion with Jessica Bowman highlights her research findings that suggest alarming discrepancies in separate school placements across different states and regions, raising questions about equitable access to education for all students. Their shared insights advocate for a continuous commitment to developing inclusive environments where all students can thrive.Transcript: https://otter.ai/u/ohPZW9go9tpraqmN5c9v5UUYMAQResources:BlazerWorks: https://blazerworks.com/TIES Center: https://tiescenter.org/.Separate School Placement for Students With Extensive Support Needs and the Potential Impact of Locale and Charter School Enrollment: https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/00224669241231546?icid=int.sj-abstract.citing-articles.4Inclusion Stories: https://pod.link/1633672526YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@think_inclusiveThank you to our sponsor, IXL! Learn more: https://ixl.com/inclusive Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

About the Guest(s):Brittni Sammons is a Professional Learning Coordinator with the Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education (MCIE), bringing a wealth of experience from her past roles as a special educator, assistant principal, and inclusive education facilitator. Before joining MCIE, she served the Calvert County Public Schools, where she played a pivotal role in partnership with MCIE to further inclusive practices. Later, she became a supervisor of instructional performance, focusing on culturally responsive instruction. Brittany's dedication is driven by a belief in every student's need to develop a sense of belonging within inclusive educational communities.Episode Summary:In this engaging episode of Think Inclusive, Tim Villegas, joined by his colleague Brittni Sammons, delves into one of the most frequently asked questions in inclusive education: scheduling. The podcast promises a practical exploration of how inclusive education can function effectively within the framework of school scheduling, emphasizing the concept of "natural proportions."The conversation unravels common misconceptions about inclusion, such as the over-reliance on "co-taught" classrooms. Brittni and Tim advocate for spreading resources evenly across classrooms, ensuring students with disabilities are included naturally within the school community. They highlight the importance of understanding students' strengths, services, and the supports needed, discussing strategies like "targeted" co-teaching which allow for dynamic support based on evolving needs. This detailed exploration aims to dispel myths and demonstrate a more efficient, community-integrated model for special education.Transcript: https://otter.ai/u/Xd3227PaT2hlVORApnZR56ghv5E?utm_source=copy_urlKey Takeaways:The principle of "natural proportions" ensures students with disabilities are naturally included in classrooms based on the proportion of students with disabilities in the general population.Effective inclusive education requires strategic and collaborative planning among general and special educators to meet individual student needs.Different models like "co-targeted" and "consultative" relationships offer flexible, collaborative ways to deliver special education services without relying solely on co-taught classrooms.Educators can adapt the inclusion model through phases—grouping students, assigning support roles, and building master schedules tailored to the school's needs.Reflective practices and adaptive measures can lead to more significant educational advances and a stronger sense of community belonging for students.Resources:MCIE: https://mcie.org/resources/Lou Brown on Natural Proportions: https://youtu.be/Cq5TiGbWAK0?si=JPzYoY5us1SXJTzBThank you to our sponsor, IXL. Learn more: https://ixl.com/inclusive Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

About the Guest(s):Aaron Lanou (he/him) is an educational consultant supporting schools and organizations to reach all kids with inclusive, strengths-based practices. Through the lens of Universal Design for Learning, Aaron coaches teachers and others to teach and support autistic students and all kids with a variety of academic, executive functioning, and social support needs. A member of Carol Gray's Team Social Stories, Aaron also provides Social Stories workshops and collaborates with Carol and the team to continually update and refine the Social Stories philosophy and approach. Aaron was previously a special education teacher in the New York City Public Schools and Executive Director of the Nest Program at NYU, helping to lead the nation's largest inclusion program for autistic students.Episode Summary:In this engaging episode of Think Inclusive, host Tim Villegas sits down with inclusive education consultant Aaron Lanou from New York. They dive deep into the current landscape of inclusive education and the challenges faced by educators striving for more inclusive practices in schools. Aaron shares his insights on the necessary methods, mindsets, and structures that need to be in place to truly integrate inclusive practices in educational settings. With over 20 years in the field, his perspective offers a blend of practical advice and philosophical reflections on the state of education.Tim and Aaron also tackle some of the misconceptions surrounding inclusion, such as the belief that it's solely about placing students with disabilities into general education classrooms. They advocate for a more nuanced approach that emphasizes providing the necessary supports to allow every student to succeed. Celebrating the success stories and dissecting the persistent barriers, they urge educators to remain steadfast in their commitment to inclusive education, drawing on resources, supports, and community to fuel the journey towards more inclusive practices. This episode is packed with valuable insights and actionable strategies for educators and advocates at every level.Transcript: https://otter.ai/u/cMJupjKF1K5R5_Xv6F8M4SX8SBgKey Takeaways:Inclusive Education is Not Just Physical Inclusion: It requires supporting diverse needs with appropriate resources and training.Mindset Matters: Mindset, method, and structure are the three pillars of successful inclusive education—known as "The M&Ms."Barriers for Teachers Exist: Educators face obstacles in mindset shifts, lack of resources, and structural constraints.Resourcefulness is Key: Teachers are encouraged to find creative solutions in advocacy and classroom practice.Interdependence and Collaboration: Seeking supportive networks and resources is crucial for educators working in less inclusive environmentResources:Aaron Lanou: https://www.aaronlanou.com/Papi Por Que: https://papi-porque.com/Thank you to our sponsor, IXL! Learn more: MCIE: https://www.mcie.org Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In case you missed it, Simone and Julie are re-releasing their episode from Season 6 with Tim Villegas.  Tim spent 16 years as a special education educator advocating for students with and without disabilities to learn side by side in the general education classroom. He shares his experience, knowledge and a roadmap for inclusive learning for all students.  You can listen to Tim as host of his Think Inclusive podcast Listen to the entire podcast at https://inclusionschool.com/ To reach us, email talktous@inclusionschool.com   Grab resources mentioned in the show at https://inclusionschool.com/resources/  

About the Guest(s):Dr. Andrea Harkins-Brown is the Program Director for Disability Policy and Systems Change and an Assistant Research Scientist at the Center for Technology and Education within Johns Hopkins University School of Education. With a background as a special educator in public schools in Maryland, Dr. Harkins-Brown has extensive experience serving students with autism and significant cognitive disabilities. Her career transitioned from classroom teaching to higher education and research, focusing on leveraging technology to enhance special education services. Her work at Johns Hopkins includes supporting state and local school districts to improve special education implementation and outcomes through innovative research.Episode Summary:In this engaging episode of the Think Inclusive podcast, host Tim Villegas and Dr. Andrea Harkins-Brown of Johns Hopkins University explore how AI can revolutionize individualized education programs (IEPs) by reducing teacher workloads, enhancing procedural compliance, and allowing educators to focus more on teaching. Dr. Harkins-Brown shares insights from her research at the Center for Technology and Education, where her team is exploring how AI can streamline IEP creation, addressing the high attrition rates among special educators due to paperwork burdens. They discuss the potential of AI to analyze data, offer evidence-based recommendations, and generate language for IEPs, while also considering ethical implications, bias mitigation, and the need for rigorous testing before large-scale implementation in education.Transcript: https://otter.ai/u/h77GRXniZr5pkAyRS_7sYmgOXT0Key Takeaways:AI tools promise to alleviate the heavy paperwork burden on special educators, enabling them to focus more on meaningful classroom instruction and student interaction.The effective deployment of AI in IEP development could involve AI making preliminary recommendations or content generation, subject to educator validation and customization.AI has the potential to improve procedural compliance and reduce implicit biases in IEPs by providing objective suggestions and ensuring transparent development processes.Thorough research and evaluation are crucial to understanding AI's effectiveness in producing quality IEPs compared to current methods.Integrating AI in education necessitates ethical programming, addressing biases, and ensuring tools truly benefit teachers and students rather than exacerbating existing issues.Resources:Center for Technology and Education (CTE): https://education.jhu.edu/cte/Andrea Harkins Brown on X: https://twitter.com/andreahparrishAI in Education Webinar: https://www.aiforeducation.io/harnessing-ai-in-special-education-a-four-part-seriesThanks to our sponsor, IXL! Learn more: https://ixl.com/inclusiveMCIE: https://mcie.org Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

About the Guest(s):Erik Carter serves as Executive Director of the Baylor Center for Developmental Disabilities, which aims to promote the thriving of people with disabilities and their families. He joined the Baylor faculty in 2023. His research and writing focus on principle-driven and research-based strategies for promoting full participation, relationships, and valued roles for children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).One strand of his research addresses the intersections of faith and disability. Dr. Carter's work in this area addresses the spiritual lives and flourishing of people with IDD and their families, the practices and postures of inclusive churches, and faith-based partnerships with disability service systems. A second strand explores the pathways to inclusion and belonging for individuals with IDD. He is particularly interested in capturing the reciprocal and lasting benefits that come through friendships and life lived together in community.Episode Summary:In this episode of the Think Inclusive podcast, Tim Villegas welcomes Erik Carter, the esteemed Executive Director of the Baylor Center for Developmental Disabilities, to discuss the intricate topics of disability, inclusion, and belonging. Erik shares updates on his current work at Baylor and the initiatives he is spearheading to promote flourishing within communities, schools, and faith congregations. Erik's transition from Vanderbilt to Baylor signifies his broader focus on community-wide inclusion and ensuring every individual's sense of belonging and purpose.Erik delves into the concept of "flourishing" versus "thriving," defining flourishing as living rich, full, and abundant lives with strong relationships, community connections, and a sense of purpose. In a thought-provoking discussion, Erik outlines ten dimensions of belonging that extend beyond mere inclusion to emphasize the importance of being invited, welcomed, known, accepted, and loved. The conversation highlights the practical, everyday actions that can foster these dimensions of belonging in both educational and faith-based settings, encouraging listeners to re-evaluate and improve their approaches to inclusion and community building.Transcript: https://otter.ai/u/CfJq-Oo4E_1D2ljznGNv0hNFOxQKey Takeaways:Erik Carter's move from Vanderbilt to Baylor emphasizes a broader community focus on inclusion and belonging.The concept of "flourishing" involves more than just good outcomes; it incorporates strong relationships, purpose, and community connections.Erik outlines ten dimensions of belonging: being present, invited, welcomed, known, accepted, supported, heard, befriended, needed, and loved.Belonging extends beyond schools to faith communities, where inclusion must be reimagined to prevent the deep wounding caused by exclusion.Practical steps to foster belonging include noticing who is excluded, reflecting on intentional actions, and transforming both educational and faith institutions to be more inclusive.Resources:Baylor Center for Developmental Disabilities: https://bcdd.soe.baylor.edu/10 Dimensions of Belonging: https://promotingprogress.org/sites/default/files/2022-02/Fostering_Belonging_Handout.pdfThank you to our sponsor, IXL! Learn more: https://ixl.com/inclusiveMCIE: mcie.org Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

About the Guest(s):Danny Whitty is a non-speaking autistic advocate who uses spelling to communicate. He has gained attention for his insights into living as a non-speaker and his advocacy for disability rights. Danny is a co-host of the podcast "All Our Brave Hearts" along with his sister, Tara. Their podcast aims to amplify the voices of non-speakers and advocate for more inclusive practices in education and society.Tara Whitty is Danny's sister and his main communication regulation partner. She plays a crucial role in helping Danny communicate and is an advocate for inclusive education and disability rights. Tara holds a PhD in a field unrelated to speech communication, but she has trained herself to be a practitioner to support Danny in his communication journey. Together, they produce the podcast "All Our Brave Hearts."Episode Summary:In this engaging episode of "Think Inclusive," host Tim Villegas converses with Danny and Tara Whitty, shedding light on the transformative power of alternative communication methods like spelling to communicate. Through a detailed discussion, Danny shares his experiences of living a "shadow of a life" before gaining the ability to communicate via spelling. Tara discusses the crucial role of a communication regulation partner and the struggles associated with hiring one outside the family.Danny and Tara delve into the barriers to full inclusion in schools, highlighting the resistance and skepticism surrounding alternative communication methods such as spelling to communicate. Despite the challenges, Danny's journey stands as a testament to resilience, illustrating the power of presuming competence and the essential human right of communication. The episode serves as a powerful reminder that an inclusive mindset can make a significant difference in the lives of non-speakers.Transcript: https://otter.ai/u/3zwexqa26T51HJx2DWfwAmsyptUKey Takeaways:The introduction of spelling to communicate can drastically improve the quality of life and autonomy for non-speaking individuals.Hiring and training communication regulation partners is challenging but necessary for granting non-speakers more autonomy.There is significant bias and skepticism within educational and professional communities regarding the validity of alternative communication methods.Inclusive education should prioritize presuming competence and providing necessary communication tools to all students, regardless of their initial perceived abilities.Danny and Tara's podcast, "All Our Brave Hearts," aims to foster understanding and acceptance of non-speakers and broader disability rights issues.Resources:All Our Braves Hearts: https://allourbravehearts.substack.com/Danny with Words: https://dannywithwords.com/SPELLERS: https://youtu.be/8h1rcLyznK0?feature=sharedThank you to our sponsor, IXL! Learn more: https://www.ixl.com/inclusiveMCIE: https://www.mcie.org/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

About the Guest(s):Tim Villegas is the Director of Communications for the Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education (MCIE). He is also the founder of Think Inclusive, which is the blog, podcast, and social media handle of MCIE. He has 16 years of experience in public education as a teacher and district support specialist. His focus now is on how media and communications can promote inclusive education for all learners.Episode Summary:Dive into the compelling discussion led by Tim Villegas on the prevalent issue of segregated special education classrooms and the significant need for inclusive education. In this inaugural episode of the 12th season of Think Inclusive, Tim reflects on his experiences as a special education teacher and district support specialist, offering profound insights into why segregated classrooms persist and how we can evolve beyond them. He questions the rationale behind segregated education and champions the cause of inclusive practices for all learners, especially those with complex support needs.Tim dismantles prevalent myths around the safety, specialized support, and individualized attention that segregated classrooms purportedly offer. He also introduces effective strategies and frameworks that underline the benefits of inclusive settings for students' academic and social development. This episode serves as a rich resource for educators, parents, and policymakers committed to fostering equitable and inclusive learning environments.Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/OMLKKTMpHeHKey Takeaways:The Inadequacy of Segregated Classrooms: Segregated special education classrooms often fail to provide the individualized, specialized support they promise, leading to a divided attention on students' needs.The Importance of Inclusive Vision: Effective inclusion requires strong leadership from school principals and district administrators, emphasizing a collaborative approach between general and special education teachers.Natural Proportions: Distributing students with complex support needs across various classrooms in natural proportions can significantly enhance inclusive practices and provide balanced support.Role of School Leadership: School principals play a critical role in shaping inclusive culture and driving systemic change within the education system.Effective Collaboration: Success in inclusive education comes from the joint efforts of general and special education teachers, ensuring that services are delivered effectively and equitably without siloing student needs.Resources:Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education (MCIE)Thank you to our sponsor, IXL! Learn more: https://www.ixl.com/inclusive Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

About the Guest(s):Margo Gross: Margo serves as the Supervisor of Equity for Calvert County Public Schools. Her work focuses on identifying and dismantling barriers to inclusion within educational environments, advocating for equity, and ensuring that all students have equal opportunities to thrive.Lisa Quinn: A former special education teacher, Lisa is now the owner and executive director of Reach Every Voice. Her organization focuses on integrating inclusive educational practices and supports that enhance the learning experiences of students with diverse needs.Jennifer Ayers: Jennifer is an instructional coordinator for special education with Cecil County Public Schools. Her role involves coordinating and implementing inclusive education strategies and supporting educators in providing high-quality education to all students.Jennifer Sommerness: Jen is a researcher at the Ties Center at the University of Minnesota. She specializes in inclusive education practices and collaborates with educators to develop strategies that support the inclusion of all students in general education settings.Episode Summary:In this special live episode of Think Inclusive, host Tim Villegas engages with a distinguished panel about the intricacies and importance of inclusive education. Recorded at the Crown Plaza in Annapolis, the discussion features insights from Margo Gross, Lisa Quinn, Jennifer Ayers, and Jennifer Sommerness, each bringing their extensive experience and expertise in the field.The panelists delve into what it means to be an inclusionist, exploring the roles and responsibilities involved in advocating for inclusive education. Using personal stories and professional experiences, they provide a holistic view of the challenges and triumphs associated with implementing inclusive practices in educational systems. From identifying and removing barriers to actively listening and engaging in meaningful conversations, the episode emphasizes the collaborative effort needed to foster an inclusive environment.Listeners will learn about the practical steps and strategies that can be employed to advocate for and achieve inclusive education. The conversation highlights both the successes and ongoing challenges, providing a nuanced perspective on why inclusion is not just the right thing to do, but an essential practice for educational equity and social justice. The episode concludes with a discussion on how to maintain resilience and motivation in the face of setbacks and the importance of community and support in continuing this vital work.Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/jOZJVcZxL6GKey Takeaways:Definition and Role of an Inclusionist: Understanding the responsibilities and attributes of those who advocate for inclusive practices in education.Importance of Listening: The significance of listening to others' perspectives and experiences in promoting and implementing inclusive education.Personal Stories of Inclusion Benefits: Real-life examples of how inclusive education has positively impacted students and educators.Challenges and Resilience: Strategies for staying motivated and effective in the fight for inclusion, despite facing resistance and setbacks.Collaboration and Continuous Learning: Emphasizing the need for ongoing conversations and efforts to adapt and improve inclusive practices.Resources:MCIE: https://www.mcie.org/Reach Every Voice: https://www.reacheveryvoice.org/TIES Center at University of Minnesota: https://tiescenter.org/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tim Villegas is the Director of Communications for the Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education. He is also the founder of Think Inclusive, which is the blog, podcast, and social media handle of MCIE. He has 16 years of experience in public education as a teacher and district support specialist. His focus now is on how […] The post PMP406: Thinking Inclusive with Tim Villegas appeared first on Principal Matters.

Think Inclusive is off for the summer, but we have feed drops from some of our podcasting friends in the meantime!In this episode of Inclusive Occupations, host Savitha Sundar engages in a compelling conversation with Dr. Diane Ryndak, an esteemed scholar and advocate for inclusive education. Dr. Ryndak discusses her personal journey and the experiences that fueled her commitment to creating inclusive educational environments. The discussion covers the Inclusive Education Roadmap developed by the TIES Center, focusing on sustainable systemic change for students with significant disabilities. Listeners will gain valuable insights into best practices, systemic change strategies, and the importance of context in inclusive education.Transcript: https://otter.ai/u/UALQNmsWcLsPclvZJ4rnpY-c698?This feed drop is Part 1 of 2. Check out Inclusive Occupations wherever you get your podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Think Inclusive is off for the summer, but in the meantime, enjoy this feed drop from our friend Savitha Sundar.Host Savita Sundar, a school-based occupational therapist, welcomes guest Dr. Debbie Taub to discuss the Inclusive Education Roadmap. They delve into the benefits of starting students in general education, the importance of inclusive practices, and strategies to support sustainable systemic change. Dr. Taub shares her extensive experience in education and the impact of inclusivity across school systems. They also explore the future of inclusive education and advocate for necessary changes to achieve greater equity and opportunity for all students.Transcript: https://otter.ai/u/ESXIBxEtmP-J1iqN5nTN4bzfSoAThis feed drop is Part 2 of 2. Check out Inclusive Occupations wherever you get your podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is my chance to introduce you to another podcast. Think Inclusive is hosted by Tim Villegas and produced by the Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education. While this podcast is not specifically about UDL, the ideas shared definitely align with the framework. During this episode of Think Inclusive, Tim talks with DJ Nicholson. She is an experienced educator and advocate for inclusive education. She has a background in special education and has worked with students with disabilities for many years. DJ is passionate about finding innovative ways to support learners with disabilities and believes that technology, including AI, can play a crucial role in creating inclusive learning environments.

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/Mv0TTx788S3qKBPvfhtAvLvw0GgKey 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/PopQueenBakeryMarietta Daily Journal:https://www.mdjonline.com/news/education/a-minimization-sprayberry-graduation-excludes-disabled-students/article_877c8ca8-1f6b-11ef-9c86-9f56b036ce0e.html?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR1Fd0vSy1uksocDF726LtrkPk5XL3n6p4Wv6aqNLAgLwUalhbbEP7Kt62o_aem_2iJcypHHifJb1xCwyUvcdQhttps://www.mdjonline.com/news/education/cobb-superintendent-apologizes-for-graduation-exclusion/article_2b14e6f8-29da-11ef-a166-ab78ef807f2b.html Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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.aspxUDL 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.

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_urlKey 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, LLCTeachers Pay Teachers Store: Rise Educational Advocacy on TPTInstagram: @RiseEdAdvocacyMCIE Summer Insititute 2024: https://secure.givelively.org/event/maryland-coalition-for-inclusive-education-inc/mcie-summer-institute-2024MCIE: https://www.mcie.org/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Think Inclusive is off this week as we prep for the homestretch to season 11. This week, we have a feed drop for you from our friends at AMI. It's called The Pulse. In this episode: Journalists Amy Silverman and Rebecca Montelion discuss ableism, journalism, and intellectual disability. They explore the importance of plain language in news reporting and the need to include the voices of people with intellectual disabilities themselves. The guests share their experiences working on a pilot project that focused on cognitive accessibility in journalism and highlight the lack of scholarly research in this area. They also discuss the challenges of navigating relationships with caregivers and parents when covering stories about people with intellectual disabilities. Transcript: https://otter.ai/u/uyq8j83pDlyeEAYJxrRBljRcwo4Enjoy the feed drop from AMI - The Pulse to learn more about making journalism more inclusive and accessible. We will see you back in our feed next week. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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_2O3I8tLiAsKey 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.

About the Guest(s): Dr. Emily King is a licensed psychologist with a background in school psychology and a passion for supporting neurodivergent individuals. Her professional history includes working as a school psychologist and providing consultation services for educators and parents. Dr. King focuses on understanding and supporting diverse learners' emotional experiences, utilizing her expertise to equip educators with the knowledge and tools to foster inclusive learning environments. She is also an advocate for parent-teacher collaboration, aiming to improve the education system for neurodiverse students.Episode Summary: In this enlightening episode of the Think Inclusive podcast, host Tim Villegas invites Dr. Emily King to delve into the shifting landscape of educational support for behavior in schools. The conversation offers a compelling snapshot of the evolution that has occurred from a deficit framework towards a more inclusive and neurodiversity-affirming approach in classrooms. Vital concepts such as emotional regulation, behavior prevention, and the influence of neuroscience on understanding student behavior underpin the discussion, offering a rich tapestry of insights into modern educational practices.Dr. King shares her personal journey through the field of school psychology, touching on how her own experiences as a parent and educator have shaped her philosophies on student behavior and discipline. With a significant shift towards understanding anxious behaviors and patterns, the episode uncovers strategies educators can utilize to anticipate and mitigate disruptive behaviors through rooted comprehension of each child's unique needs. Listeners will be guided through the nuances of functional behavior assessments and behavior intervention plans, highlighting the importance of adapting to learners' abilities for effective teaching.Transcript: https://otter.ai/u/WwJu-DxoZpu8AwjwPp830QTjd0sKey Takeaways:The transition from a deficit model to a more compassionate, neurodiversity-focused approach has reshaped support for student behavior.Functional behavior assessments and intervention plans need to align with the child's developmental stage for them to be successful.Preventing disruptive behaviors involves understanding the underlying motives and patterns rather than focusing solely on the behaviors themselves.Educators must strive to create classroom environments where students feel safe learning, expressing themselves, and navigating challenges.Embracing inclusive educational practices calls for training programs that prepare teachers to support an increasingly neurodiverse student population.Resources:Dr. Emily King's website: https://www.learnwithdremily.com/Emily's Substack: https://learnwithdremily.substack.com/The optimum context for learning; drawing on neuroscience to inform best practice in the classroom: https://explore.bps.org.uk/content/bpsecp/33/1/75Thanks to DCMP for being our sponsor this week: https://dcmp.org/MCIE Summer Institute: https://secure.givelively.org/event/maryland-coalition-for-inclusive-education-inc/mcie-summer-institute-2024 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

About the Guest(s): Will Parker hosts "Principal Matters: The School Leaders Podcast." With a rich background in education spanning over three decades, Will Parker has established himself as a seasoned educator and an influential voice in school leadership. Having served as a high school administrator for over 13 years and then as an executive director for a state Principals association, Parker boasts an extensive understanding of the challenges and triumphs within educational leadership. In his current role, he dedicates himself full-time to Principal Matters LLC, offering consulting services to principals and leaders across schools in the United States and internationally. His podcast has reached an impressive milestone, boasting 1.4 million downloads and nearly 400 episodes.Episode Summary: In this insightful episode of the Think Inclusive podcast, host Tim Villegas welcomes Will Parker, a seasoned educator and podcaster, to delve into the nuanced world of school leadership and the pressing issues facing principals today. Addressing the current climate in educational leadership, Parker brings to light the arduousness of a principal's role, especially in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic.The conversation begins with Parker highlighting the findings of a survey by the National Association of Secondary School Principals, revealing the staggering stress levels and mental health needs among school leaders. He highlights the complexities of managing safety, inclusivity, and the school environment amidst heightened scrutiny. As the dialogue progresses, they touch on the fundamental importance of inclusion not only for students but also for educators, illustrating how dignity and equitable access in education are central tenets of Parker's ethos. Showcasing real-world experiences, Parker shares poignant narratives reflective of the transformative power of empathetic leadership in schools.Transcript: https://otter.ai/u/K1jQrg_5VWcDKVxWpRWgaQ6Y1RoKey Takeaways:A significant number of school leaders consider career changes due to high-stress levels and confrontations, which sheds light on the current crisis in leadership within the education sector.Inclusion is vital to the fabric of educational environments, emphasizing the human right to education for all children, irrespective of background or ability.Leadership involves a keen understanding of the individuals you serve, requiring differentiation in teaching, disciplinary approaches, and communication.The episode addresses the necessity for educators and leaders to uphold principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion amidst politically charged environments, emphasizing demonstrating unwavering love and support for students.Imaginative thinking and empathetic engagement are foundational strategies for school leaders to support teachers and nurture a successful learning environment, especially regarding inclusion.Resources:Principal Matters with William D. Parker: https://williamdparker.com/NASSP Survey of Principals and Students Reveals the Extent of Challenges Facing Schools: https://www.nassp.org/news/nassp-survey-of-principals-and-students-reveals-the-extent-of-challenges-facing-schools/Thank you to our sponsor, DCMP: https://dcmp.org/MCIE: https://www.mcie.org/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

About the Guest(s): Allie Tasche is an advocate and leader in the field of inclusive education. With over a decade of experience that includes six years as a classroom educator followed by various coaching and administrative leadership roles, Alli has specialized in systems-level practices for educational equity. Her background includes working in summer camps, group homes, classrooms, and school districts, all with a focus on disability justice and inclusion. Allie has also served as a board member of her local Autism Society, Greater Wisconsin, and currently plays a crucial role within the national team of the Autism Society as the leader of national programs for an affiliate network.Episode Summary: This episode of the Think Inclusive podcast features a fascinating conversation with Allie Tasche, an impassioned advocate for inclusive education and a key player at the Autism Society. The episode delves into Allie's personal journey, the significance of inclusion in education, and the Autism Society's effort to empower communities. Tim Villegas, the host, and Allie discuss her formative experiences and dedication to creating an inclusive environment, stemming from her family background and firsthand encounters with disability service fields. Allie highlights key insights on the Autism Society's initiatives and strategies for promoting acceptance over awareness.Transcript: https://otter.ai/u/IVFhGZyI4mI53yBCPUyR74pLyNAKey Takeaways:Inclusive education is deeply personal and vital for Allie Tasche, inspired by her family's history and experiences that sparked a commitment to disability justice.The Autism Society has progressed from an old brand that no longer represented its values to a new interconnected threads logo symbolizing the autism community's diversity and strength.Inclusive practices in schools are crucial for building a foundation for a more inclusive society across various community settings.Educators play an essential role in modeling and implementing inclusive practices beyond the classroom environment, influencing other sectors of the community.The Autism Society's National Programs team, led by Allie, is dedicated to filling community gaps by highlighting intersectionality and creating connections through programs, resources, and services.Resources:The Autism Society: https://autismsociety.org/Eric Carter's Ten Dimensions of Belonging: https://promotingprogress.org/sites/default/files/2022-02/Fostering_Belonging_Handout.pdfShelly Moore's Five P's: https://youtu.be/u7FWSMekshcPaul Gorski's Fix Injustice Not Kids Principle: https://www.ascd.org/books/fix-injustice-not-kidsMCIE: https://www.mcie.org Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

First, I need ya'll to subscribe to the Email Newsletter: Early Access, Podcast Updates, tip & tricks, dadvice, dadhacks and more. ⁠⁠https://ballboyblog.us21.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=6b5ca9545206dd817640157b0&id=143f375068⁠ Summary The conversation explores the importance of inclusive education and the challenges faced in implementing it. Tim Villegas, the director of communications for the Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education, shares his journey from being a teacher to working in communications. He discusses the need for a shift in mindset and culture in schools and the role of leadership in driving inclusive practices. The conversation also highlights the Inclusionary Practices Project in Washington State and the power of podcasts in promoting inclusive education. The conversation covers topics such as the importance of local elections, being present in dad life, breaking the cycle of parenting, investing in relationships, balancing priorities, being rooted in faith, and finding grounding in music. The guest emphasizes the significance of participating in local elections and encourages listeners to vote. He also shares his experiences as a father and the importance of being present and involved in his children's lives. The guest discusses breaking the cycle of parenting by prioritizing family and investing in healthy relationships. He also highlights the role of faith and music in his life as sources of strength and inspiration. Takeaways Inclusive education is essential for creating equal access to education for all students. Leadership plays a crucial role in driving inclusive practices in schools. School boards have the power to influence education policies and practices. Podcasts can be a powerful tool for promoting inclusive education and sharing stories of success. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 03:29 Transition from Education to Communications 10:45 Passion for Inclusive Education 17:37 Challenges in Education and the Need for Inclusion 22:36 The Role of Leadership in Promoting Inclusive Education 29:09 Inclusionary Practices Project in Washington State 37:31 The Influence of School Boards on Education 42:02 Podcasts on Inclusive Education 43:33 Importance of Local Elections 45:00 Being Present in Dad Life 46:58 Breaking the Cycle of Parenting 50:21 Investing in Relationships 52:32 Balancing Priorities 56:23 Rooted in Faith 58:28 Grounded by Music 01:01:37 Spending Quality Time with Family Find more of Tim and the Think Inclusive Podcast on IG @think_incluisve / @therealtimvegas JOON APP Discount code: YNGDAD Link to direct listeners to: ⁠joonapp.io/youngdad⁠ Find all the deals, specials, promos and partners of Young Dad Podcast on our Link.Tree- ⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/ballboyblog --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/youngdadpod/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/youngdadpod/support

About the Guest(s): Savitha Sundar, an Occupational Therpaist and Ph.D. candidate, specializes in inclusive practices for students with Extensive Support Needs. With over 15 years in public schools, she's a champion for inclusive education, leveraging her OT expertise to foster access and participation. At Texas Woman's University, she mentors future OTs and teaches as an adjunct faculty member. Savitha also serves as the Partnerships Officer at Changing Perspectives, promoting social-emotional learning. She also hosts the podcast “Inclusive Occupations,” inspiring the creation of inclusive communities for children and youth with disabilities.Episode Summary: In this episode of Think Inclusive, Savitha and Tim discuss the nuances of including students with extensive support needs in general education. Savitha unpacks her transition from a traditional understanding of educational practices to pioneering inclusive education methodologies. Her commitment to nurturing social contexts that facilitate the engagement and growth of children with disabilities shines through as she retells experiences that reshaped her professional trajectory. Leveraging her background as an occupational therapist, Savitha passionately argues for a system-wide approach, where therapists go beyond addressing motor skills to facilitate comprehensive participation and inclusion within educational settings—making her a vital voice in the call for an educational paradigm shift. Transcript: https://otter.ai/u/WDLWvC8bUiQyl5cXpSDydSh9ag4Key Takeaways:Occupational therapy can play a significant role in inclusive education, especially when focusing on social contexts.True social inclusion cannot be separated from academic inclusion, as interpersonal relationships entail community participation within an educational environment.Participation specialists, a role occupational therapists can embody, actively work against exclusion and for authentic inclusion in education.Utilizing occupational therapists as supplementary services in schools can open pathways for more effective universal design learning and inclusive practices.Hands-on examples demonstrate the potential impact of occupational therapy beyond traditional applications, enhancing engagement for students with extensive support needs in general education.Resources:Inclusive Occupations: https://pod.link/15400741358 Ways Your School Might Be Doing Inclusion Wrong: https://mcie.org/think-inclusive/8-ways-your-school-might-be-doing-inclusion-wrong/Thank you to our sponsor for this episode, the Autism Society: https://autismsociety.org/MCIE: https://www.mcie.org/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

About the Guest(s): Dr. Leah M. Kelley is a storyteller, writer, activist, teacher educator, education consultant, and parent who identifies as neurodivergent and otherwise disabled. She was a K-12 public school teacher for over 25 years and has extensive experience supporting inclusion. Her newly published book, “The Person Who Arrives: Connecting Disability Studies to Educational Practice for Teachers, Parents, and Others,” evolved from her doctoral research, which she completed at Simon Fraser University in British Columbia. She is currently working as an adjunct professor in the faculty of education - teacher education program at UBC (University of British Columbia) and guest lecturing colleges and other programs and organizations such as CASE (The Canadian Association for Supported Employment). Dr. Kelley's work focuses on connecting disability studies in education (DSE) to educational practice, strength-based perspectives for supporting neurodiversity, addressing ableism, inclusive practices and pedagogy, and cultivating advocacy. Episode Summary: In this episode of the Think Inclusive podcast, Leah Kelley joins Tim Villegas for a profound discussion on the intersections of storytelling, education, and disability advocacy. Right from the onset, the conversation delves into Leah's unique approach to writing and her pursuit of inclusivity through narratives. The dialogue transitions into exploring the importance of whose story is being told when discussing disability and how storytelling serves as a potent tool for learning and connection.The episode further delves into Leah's recently published book, which embodies her dedication to inclusion, her disruptive approach to traditional academic formatting, and her belief in the power of bringing diverse voices to the forefront. Touching on topics ranging from relationships being central to learning to questioning stereotypical notions of disability, Leah challenges conventional thought with her ideas of radical acceptance and the continuous process of arrival in educational and personal contexts.Transcript: https://otter.ai/u/TmXEj6c9L3__xIMls4ZJ4c9gVKcKey Takeaways:Storytelling as an Invitational Tool: Leah emphasizes the power of storytelling in altering perspectives and engaging with complex ideas.Whose Story Is It Anyway: The conversation highlights the critical analysis of whose stories are being told, especially in the context of disability.Radical Acceptance and Arrival: Leah explains how radical acceptance of individuals and the concept of continuous arrival are intertwined in educational environments.Disability as Normal: The episode addresses the stigma and language surrounding disability, advocating for acceptance and understanding of disability as a natural human variation.Relational Approach to Education: The exchange reaffirms that nurturing relationships are at the core of inclusion, learning, and advocacy.Resources:Leah Kelley's Book: https://a.co/d/esG2PWKFacebook Group - Parenting Autistic Children with Love and Acceptance: https://www.facebook.com/ParentingAutisticChildrenWithLoveAcceptance30 Days of Autism: https://30daysofautism.blog/MCIE: https://mcie.org/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

About the Guest(s): Sharon M. Draper is an accomplished author and educator, widely recognized for her contribution to young adult literature. Her career as an English teacher spanned over 30 years, engaging with students from sixth to twelfth grade. Draper's literary portfolio includes books that address diverse and compelling topics, with "Out of My Mind" being among her most notable works. She's won awards, including the prestigious Margaret A. Edwards Award for her significant and lasting contribution to writing for teens. With her lifelong devotion to creating profound connections with young readers through her writing, she has touched numerous lives and inspired countless individuals.Episode Summary: In this episode of the Think Inclusive podcast, we are joined by Sharon Draper, an exceptional voice in middle-grade literature whose books have captivated readers around the globe. Draper takes us behind the scenes of her creative process during the conversation, sharing the inspirations and challenges that shape her memorable characters and their stories. The episode begins with a deep dive into Draper's most beloved character, Melody, from the "Out of My Mind" series. The audience is given a unique window into Melody's world, exploring self-acceptance, belonging, and disability representation. Draper outlines her meticulous approach to research, emphasizing the importance of authenticity in crafting a character like Melody, who has cerebral palsy and navigates a myriad of personal and social challenges.We hear about Melody's growth and journey as she searches for acceptance both within herself and in the society around her. The conversation touches on Melody's experiences in summer camp in "Out of My Heart," her friendships, and her quest for inclusion. The episode concludes with an exciting teaser about the upcoming third book in the series, where Melody's adventures will take her out of the country, and Draper's personal stance on the critical issue of book banning.Transcript: https://otter.ai/u/4OjP10FCk_IT0clQqtXndRcQ0PAKey Takeaways:Sharon Draper's long teaching career and journey into writing began with a challenge from a student and led to the publishing of numerous impactful books for young readers.Draper emphasizes the importance of realistic character development, particularly when addressing disabilities in literature.In "Out of My Heart," Melody's character faces new challenges and experiences, such as summer camp, fostering themes of friendship and acceptance.There's an exciting anticipation for the third book in the "Out of My Mind" series, where Melody will continue to break barriers and undertake new adventures.Draper strongly opposes the current trend of book banning and advocates for the freedom to read and access to diverse literature.Sharon M Draper: https://www.sharondraper.com/MCIE: https://www.mcie.org/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

About the Guest(s): Beth Leipholtz is a multifaceted professional and mother, known for her transparent sharing of personal life experiences on social media. She is the author of the children's book, "The ABCs of Inclusion," and previously penned "Hello, Holland," aimed at parents navigating their children's hearing loss. Beth's journey through motherhood, managing her son's deafness, cochlear implants, and use of sign language, forms the crux of her advocacy for inclusion and accessibility. With a significant following on social media platforms, including a presence on TikTok, Beth leverages her story to make lesser-known conditions more familiar to the general public. She is also a website designer, owns a photography business, and is a voice for sobriety, having been alcohol-free for a decade.Episode Summary: In this heartening episode of the Think Inclusive podcast, Tim Villegas welcomes guest Beth Leipholtz to a dialogue that navigates the intertwining paths of personal narrative, maternal advocacy, and the pursuit of inclusive environments. Beth provides a window into her world as the mother of a deaf child equipped with cochlear implants, touching on the role of American Sign Language (ASL) in their lives and the decisions that have shaped their journey. The conversation reveals the nuances of parenting a child with a disability and the delicate balance between sharing one's personal story and maintaining respect for privacy. Beth and Tim explore the handling of educational and communicative accommodations, from the implementation of captioning in public settings to school involvement and support systems. The talk delves into the highs and lows of social media advocacy, the considerations around generating content, and the power of accessibility tools like captioned content. Beth's insights are a testament to the expansive nature of inclusive practices, challenging the audience to reflect on the diversity of lived experiences.Transcript: https://otter.ai/u/bFrMtlaiPVDrta0EGfTTPHEAYCAKey Takeaways:Beth discusses the capabilities and independence afforded by cochlear implants, including the ability to self-regulate hearing.Insights into the differing views within the community regarding cochlear implants and the concept of deafness as an identity or disability.An in-depth look at the transformative role educators and schools play in accommodating and fostering an inclusive environment for children like Cooper.Beth emphasizes the importance of adapting and evolving based on constructive feedback, especially after the release of her children's book.A candid exploration of the challenges and responsibilities involved in sharing personal stories on public platforms for the cause of awareness and inclusion.Resources:Website: https://bethandcoop.com/Think Inclusive: https://mcie.org/think-inclusive/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

About the Guest(s): Lauren Hough Williams is the Executive Director of the Program for Inclusion and Neurodiversity Education, better known as PINE, an online platform that offers training and support to schools committed to building more neuro-inclusive schools. Lauren is an autism and inclusion specialist and began her career as a special educator for the NYC Department of Education before working for over a decade to define, refine, and expand the NYU ASD Nest Support Project. She partners with the neurodivergent community to shift the special education paradigm from deficits to strengths. Lauren is committed to helping school systems build inclusive learning environments for neurodivergent students. Episode Summary: In this episode of Think Inclusive, Lauren delves into her origin story and how a research-focused professional found her calling in New York City's public schools, ultimately leading her to champion an education model embracing inclusion and neurodiversity. We talk about PINE's structured professional development solutions and how the organization's systemic approach enables educators across entire school systems to support neurodiverse students effectively. The conversation underscores the transformative potential of inclusive education when professional development becomes a shared language and responsibility.Transcript: https://otter.ai/u/qersgh3UHl-SNecCh48OlUZa8gKey Takeaways:Inclusion is more than just a program or a place; it's a shared school-wide mindset and communal responsibility for all educators.Scaling inclusive practices require empowering every school staff member to contribute to an inclusive culture, beyond special education classrooms.Professional development in neurodiversity and inclusive practices has not caught up with the diversity of student needs in today's classrooms.Educators, including neurodivergent staff, are valuable assets in fostering inclusive environments when provided with ongoing professional support.The school environment, including sensory stimuli, should be designed with an understanding of neurodivergent experiences for the benefit of all students.Resources:PINE (Program for Inclusion and Neurodiversity Education): https://www.pineprogram.org/Contact Lauren Hough Williams: lauren@pineprogram.orgPINE Virtual Summitt (May 1-3) https://www.pineprogram.org/summit (registration opens in March)MCIE: https://www.mcie.orgThank you to our sponsor for this episode, Bookshare! Learn more at https://www.bookshare.org/. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

About the Guest(s):Dr. Andrew Goff was an educator of children with and without disabilities for twelve years before transferring the knowledge and skills he developed as a teacher to his work as a researcher, author, and college professor. He holds a Bachelor's in child psychology and a Master's in early childhood education/special education from the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities. He earned his doctorate in leadership for educational equity with an emphasis in early childhood special education from the University of Colorado Denver. Episode Summary:In this enriching episode of the Think Inclusive podcast, host Tim Villegas welcomes Andrew Goff, an advocate for inclusive education and an author who reflects deeply on his transformative experiences in the classroom. Goff reveals his insights on why the classroom should be a place of love and growth for all children, regardless of their abilities. He shares a powerful narrative centered around his experience with a student named Javon, illuminating the challenges and triumphs of creating a nurturing learning environment. The discussion delves into the complexities of advocacy within an often rigid education system and the transition to leadership roles that can influence change. The episode is a testament to the profound impact that educators like Goff have on shaping inclusive schools, delivering poignant reflections that will resonate with teachers, administrators, and advocates alike.Transcript: https://otter.ai/u/Y5Z0hE2eYJvHfuoSoUEGn5UZHg8Key Takeaways:Inclusive education benefits all children, those with and without disabilities. Goff underscores the importance of creating a classroom environment where each child is given the opportunity to thrive.Goff's journey to inclusion involved a shift from viewing specialized support as necessary for some students to seeing inclusion as beneficial for everyone. This was particularly evident in the growth and kindness exhibited by children without disabilities.Leadership plays a crucial role in educational advocacy. Goff discusses his move from classroom teaching to instructing future teachers, emphasizing the value of leadership in fostering inclusion.Goff also talks about the tensions between being an educator and an advocate within a system resistant to change, sharing strategies for advocating for inclusion while navigating professional survival.The episode also highlights the importance of compassion and humanity, advocating for a future where all individuals, particularly children, see each other as equals deserving of respect and friendship.Resources:Love is a Classroom (Book by Andrew Goff): https://amzn.to/48fpZJLInclusive Schooling (Website): https://www.inclusiveschooling.com/MCIE: https://mcie.org/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

"We don't need a handful of people doing inclusive education perfectly, we need millions of people doing it imperfectly." - Tim VillegasAccording to the Oxford Dictionary, inclusion is the practice or policy of providing equal access to opportunities and resources for people who might otherwise be excluded or marginalized, such as those who have physical or intellectual disabilities and members of other minority groups. And specifically when it comes to education, inclusion is the act or practice of including students with disabilities with the general student population.And yet, what does true inclusive education look like in a public school setting?In this episode, Tim Villegas, the Director of Communications for the Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education and founder of their podcast and blog, Think Inclusive, joins me to provide a beginning lesson on inclusion.You will learnThe history of the IDEAHow belief in inclusive education does not equate implementing inclusive education practicesThe difference between placement and belonging when talking about inclusive practicesThe importance of storytelling in moving the cultural acceptance of inclusionResources cited: A summary of the evidence on inclusive educationThe relationship between special education placement and high school outcomesAbout Tim Villegas:Tim Villegas is the Director of Communications for the Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education and founder of their podcast and blog, Think Inclusive. He spent 16 years in public education, where he advocated for the full and authentic inclusion of learners with disabilities in general education, even those with more extensive support needs. MCIE: Website: https://www.mcie.org/Email List: https://bit.ly/MCIE-Email-ListFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThinkInclusive/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/think_inclusive/Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/think_inclusiveYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ThinkinclusiveUsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/inclusive-education/Follow Neuroversity on all our social platforms:Neuroversity WebsiteIGFacebookTwitterLinkedInPatreon

Throwback Episode 218: Creating Inclusion For All Learners (w/Tim Villegas - Originally aired 8/1/23) Friends, we're taking the month of August to talk all things Back to School, today we kick off the series with a discussion on implementing inclusion in the classroom. We're joined by Tim Villegas, he's the director of communications for the Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education (MCIE), a nonprofit that seeks to be the catalyst for the meaningful and successful inclusion of all learners in their neighborhood schools. Throughout his 16-year career in education, Tim has advocated for including students with extensive support needs in general education classrooms. He is the founder of Think Inclusive, a podcast for inclusive education, and Inclusive Stories, a narrative podcast series about families and school districts fully committed to inclusive education. Join us as we chat about all things inclusion in our schools: advice for educators, parents, and those in leadership looking to create spaces where everyone belongs. This is an episode packed with resources, be sure to check our show notes for all the links to helpful books, organizations, and films! SHOW NOTES Learn more about MCIE ⁠Website⁠ Follow MCIE on ⁠Facebook ⁠ Follow MCIE on ⁠Instagram ⁠ Follow MCIE on ⁠Twitter ⁠ Follow MCIE on ⁠LinkedIn ⁠ Learn more about ⁠Think Inclusive⁠ Listen to ⁠Inclusion Stories⁠ Learn more about ⁠TASH⁠ Learn more about ⁠The Beyond Access Model⁠ Check out ⁠Including Samuel⁠ Check out ⁠Who Cares About Kelsey?⁠ Check out ⁠Intelligent Lives⁠ Check out ⁠My Disability Roadmap⁠ Check out ⁠Club 21⁠   Books to check out (Educators & Parents): ⁠Leading for All: How to Create Truly Inclusive Excellent Schools⁠ ⁠Reimaging Special Education: Using Inclusion as a Framework to Build Equity and Support All Students⁠ ⁠Unwanted: Fighting to Belong⁠  Check out these episodes:  ⁠10. Inclusion - An Educator's Perspective with Kristin Enriquez Pt. 1⁠ ⁠11. Inclusion - A Parents Perspective with Kristin Enriquez Pt. 2⁠ ⁠132. BTS Pt 3 - What's the impact of inclusion? (ft. Kristin Enriquez)⁠ ⁠39. Back to School w/IEP Experts Vickie Brett & Amanda Selogie⁠ DISCOUNT CODE Friends, grab your narrative shifting gear over on ⁠The Lucky Few Merch Shop⁠ and use code PODCAST for 10% off! HELP US SHIFT THE NARRATIVE Interested in partnering with The Lucky Few Podcast as a sponsor? Email ⁠hello@theluckyfewpodcast.com⁠ for more information! LET'S CHAT Email ⁠hello@theluckyfewpodcast.com⁠ with your questions and Good News for future episodes. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theluckyfewpod/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theluckyfewpod/support

Tim Villegas shares his journey of losing and regaining his faith. He recounts his experiences growing up in a religious family, his involvement in the church, and his evolving perspective on spirituality. The conversation delves into the challenges of reconciling organized religion with personal spirituality and the importance of having open, authentic conversations about faith and life's struggles.Key Takeaways:Questioning and Exploring Faith: Tim discusses how he began questioning his faith in high school, seeking a deeper understanding of the Bible and exploring other religions and worldviews. This journey of questioning ultimately led him to reevaluate his beliefs and find a more personal and inclusive spirituality.Challenging Traditional Views: The conversation highlights the tension between traditional religious teachings and the evolving perspectives of younger generations. We discuss the importance of critically examining religious beliefs and challenging dogmas to create a more inclusive and compassionate approach to spirituality.Finding Community and Connection: Tim shares his experiences of finding a supportive community that embraces open conversations about faith and life's challenges. The episode emphasizes the power of connecting with others who share similar experiences and fostering an environment of understanding and acceptance.Enjoy this thought-provoking episode exploring the complexities of faith, questioning traditional beliefs, and finding a sense of belonging in a changing spiritual landscape.Guest Bio:Tim Villegas is the host of Think Inclusive, co-host of the Trailer Park Podcast, and an educational nonprofit leader. Find him on social media @TheRealTimVegas.Resources:Tim Villegas on TwitterTim Villegas on InstagramThink InclusiveConnect with The Life Shift Podcast:Instagram: www.instagram.com/thelifeshiftpodcastFacebook: www.facebook.com/thelifeshiftpodcastYouTube: The Life Shift PodcastTwitter: www.twitter.com/thelifeshiftpodLinkedIn: The Life Shift PodcastWebsite: www.thelifeshiftpodcast.comGet access to ad-free episodes released two days early and bonus episodes with past guests through Patreon.**https://patreon.com/thelifeshiftpodcastRemember to rate and review the show on Apple Podcasts if you enjoyed this episode. Your feedback is greatly appreciated!Keywords:1. Personal Growth and Accountability2. Inclusion and Acceptance3. Faith and Identity Exploration4. Healing and Letting Go of Guilt and Shame5. Navigating Religion and Spirituality6. Embracing Diversity and Unconditional Love Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Overview:  Today host Lori Boll speaks with Tim Villegas who is the director of communications of MCIE or the Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education, a nonprofit that envisions a society where neighborhood schools welcome all learners and create the foundation for inclusive communities. He is the founder of Think Inclusive, MCIE's blog and podcast. Tim and Lori speak about MCIE and their impact, discuss the three main things that stand in the way of schools becoming more inclusive, and discuss the importance of school leaders promoting inclusion to make it a school-wide initiative. Connect Website  Twitter Instagram Facebook --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/seniapodcast/message

Friends, we're taking the month of August to talk all things Back to School, today we kick off the series with a discussion on implementing inclusion in the classroom. We're joined by Tim Villegas, he's the director of communications for the Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education (MCIE), a nonprofit that seeks to be the catalyst for the meaningful and successful inclusion of all learners in their neighborhood schools. Throughout his 16-year career in education, Tim has advocated for including students with extensive support needs in general education classrooms. He is the founder of Think Inclusive, a podcast for inclusive education, and Inclusive Stories, a narrative podcast series about families and school districts fully committed to inclusive education. Join us as we chat about all things inclusion in our schools: advice for educators, parents, and those in leadership looking to create spaces where everyone belongs. This is an episode packed with resources, be sure to check our show notes for all the links to helpful books, organizations, and films! SHOW NOTES Learn more about MCIE Website Follow MCIE on Facebook  Follow MCIE on Instagram  Follow MCIE on Twitter  Follow MCIE on LinkedIn  Learn more about Think Inclusive Listen to Inclusion Stories Learn more about TASH Learn more about The Beyond Access Model Check out Including Samuel Check out Who Cares About Kelsey? Check out Intelligent Lives Check out My Disability Roadmap Check out Club 21   Books to check out (Educators & Parents): Leading for All: How to Create Truly Inclusive Excellent Schools Reimaging Special Education: Using Inclusion as a Framework to Build Equity and Support All Students Unwanted: Fighting to Belong  Check out these episodes:  10. Inclusion - An Educator's Perspective with Kristin Enriquez Pt. 1 11. Inclusion - A Parents Perspective with Kristin Enriquez Pt. 2 132. BTS Pt 3 - What's the impact of inclusion? (ft. Kristin Enriquez) 39. Back to School w/IEP Experts Vickie Brett & Amanda Selogie DISCOUNT CODE Friends, grab your narrative shifting gear over on The Lucky Few Merch Shop and use code PODCAST for 10% off! HELP US SHIFT THE NARRATIVE Interested in partnering with The Lucky Few Podcast as a sponsor? Email hello@theluckyfewpodcast.com for more information! LET'S CHAT Email hello@theluckyfewpodcast.com with your questions and Good News for future episodes. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theluckyfewpod/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theluckyfewpod/support

About The Guest(s)Carolyn is the CEO of the Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education (MCIE). She previously served as the Associate Superintendent for Cecil County Public Schools and has extensive experience in promoting inclusive education. Carol is one of the founders and former CEO of MCIE, having transitioned to Director of Special Projects in 2023. She has worked closely with school districts in Maryland and other states to promote systems change and school transformation. SummaryIn this episode of Think Inclusive, Tim interviews Carolyn and Carol as they discuss the organization's history and its partnership with school districts since 1990. They highlight the importance of leadership in sustaining inclusive education and share success stories of students who have thrived in inclusive classrooms. The guests also discuss the challenges and trends in the educational landscape, including the focus on equity and the need for universal design for learning. They emphasize the need for comprehensive professional learning and job-embedded coaching to support educators in implementing inclusive practices. The episode concludes with a discussion on how families and educators can advocate for inclusive education and the future plans of MCIE.Otter.ai Transcript: https://otter.ai/u/3JayPOLPEZsUVYeKoBN3brK50j0Key TakeawaysMCIE has been partnering with school districts since 1990 to promote inclusive education and systems change.Leadership is key to sustaining inclusive education and creating a school-wide general education initiative.The success of inclusive education is evident in the positive impact on students' lives and academic outcomes.The focus on equity in education provides an opportunity to include children with disabilities in the conversation.Comprehensive professional learning and job-embedded coaching are essential for implementing universal design for learning.Families can advocate for inclusive education, but the burden should not solely be placed on them.Inclusive education benefits all students and leads to improved academic outcomes.MCIEEmail List: https://bit.ly/MCIE-Email-ListWebsite: https://www.mcie.org/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/inclusionmdInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/inclusionmd/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/inclusive-education/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Looking for conversations about inclusive education and what it looks like in the real world? We've got you covered. Stay tuned to your feeds for new weekly episodes. Season 11 is coming soon. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hi Friends. Tim here with another feed drop for you. This time it's Beyond Awareness: Disability Awareness That Matters, hosted by Diana Pastora Carson. Some of you may remember we had Diana on Think Inclusive in February of 2022 to talk about her journey as an educator advocating for inclusive education and bringing her brother Joaquin home from living in an institution. https://pod.link/583456652/episode/22dbbb5c42a79ab97d8405b316584854Today, I want to share with you a recent episode Diana published with two siblings, Danny and Tara Whitty. Danny spells to communicate and Tara is his communication regulation partner. Danny uses his finger to point to letters on a letter board that Tara holds up for him. And Tara reads out the letters as he points. Danny also, at times, uses his own voice. If you aren't familiar with this kind of communication, I'll share some resources with you after Diana's interview. Enjoy the conversation with Diana, Danny, and Tara. Catch you on the other side. Episode Show Notes + Transcript: https://www.gobeyondawareness.com/podcasts/beyond-awareness-disability-awareness-that-matters/episodes/2147942618*** Thanks to Diana Pastora Carson for sharing her episode of Beyond Awareness with us. If you want more information about spelling to communicate, here are a few resources. It was mentioned in the episode, but check out the International Association for Spelling as Communication: https://i-asc.org/ Also, I interviewed Dr. Dana Johnson, a spelling-to-communicate practitioner, in an edition of the Weeklyish: https://weeklyish.substack.com/p/spelling-to-communicateFinal thing. If you get the chance to see the documentary Spellers, please do it. I recently saw it at a screening near Atlanta and it was phenomenal. There are still in-person events happening in July, so find out if it is showing in your neck of the woods at https://spellersthemovie.com/watch. Thanks for spending some time with us today, and we will be back next week with another episode of Think Inclusive. Have a great week, everyone and remember, Inclusion Always Works! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join Tim Villegas on an enlightening and empowering journey as Think Inclusive explores the world of inclusive education through captivating stories and thought-provoking conversations. This podcast is a platform that amplifies the voices of people with disabilities, their families, and dedicated educators committed to creating truly inclusive environments where everyone can thrive. Tim's engaging interviews and compelling narratives bring to light the transformative impact of inclusion, inspiring parents, teachers, and anyone interested in disability advocacy. Uncover inspiring success stories, engage in challenging discussions, and gain a deeper understanding of what it means to build a more inclusive society that celebrates diversity and empowers every individual to reach their full potential. Prepare to be inspired, informed, and awakened to the power of inclusion as Tim shines a light on the voices that are often left out of the conversation.Episode SponsorFocusrite – http://pcjk.es/vocasterFullCast – https://fullcast.co/Key TakeawaysUncover the journey of Tim, director of communications at the Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education, and the host of Think Inclusive podcast, as he explores and promotes inclusive education through podcasting.Learn how Tim's passion for audio production and desire to learn more about people with disabilities led him to start podcasting, overcoming challenges along the way.Discover Tim's commitment to centering the voices and stories of people with disabilities on Think Inclusive, as he believes they are the true experts on disability.Explore Tim's plans for a new project, a narrative podcast about inclusive education, featuring stories of families with children who have disabilities and interviews with inclusive school districts.Find out how Tim is seeking help and collaboration for his project, inviting anyone interested in listening to episodes, reading scripts, or contributing with music to reach out to him.Connect with Tim and learn about the Trailer Park podcast, co-hosted with friend of the show Arielle Niesenblatt, the community manager at SquadCast, featuring trailers for upcoming podcasts and unexpected connections.Gain insights into Tim's background in special education and behavior therapy, and how it shaped his passion for inclusive education.Discover Tim's experience as a musician and how it influenced his journey in audio production and podcasting.Learn about Tim's structured approach to podcasting and his plans to streamline his process for the next season of Think Inclusive.Tweetable Quotes"So I started Think Inclusive in 2012. I started on my dining room with my MacBook Pro and a Logitech headset and a Skype account. And I had always wanted to podcast. In fact, I studied, I took classes in college. I'm not going to overstate myself on audio production because I was like a radio wannabe. I started really learning about sound and audio production because I was like a musician in bands.""Well, the cost of living is probably my favorite. And it is so lush and green and beautiful. And despite it raining all the time, the air is really clean. So like in LA. You would roll out of bed and not be able to see the mountains. But here, I mean, there are no mountains, but at least it's just blue sky. And also I happen to like the thunderstorms.""I think that I like to script. I script almost everything. Okay, so not during my interviews. Usually I have a list of questions and I've always done that, but I think that it's always been helpful for me to have a list of questions and...

In this bonus episode of Think Inclusive, we're talking about our sponsor, Together Letters, a tool that helps people stay in touch with their friends, family, and communities. Together Letters is a simple, email-based newsletter that lets you share updates with your group members on a regular basis. You can use it to stay up-to-date on what's going on in your friends' lives, share your own news and accomplishments, or just connect with people you care about. Together Letters is a great way to build stronger relationships and create a more inclusive community. And if you want to join the Think Inclusive Together Letters group, go to patreon.com/thinkinclusivepodcast to get started. Learn more: togetherletters.comOtter.ai Transcript: https://otter.ai/u/NWzZ6t5qolFxZfkfBPgqxAf8RcQ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, we bring you an episode from Think Inclusive, a podcast that builds bridges between families, educators, and disability rights advocates to create a shared understanding of inclusive education and what inclusion looks like in the real world. The episode explores what Critical Race Theory is and what advocates for inclusive education need to know about the Anti-CRT movement. You'll hear from individuals with experience and expertise in CRT:King Williams, a filmmaker, and journalist in Atlanta, GAAlida Miranda-Wolff, a professional in the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging sector in Chicago, ILEddie Fergus, a professor at Temple UniversityPete Newlove, a doctoral student at the University of Colorado and current high school English teacher,Referenced in the episode:Cherokee Schools' would-be diversity administrator shares why she stepped down (Cherokee Tribune & Ledger News)Teacher Anti-CRT Bills Coast To Coast: A State By State Guide (Forbes)Plessy v. Ferguson (History.com)Conservative-led school board fires superintendent after allegations of private ultimatum, teacher protest (Washington Post)Gov. Kemp opposes 'Critical Race Theory' in letter to state board of education (11 Alive - Atlanta)State Education Board Passes Resolution On Teaching Race (Georgia Public Broadcasting)Teachers Say Laws Banning Critical Race Theory Are Putting A Chill On Their Lessons (NPR)

The connection between inclusive schools and diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. On this episode of Think Inclusive, I speak with Simone Morris and Julie Kratz, the hosts of the Inclusion School Podcast. Simone and Julie connected over social media and decided to collaborate on a podcast to talk about the connection between inclusive schools and the DEI space. Here's what I cover with Simone and Julie in this episode: 1. Why diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives are important in schools. 2. Some ways to show up and be allies with people who have been historically marginalized. 3. Why it is important to talk about issues of racism, sexism, homophobia, and ableism, with children. Thanks for listening, and if you haven't already, please give us a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.Email List: https://bit.ly/MCIE-Email-ListOtter.ai Transcript: https://otter.ai/u/cr-ZbOzqzCGqkavfuxImphJq4HEPDF Transcript: https://3bd6e695-b492-4878-afa9-f79d8b09e0c4.usrfiles.com/ugd/3bd6e6_a404c6ba277449ce95fe6e5f9e85f354.pdfShow Notes: https://bit.ly/TI-Inclusion-SchoolCover Art Image Description: black background; think inclusive logo in the top left; rainbow-colored waves overlayed with the Inclusion School Podcast cover art; text reads: Julie Kratz & Simone Morris; Inclusion School Podcast; MCIE logo in the bottom rightCreditsThink Inclusive is written, edited, and sound designed by Tim Villegas and is produced by MCIE.Original music by Miles Kredich.Support Think Inclusive by becoming a patron!Thank you to our sponsor, TogetherLetters. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Neurodiversity and podcasting. Two of my very favorite topics. On this episode of Think Inclusive, I speak with Carolyn Kiel, who is an experienced instructional designer of employee training programs. On her podcast Beyond Six Seconds, she features neurodivergent and disabled entrepreneurs, creatives and advocates who shatter misconceptions, break stigma, and showcase the vibrance and diversity of these communities. Here's what I cover with Carolyn Kiel in this episode: 1. The meaning behind the title of her podcast, Beyond Six Seconds, and why she made the leap into podcasting five years ago. 2. What it has been like to be diagnosed with autism later in life. 3. What she hopes educators learn by listening to neurodivergent people. Thanks for listening, and if you haven't already, please give us a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.Email List: https://bit.ly/MCIE-Email-ListOtter.ai Transcript: https://otter.ai/u/vrPTFWRvAmFm2PIt_qvvrSkg5dIPDF Transcript: https://3bd6e695-b492-4878-afa9-f79d8b09e0c4.usrfiles.com/ugd/3bd6e6_1345f1ce878549dd8370b9639d5569da.pdfShow Notes: https://bit.ly/TI-Carolyn-KielCover Art Image Description: black background; think inclusive logo in the top left; rainbow-colored waves overlayed with a headshot of Carolyn Kiel; text reads: Carolyn Kiel; Beyond Six Seconds; MCIE logo in the bottom rightCreditsThink Inclusive is written, edited, and sound designed by Tim Villegas and is produced by MCIE.Original music by Miles Kredich.Support Think Inclusive by becoming a patron!Thank you to our sponsor, TogetherLetters. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For many years, “chingona” was a derogatory term used to describe Latina women who are seen as too aggressive, difficult, or out of control. It's a word that is meant to keep young Latinas in their place while the male version, chignon, is used as a compliment. On this episode of Think Inclusive, I speak with Mexican American activist, scholar, and podcast host Alma Zaragoza-Petty who is helping women everywhere claim their inner chingona – or “badass.” In her new book Chingona: Owning Your Inner Badass for Healing and Justice Zaragoza-Petty shares about the chingona spirit she began to claim within herself and leads us toward the courage required to speak up and speak out against oppressive systems. Here's what I cover with Alma Zaragoza-Petty in this episode: 1. How the term "chingona" has been reclaimed to honor the Latina experience. 2. Uncovering the root causes of intergenerational trauma and pursuing healing. 3. The power of mentors and educators in inspiring under-performing students to pursue college. Thanks for listening, and if you haven't already, please give us a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.Email List: https://bit.ly/MCIE-Email-ListOtter.ai Transcript: https://otter.ai/u/3Ngjns6bImWu0yv58OocZ5nxG0gPDF Transcript: https://3bd6e695-b492-4878-afa9-f79d8b09e0c4.usrfiles.com/ugd/3bd6e6_624c880dd078447bba36e6751588ef51.pdfShow Notes: https://bit.ly/TI-ChingonaCover Art Image Description: black background; think inclusive logo in the top left; rainbow-colored waves overlayed with a headshot of Alma Zaragoza-Petty; text reads: Alma Zaragoza-Petty, Unpacking Intergenerational Trauma and Healing; MCIE logo in the bottom rightCreditsThink Inclusive is written, edited, and sound designed by Tim Villegas and is produced by MCIE.Original music by Miles Kredich.Support Think Inclusive by becoming a patron!Thank you to our sponsor, TogetherLetters. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Pink Shirt Day is a day set aside to bring awareness to bullying. National campaigns and media awareness focus on this topic. Inclusion plays an important role in prevention of bullying. In this episode Lindy shares a short paper written by a teenager who brings to light that we all have different skill sets in life.  END NOTE: If you missed my full Pink Shirt Day episode from 2022, I encourage you to go back and have a listen.  Links to audio and video are below:Video:  https://youtu.be/uny5vPcq2tgAudio: https://www.lindysaudiocafe.com/17-pink-shirt-day-with-lindy/This podcast is not intended to provide any legal, medical or personal advice, and is recorded for fun and entertainment purposes only. Thank you for listening. Positive comments and reviews are always welcome on my website at https://www.lindysaudiocafe.com/reviews/ .Remember to select Subscribe for updated episodes on your podcast app.Join my Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/lindysaudiocafepodcast.

The Trailer Park Podcast is coming soon! This is a pre-trailer designed to get you pre-excited(!) for the show. Discover more from us: Visit our website to submit your podcast  Follow us on Instagram  Follow Arielle  Follow Tim  About the hosts: Arielle Nissenblatt is the founder of EarBuds Podcast Collective, a weekly podcast newsletter and podcast. She is the Community Manager at SquadCast.fm, a remote recording platform. She is a graduate of the Salt Institute of Audio Documentary Studies. Nissenblatt is a podcast marketing expert, having spoken on panels at conferences such as Radiodays Asia, Sounds of New York, Podcast Movement, International Documentary Association's Podcast Day, at USC, Montana Media Lab, American University, and more. She is one of the founders of Podcast Taxonomy, an international effort to categorize roles and credits in the podcast industry. She is the cohost of Sounds Profitable, Adtech Applied,  a show about adtech in the audio space.  Tim Villegas: Throughout his sixteen-year career as a special education teacher, Tim advocated for the inclusion of students with significant disabilities in general education classrooms and systems change in schools and districts. Tim spent thirteen years as a classroom teacher and three years as a district-level program specialist supporting students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), emotional and behavioral needs, and intellectual disabilities. He joined MCIE in 2020 as the Director of Communications to advance the vision that neighborhood schools be the foundation of inclusive communities. He is also the Founder of Think Inclusive, now MCIE's official blog and podcast, which serves to build a bridge between families, educators, and people with disabilities to advocate for inclusive education by publishing news, opinion, and educational articles. Tim earned a bachelor's degree in psychology from Azusa Pacific University, and later a teaching credential for moderate to severe disabilities from California State University Fullerton.

Thinking inclusively is not only a mindset for today's podcast guest; it's his job. Tim Villegas joins me on today's episode to talk about inclusive education. Tim founded a company called Think Inclusive, and it's now the blog for the Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education. Tim and I will chat about what “inclusion” really means, how to get a more inclusive environment, and much, much more!Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/pqJAMMNwyn3Meet the Guest: Tim Villegas is director of communications at MCIE, a nonprofit that envisions a society where neighborhood schools welcome all learners and create the foundation for inclusive communities. He is the founder of Think Inclusive, MCIE's blog and podcast. Throughout his 16-year career as a special education teacher, Tim advocated for the inclusion of students with significant disabilities in general education classrooms and continues his work with MCIE to empower inclusive systems change in schools and districts.Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/inclusionmd Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inclusionmdLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/inclusive-educationTwitter: https://twitter.com/inclusionMDYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@inclusionMDWebsite: https://www.mcie.orgPodcast: https://anchor.fm/think-inclusive 3rd Annual Special Education and Advocacy Conference | January 28, 2023Are you tired of feeling frustrated at the IEP table?! It's back! The 2023 Free Virtual Special Education Conference is on January 28, 2023! If you're on an IEP team, you won't want to miss this fantastic, free conference! Register now here: https://ashleybarlowco.com/conference-2023

For Episode 7, Moises and Jeremiah sit down with Diana Pastora Carson, the keynote speaker for the upcoming El Dorado Charter SELPA "A Time to Thrive" Symposium in Sacramento on Friday, January 27th, 2023. Diana speaks on the topic of inclusion and provides practical tips on how listeners can serve as allies for individuals with disabilities in their fight for equal rights and access. Diana also shares important inclusion resources and provides tips on how listeners can shift from inspiration to action for individuals with disabilities in their fight for equal rights and access.To register for the SELPA's in-person A Time to Thrive Symposium in Sacramento on 1/27/22, visit the link below: https://edcoe.force.com/edcoeevents/s/lt-event?id=a4Q3l000000OCSiEAO  To learn more about Diana's work, please visit the following links: https://www.dianapastoracarson.com/ TED Talk Link:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ruXB3lbiD3U (Podcast) Beyond Awareness: Disability Awareness that Mattershttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-awareness-disability-awareness-that-matters/id1599152885  Additional ResourcesAuthor Paula Kluth (many titles) Disability Visibility by Alice Wong Care Work by Leah Lakshmi Piepzna-SamarasinhaBlack Disabled Art History by Leroy Moore The Pretty One by Keah Brown Being Heumann by Judy Heumann Crip Camp: A Disability Revolution (documentary film) Phoenix Rising (documentary film series) Think Inclusive with Tim Villegas (podcast) 

Happy International Podcast Day Everyone! That's right. There is a day for everything. Even podcasts. And so, today, I'm going to stray just a bit from our regular inclusion programming to give you some podcast recommendations.  I almost said favorite podcasts, but that is not what I really mean because saying you have a favorite podcast is kinda like saying you have a favorite song and the current number of songs I have on my “liked” songs list on Spotify is close to 1,100.  Y'all...it's been quite a month. I had my second root canal in just over a year, and it threw me for a loop. But September has not been all bad.  Here is the good stuff... mostly podcast-related. I started to record interviews for Think Inclusive episodes that will be published in early 2023. Yep. I'm that far ahead of schedule. I've got some great guests lined up so stay tuned for who is dropping by the TI studio very soon. Also, I took my first trip out of state to do field recording for our new podcast series, tentatively called Inclusion Stories. This new series tells the stories of families and school districts who are committed to full and authentic inclusive education. And as long as it is International Podcast Day, here is a 3-minute trailer: MCIE's Audio Documentary Podcast Series Excited? Me too. If you are interested in sponsoring this new podcast series, email me at tvillegas@mcie.org. Speaking of trailers. Arielle Nissenblatt and I are collaborating on a new podcast called The Trailer Park where we share podcast trailers that were never made into full-fledged projects, ones that are looking for funding, and complete podcasts that you need to add to your feed right now. This podcast is in production, and we will have our own trailer for Trailer Park very soon. And now for my podcast picks for this special International Podcast Day edition of The Weeklyish. These will be in alphabetical order... so they are totally not ranked. First up is American Hysteria by Chelsey Weber-Smith. This podcast explores how fantastical thinking has shaped our culture – moral panics, urban legends, hoaxes, crazes, fringe beliefs, and national misunderstandings. One of my favorite episodes is about the Satanic Panic published a few years ago now... but scroll through the episode titles to see what intrigues you. Next is Creative Pep Talk by illustrator Andy J. Pizza. Each week, Andy delivers a piping hot solo cast chocked to the brim with fresh stories, creative tips, tricks, and a side of secret dipping sauce of pep to boot! I'm a sucker for a great podcast theme song, and this one is fantastic. I've always thought that educators are among the most creative people. So, pick an episode and see how you feel afterward. I can't say enough about Everything is Alive, an “unscripted” interview show in which all the subjects are inanimate objects. In each episode, a different thing tells us its life story—and everything it says is true.

Tim Villegas joins Simone and Julie on this episode of the Inclusion School podcast. Tim spent 16 years as a special education educator advocating for students with and without disabilities to learn side by side in the general education classroom. He shares his experience, knowledge and a roadmap for inclusive learning for all students.  You can listen to Tim as host of his Think Inclusive podcast Listen to the entire podcast at https://inclusionschool.com/ To reach us, email talktous@inclusionschool.com   Grab resources mentioned in the show at https://inclusionschool.com/resources/    

For this episode, I talk with Jani Kozlowski, author of the book, Every Child Can Fly: An Early Childhood Educator's Guide to Inclusion. We discuss why inclusion matters in early childhood education programs. And how we can prepare educators to create inclusive learning environments for all learners. Thanks for listening, and if you haven't already, please give us a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. *** Click here for the transcript of this episode. Resources Melissa McCullough | What Inclusive Preschool Services Look Like Every Child Can Fly: An Early Childhood Educator's Guide to Inclusion ECTA Indicators of High-Quality Inclusion Early Childhood Inclusion Videos ECTA video links Early Childhood Recommended Practices Modules STEM Innovations for Inclusion in Early Education (STEMIE) Video Library CONNECT Modules Videos CA Inclusion Video Library IL Understanding Inclusion Modules Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Sign up for updates from MCIE. Credits Think Inclusive is written, edited, and sound designed by Tim Villegas, and is produced by MCIE. Orginal music by Miles Kredich. Riverside.fm was used to record this interview. Want to get started for free? Support Think Inclusive by becoming a patron! *Think Inclusive is listener-supported. We may earn an affiliate commission when you buy through links in the show notes. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

Hi, Y'all! First a big shoutout to all my kids for leveling up this year. I'm now the proud father of a 16, 13, and 10-year-old. The single-digit days are over. Thanks for being great kids. I love being your dad. Oh, and by the way. Welcome to our new subscribers and listeners. Remarkably, we went from 209 downloads for our August 5 edition of the Weeklyish to 700 downloads for our latest episode on August 19. I sincerely appreciate it. If you are wondering who this Tim Villegas guy is, please check out “The Misunderstood Inclusionist,” for a little background info on me and why I'm extremely fortunate to do what I do. So, one of the perks of the job is that I get to read and think about inclusion. When I was a special education classroom teacher, I still did this. But I didn't give myself dedicated time to digest the information.  For this edition of the Weeklyish, I wanted to share two journal articles that I think you'll find interesting and possibly give you hope for a unified educational system. There is another one that I don't think deserves any of your time, so I'm not going to mention it. But some themes are not uncommon in any critique of an “all means all” philosophy, and I have a few things to say about that. First up is an article (from 2020) by Michael Giangreco. It's called “How Can a Student with Severe Disabilities Be in a Fifth Grade Class When He Can't Do Fifth-Grade Level Work?” Misapplying the Least Restrictive Environment. Isn't that a great title? It is from the journal Research and Practice for Persons with Severe Disabilities. Here is the big idea: the concept of Least Restrictive Environment or LRE should facilitate inclusive placement for students with extensive support needs. Instead, LRE often is used as justification for a segregated placement in a special education classroom. Shout out to Charmaine Thaner and her interview with Cheryl Jorgensen about this on her Facebook Live show. How many times have you heard, “well...this student's LRE is an autism classroom.” I would argue that the Least Restrictive Environment is meant as the general education classroom. All other placements are just plain restrictive. Here is an excerpt from the article. It's Giangreco's concluding statement.  The fact that so many students with severe disabilities are being successfully included in general education placements is evidence that it can be done, and begs the question of why it is happening in some schools and not in others. Even in those situations where students with severe disabilities are placed in general education classes, there is undoubtedly much work that remains to be done because placement in general education classes is necessary but not sufficient to be truly included. In the words of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., “The arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice.” The US history of general education class placement of students with severe disabilities has followed this long slow arc toward inclusion and justice. Granted, we still have a long way to go! Whatever steps we can take to continue and speed up the process are important so that more students can benefit from inclusive schooling sooner, rather than later, if at all. I want to reiterate what Giangreco says here: general education placement is necessary but insufficient. Ok. I'll get back to that in a minute. Take a deep breath. Ready for the next one? This article is “An Interview on District and School Transformation: Practical Approaches to Facilitating Sustainable Systemic Change.” And it's from a journal called Inclusive Practices from 2021. If you've been following me for any length of time, you've probably heard me talk about school districts that are right now changing their practices to become more inclusive. Well in Illinois, there is a special education cooperative that is reimagining what education services look like for all learners.  A regional cooperative has a number of districts that they serve in various ways, but historically through special education classrooms and indirect services like professional development. And so, when Dr. Kurt Schneider came to True North, the focus of the cooperative changed to assist with providing instructional supports and services within general education curriculum and classrooms, so learners could be meaningfully included in their home schools and communities. Here is an excerpt from the interview: By the end of the first year with Dr. Schneider, Board members all understood IDEA, the history of legislation, the impact it had on school systems, the ways in which funding had fallen short, and had a deeper understanding of the concept of LRE and its intent. The people at our table began to understand why inclusive education was important, that every student was a general education student and deserves an enviable life, and that community connection was critically important. At MCIE, one thing we talk about a lot is creating a shared understanding of inclusion. And that's exactly what True North has attempted to do. Understanding the What, Why, and How of inclusion is so important. And that is something we (as in MCIE) love to do. Let us know if you are looking for a partner in creating a shared understanding of inclusive education. Ok. Finally. The article that shall not be mentioned. There is a common theme with any criticism of the inclusive education movement. Which you are a part of BTW. So, welcome to the club. Inclusionists get painted as though we want to completely eliminate special education, disability labels, and related services. That's simply not true.  We don't want to get rid of specialized instruction or services. But just because we provide special services doesn't mean it needs to be in a separate or special place! Granted, sometimes labels are useful but not for using language like, “how many autism kids you have in your classroom,” or identifying learners and teacher by their acronyms. And yes, teachers need to be expected to teach all learners, but that doesn't mean we get rid of specialists. General and special education teachers need to collaborate. That means one unified system, not simply eliminating special education teachers or services. As Lee Ann Jung et al. say in their book Your Students, My Students, Our Students: “[Learners] who have disabilities do not have "special needs"; they only have special rights. And any [learner] who has a need, with or without disabilities, may benefit from the expertise of a specialist.” Inclusionists also get criticized for using the phrase “all means all,” which people interpret as meaning we want all learners in general education classrooms one hundred percent of the time no matter what. As I've said before, and most recently a few paragraphs ago, placement is the beginning, but it doesn't mean that a learner is meaningfully included.  For more on that you can read my piece called, What Does Inclusive Education Really Mean? And something that our critics often leave out is that in a unified system, instructional practices will have to change. We can't go on with business as usual and expect that learners with and without disabilities can coexist in the same location without changes to the entire system. But I guess it is easier to paint us with broad strokes than admit that we may have a nuanced view of how inclusive education works in the real world. “All means all” may be a simple mantra but we've actually seen it work. When I say, “all means all,” I'm saying that all learners deserve to be meaningfully included in their neighborhood schools alongside their same-age peers. I think that's one concept everyone can get behind. That's all the reading and thinking we have time for today.  If you have questions or comments email me at tvillegas@mcie.org or go to mcie.org to learn more about how we can partner with you and your school or district. Thanks for your time, everyone. I'll be back in a couple of weeks with another edition of The Weeklyish.  Have a great week! ICYMI Why is inclusion important? Here is what you said. Dr. Ross Greene | Using Collaborative and Proactive Solutions to Support All Learners What Does Truly Meaningful Inclusion Mean to You? Dr. Mona Delahooke | Beyond Behavior Charts and Positive Reinforcement Around the Web Netflix Looks To Increase Disability Representation In Kids' Shows Inside Six Flags' Efforts To Make Its Parks More Inclusive 10 Focus Areas to Evaluate the Effectiveness of UDL in the Classroom All Teachers, All Classrooms, All Hands-on Deck What I'm Reading What I'm Watching The Resort | Official Trailer | Peacock Original Pod Recs Ontario to disabled teen: lose funding or independence (The Matters)  How School Privatization Has Undermined Democracy in New Orleans (Have You Heard)  Womb Wars pt.1 (American Hysteria)  504- Bleep! (99% Invisible)  Im Aufzug mit Prof. Dr. Maren Urner, Neurowissenschaftlerin (Im Aufzug)  Introducing: The Loudest Girl in the World What I'm Listening To The Shins - The Great Divide What's in my Timeline “Someone recently shared a comment from a frustrated person who said “Jordyn makes typing look so easy.” I've been processing this for a few days and here's the problem with statements like these:” via @jordynbzim From the Wayback Machine 3 Things About Teaching and Learning for Students With Disabilities Just Because The Secrets of Nickelodeon's Hidden Temple  ... The Weeklyish is written, edited, and sound designed by Tim Villegas and is a production of MCIE. Our intro stinger is by Miles Kredich. And our outro is by REDProductions. For information about inclusive education visit mcie.org and check out our flagship podcast, Think Inclusive, on your favorite podcast app. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit weeklyish.substack.com

Hi, Y'all! This week, I celebrated my two-year anniversary at MCIE.  That's right. I left my job at a public school district in the Atlanta Metro area to work in the nonprofit sector, and it's been a huge learning curve.  You see, I used to be a special education teacher. That was my role for 16 years. 13 of those were in the classroom, and 3 were in a district support specialist role. And the whole time I was in the special education department of the districts I worked for, there was something that bothered me. Segregated special education classrooms. You probably already know about this, but just in case you don't know, here is a simplified explanation. Public education is split into two systems. General education and special education. They are supposed to work together to meet the needs of all learners but to be honest it rarely happens. Real talk...it is hard to change a system that is set up to separate learners in the first place. There was a law passed in 1975, which had a funny name (PL 94-142) and then after a few years it was called the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. That law made it so that learners with disabilities had a legally protected right to be educated in public schools. Before that law, they were often educated in separate schools or institutions, or if they did go to a regular school, they were not treated that great. But then as learners started attending their neighborhood schools, school leaders didn't necessarily want them there because they thought it would be a distraction or that they were too disabled to learn with everyone else. So, they were put in separate classrooms. And a lot of people thought this was a good idea. But not everyone. As time passed, organizations like MCIE started helping school districts make changes in how they taught all learners. Specifically, how they supported learners with significant disabilities in general education classrooms. And when I mean significant disabilities, I mean learners on the autism spectrum, those with presumed intellectual disabilities, and challenging behavior among others who have been historically excluded. Researchers, school administrators, and teachers all were learning that when school met the needs of all learners in a systematic way rather than by segregating students by disability everyone benefitted. When I entered the field of special education in 2004, the inclusive education movement had already gone through its biggest push in the 1990s. But in my teacher education program, they taught me all about how learners should be together, how general and special education teachers could collaborate to plan for every child in the classroom, and by distributing students with high support needs across a grade level it kept certain classrooms from having more learners with disabilities than other ones. But then when I entered the school system, I realized this is not how schools are run. Cal State Fullerton ruined me! Not really... I love all of you. But they did ruin me in the best way. Because I spent essentially my whole career as an educator trying to change the system from within.  Why are you telling us this Tim? Well, we have some new people who have subscribed to The Weeklyish, and since I'm reflecting on the last two years, I wanted to share my story again. And give you my why. Why is this important to me? You know I've been asked this question a number of times, and the best answer I can give is that I saw a need and something compelled me to devote myself to it. I suppose some people say it is a calling, and I can't disagree. But for whatever reason, the fact that the vast majority of school districts segregate students by disability is to me a grand injustice. And I want to work toward righting that wrong because I do believe it is wrong. And it is not just a belief; we have evidence that it is not the best for kids. And you know what I keep hearing out of the mouths of school leaders that segregate kids? “We do what's best for kids.” Here is what I say. No. You are not doing what is best for kids. You are doing what is the most convenient to sustain an inequitable system. So, it is in that spirit that I wanted to share with you my favorite Weeklyish articles since I started writing this newsletter in January of 2020.  This first one is from February 2020, called On Separate Spaces, and Why They Are and Are Not Needed. Here is the key takeaway. The goal is always 100% inclusive placement with support. But there are very rare instances where a learner may need something else, and though inclusionists don't like to talk about it, it is a reality that I think hurts our credibility when we want to stick our head in the sand and pretend this scenario doesn't exist.  Recently, I had a short Facebook exchange with a former colleague that addressed this.  Generally, if a learner truly needs to be removed, it should only be temporary. There should always be a plan to bring a learner back into the community where they belong. The problem with special education classrooms, as most districts have set them up, is these separate and segregated environments are the settings where they say students with extensive support needs belong. So, on the rare occasion that families (or educators) push for an inclusive placement, the minute things do not go perfectly, skeptics will point to that as an example of inclusion not working. But it can't just be one learner (or even a handful) for it to work. There has to be a commitment by the district to operate differently and have the expectations that all learners belong in a general education classroom. And then...and only then...if a learner needs an alternate setting, it is for a specific reason and only temporary because the classroom where they belong is waiting for them to return. The next one, from January 2021, is called Let's Stop Pretending That We Can't Do Better Than Segregated Special Education Classrooms. Here is an excerpt: Educational research that has been around for decades has shown that inclusive education benefits students with and without disabilities. So why aren't we doing it? It was easy to try to rationalize why things were not changing fast enough when I worked in a system that wasn't inclusive. But now that I am out, and working and talking with educators in school districts that are implementing inclusion the way that it was intended, there is simply no excuse for me not to state the obvious. Let's stop pretending that segregated special education classrooms are the best we can do. I get that some may not be able to wrap their head around what this looks like. But fortunately, there are some excellent examples. All it takes is for a state or district administrator to investigate it for themselves. And finally, from June 2021, my piece called, How to Include Students with Disabilities in General Education in 4 Easy Steps. What you probably don't know is that when I was first getting my blog and podcast Think Inclusive off the ground, I wrote a blog post called, Quit Using the R-Word in 3 Easy Steps (now only available on the Wayback Machine). So, the title is a bit of a throwback.  I like this one because it lays out the steps of moving toward a fully inclusive system. There is more to it of course, and it certainly isn't easy, but it is a start and if there is anything that I want you to do after finishing this edition of The Weeklyish is start. Start anyway you can! I know I'm not the only educator that sees the inherent problem with special education classrooms. This is your sign to do something about it. The first thing you can do is share this message with a friend, colleague, or family member. That's your homework assignment. I still love to give homework.  That's all the recommendations for past articles I have today.  As always, if you ever have questions or comments email me at tvillegas@mcie.org or go to mcie.org to learn more about how we can partner with you and your school or district. Thanks for your time, everyone. I'll be back in a couple of weeks with another edition of The Weeklyish.  Have a great week! ICYMI What Does Truly Meaningful Inclusion Mean to You? Dr. Mona Delahooke | Beyond Behavior Charts and Positive Reinforcement 5 Ways to Get Inclusion Started at Your School Mazey Eddings | Neurodiverse Representation in Books Around the Web How my school gets students to “behave” Rethinking The 3 D's... Rethinking Guardianship: Emma's Story Airlines May Be Required To Accommodate Travelers In Their Wheelchairs Schools Nationwide Expect Special Ed Teacher Shortages This Fall What I'm Reading Underestimated by J. B. Handley and Jamison HandleyWhat I'm Watching Reservation Dogs (FX on Hulu) Trailer HD - Taika Waititi comedy series What's in my Pod Feed467: Plot Twists (The Popcast With Knox and Jamie)  Evan Phillips: Founder Of Pod Peak Studios | From Mountain Climber to Podcast Producer (Clipped)  Podcasts about Work and Work Culture (Feedback with EarBuds)  All Means ALL – A Welcome from Sarolyn (All Means ALL Inclusive Education)  What I'm Listening To Death Cab for Cutie - Here To Forever (Official Music Video) What's in my Timeline Cultures don't change because they're ready. Cultures change because brave people make them ready.  Natalie Vardabasso (@natabasso)  From the Wayback Machine 9 Resources for Creating an Inclusive Classroom This School Year Just Because If my girlfriend actually turned into a worm J.R. Youngblut (@JRYoungblut)  ... The Weeklyish is written, edited, and sound designed by Tim Villegas and is a production of MCIE. Our intro stinger is by Miles Kredich. And our outro is by REDProductions. For information about inclusive education visit mcie.org and check out our flagship podcast, Think Inclusive, on your favorite podcast app. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit weeklyish.substack.com

Hi, Y'all! As I've written about before, school board elections are important. And while we cannot endorse candidates for any public office because we are a nonpartisan organization, there is a candidate running for election in Minnesota that you'll want to know about. Sonya Emerick My name is Sonya Emrick. I am a parent of two disabled kids and I am a disability justice activist, And I'm running for Minneapolis public school board. Tim Villegas So, what inspired you to run for school board?  Sonya Emerick Well, my now six-year-old child has been receiving early childhood special education since he was two through my district in Minneapolis. And we had a really great birth to three educator. When we were doing evaluations for his first IEP one of the tools used was to measure like social, emotional resilience.  I went to give it back to her and I said, you take this, and you can use it but it's not going to give you any information about my kid, my kid is autistic. And this just tells you how far away he from a neurotypical kid And that sparked a conversation where, you know, as an autistic person, raising autistic kids I see developmental trajectories differently. I think that we need disabled people at the table to inform our perspectives and help us develop our solutions to some really big problems. And I think it's needed in my district. And I'm hoping I get the opportunity to provide that service here.  Tim Villegas So as an autistic person and a parent of an autistic child, how do you think that experience would help inform you being on the school board and representing or supporting all students? Sonya Emerick As I have gotten, deeper and deeper into disability justice work and being introduced to the work of people like Talila Lewis and the Sins Invalid collective and Imani Barbarin and Lydia X. Z. Brown, people who are doing such important work at the intersection of race and disability. I have learned so much about how connected racism ableism are. I'm in Minneapolis. And my city, it may not be on the news anymore, but my city is still. Very much reeling and hurting and trying to heal from George Floyd's murder. And it has impacted our entire school district. Our kids are quite traumatized. And when we think about the kids in my district, which is about two-thirds kids of color, about 20% receiving special education services,  I think inclusion touches all of that, right? Like I've said before, inclusion is not, can the wheelchair fit to the door? Inclusion is, are we meaningfully creating places of belonging for every student? Are we making sure the onus to belong in a learning community is never on the student but that we're responsible for creating those places? Tim Villegas So what would be some of your goals if you were elected on the school board? Sonya Emerick I think that every piece of my platform really iterates back to making those spaces for belonging and the specific strategies are very, because I think it takes a lot of different strategies. So, for instance, in my district, we have. Approximately five white students to every one white educator and 55 black students to one black educator. So, part of my platform is, recruiting and retaining educators of color.  Literacy is a big part of my framework. My district did just complete a three year roll out of comprehensive literacy instruction, which is really exciting for me because that's a framework that works so well for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities, who historically have not been provided rigorous evidence-based literacy instruction, I believe very much that we need to expand our restorative justice practices that we use to help keep kids who are struggling in their learning communities supported as opposed to using exclusionary discipline. What would it be like if we taught our kids that every single person in their classroom had to be there in order for us to be us and to learn together in the unique way that we've cultivated. Tim Villegas So, what do you think is the biggest barrier to inclusion in your school district?  Sonya Emerick Focus on behavioral compliance.  Tim Villegas Tell me more about that.  Sonya Emerick Yeah. I think that we have behavior norms that are Eurocentric or informed by whiteness and that are ableist. I think that there is no way that every child can be included if they have to be held to the expectation that they will perform behavior in a way that's not culturally responsive or culturally sustaining I think it's really traumatic and damaging. Tim Villegas In your view, what would be the solution or ease that barrier? Sonya Emerick Why do we say that we enforce behavior compliance? Because for classroom management, because we need safety first and foremost, for all students and all educational staff, and we need spaces that are conducive to learning happening. I think that there's a lot of ways we can accomplish those goals without needing to rely heavily on behavioral compliance. Better instruction, when I talk about literacy and more evidence-based literacy instruction based in the science of reading, creating agreements with students in their classrooms about what they want their classroom culture to look like is a wonderful tool, right? Using those restorative practices towards liberation, understanding that students are going to look a lot of different ways. And it's not a bad thing.  I don't think that students who are engaged and who feel confident about their ability to learn the material and who really feel accepted and a sense of belonging generally have a lot of behavioral issues. I don't think you need to use a lot of compliance strategies under those circumstances.  Tim Villegas What if someone would say, well, you know, there needs to be consequences for behavior. If there's a small group of students being disruptive or refusing to do work there needs to be consequences.  How would you respond to that?  Sonya Emerick Honestly, I would say. Tell me more about why you think that. And I would want to sort of dig in with some curiosity to hear, you know, what, where that is coming from in that, in that adult. Right. And then if I felt like I could be effective at, at helping a frame shift with that person, I would wanna move the conversation towards what do you think those kids might be needing that they're not getting.  I think it's a practice though, right? We can't do an hour of professional development with educators and help them make that shift. Right. That's something that requires practice over a long term and requires support so I think that like one thing that we're talking about in some of the work that, that I'm doing to try to reduce discipline disparities is do teachers need more in person support available throughout their school days for co-regulation with other. What would that look like? What would it look like if you're a teacher and you can feel yourself getting stressed, to be able to have a five-minute check in with adult who's there to help you co provide support for you. And then could you bring that back to your kids? Right?Tim Villegas Sonya, this is the first time I've ever heard that. That's a great idea. I think that. It can naturally happen, but to be purposeful about it. I think that's a great idea.  Anything else before I let you go, that you wanted to share? Sonya Emerick I think that kids learn when they feel safe. And I think that the kids in my district aren't feeling safe right now. If inclusion is happening, then felt safety is happening, right. If there's not a sense of felt safety, is it really inclusion? Are we really getting everyone what they need? For information about the other candidates running for the Minneapolis school board, here is a link to a Minneapolis Public Schools School Board Voter Guide. The primary election takes place on Tuesday, August 9, 2022. As always, if you ever have questions or comments email me at tvillegas@mcie.org or go to mcie.org to learn more about how we can partner with you and your school or district. Thanks for your time, everyone. I'll be back in a couple of weeks with another edition of The Weeklyish.  Have a great week! ICYMI 5 Ways to Get Inclusion Started at Your School Mazey Eddings | Neurodiverse Representation in Books Why I Created My Podcast, Exceeding Expectations Liz Weintraub & Kenneth Kelty | Using Content Creation for Disability Advocacy Around the Web Sexuality and Parenting Supports for People with IDD Massachusetts First in the Nation to Open Colleges to Students with IDD and Autism Mother shares journey advocating for inclusive education Why Vice President Kamala Harris mentioned her blue suit at a disability rights meeting What I'm Reading Miracle and Wonder: Conversations with Paul Simon | Malcolm Gladwell | Official Trailer Via Pushkin.fm. What I'm Watching Severance — Official Trailer | Apple TV+ What's in my Pod Feed Margy's dad was a hoarder (What Was That Like)  “I Was A Stranger and You Welcomed Me” (Revisionist History)  “We are a technology-based school” (Inclusive Schools Spotlight Series)  “This Isn't Just About Abortion”: What the End of Roe Means to You (Death, Sex & Money)   What I'm Listening To The Pointer Sisters - Neutron Dance What's in my Timeline From Crip Theory Bot   From the Wayback Machine Remote Work Brings More Than Silver Linings Just Because Vin Scully was the voice of baseball. Hear some of his greatest calls.  ... The Weeklyish is written, edited, and sound designed by Tim Villegas and is a production of MCIE. Our intro stinger is by Miles Kredich. And our outro is by REDProductions. For information about inclusive education visit mcie.org and check out our flagship podcast, Think Inclusive, on your favorite podcast app. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit weeklyish.substack.com

Hi, Y'all! I love how things come full circle sometimes. For example, in March, my buddy Zeke texted me a link to a Radiolab episode called The Right Stuff. The Right Stuff (ASL Translation) | Radiolab Podcast When I looked up what the episode was about, I was so excited.  Essentially it asks the question: “Who gets to be an astronaut?” And follows a crew of disabled people (called Ambassadors) on a mission to prove that they have what it takes to go to space.  So, in this episode of Radiolab, reporter Andrew Leland joins crew members from Mission AstroAccess to Long Beach, California, where they get on an airplane to take a flight that simulates zero-gravity. It is the kind of flight that NASA uses to train astronauts. And here is a twist, Andrew, Radiolab's reporter, is legally blind himself. Which I thought was brilliant because who better to report this story than someone with a disability? It's a great episode, and I encourage you to listen to it. Here is the full circle part. Sometimes when I don't know what to write about, I'll scroll through my podcast feed. You don't want to know how many podcasts I subscribe to. Way too many to listen to. But this past week, I was feeling a little lost. On the top of my feed was a podcast called How Sound. It's a joint project of Public Radio International (PRX) and Transom - on radio storytelling. Yeah, yeah. Super nerdy. But I love it and always learn something. For this episode of How Sound, host Rob Rosenthal interviewed a reporter from Radiolab. Yep! The same reporter from The Right Stuff episode.  Andrew explained the challenge of recording in zero gravity and how they had to get creative. Not only did Andrew use some fantastic recording techniques, like taping a microphone to his head, but he also talked about the difficulty of figuring out his identity on the flight. Was he a reporter or a member of the flight crew? This concept of identity is something that I think about a lot, especially when it comes to how to represent disability in my writing and our work promoting inclusive schools. Here is one of my favorite quotes from the episode. Andrew is talking about his observations in the lead-up to the flight about how nondisabled people related to disabled people. “You know, it's in that moment...in the very beginning, when the former astronaut says to me, like, oh, so you're obviously one of the Ambassadors and there was a lot more of it, that didn't make it into the story of just like tons of these interactions between the nondisabled people who are there to help and the disabled people. And it's something around how to negotiate unnecessary help and low expectations from people who look at a disabled person and think like, oh, that person is definitely going to need help. And is definitely not here, just like in the normal capacity that everybody else is here.” So how does this relate to inclusive education? I think there is some truth to be uncovered here in Andrew's reflections about this flight. Disabled people aren't “supposed” to be training to fly to space. And I'm sure some nondisabled people, have no idea what disabled people can or can't do. So, when the astronaut looks at Andrew, with all the outward signs of being Blind, they automatically assume he is one of the Ambassadors.  Isn't this exactly what we do in schools? When we see a student with autism or Down syndrome or a learner with multiple disabilities? Someone will inevitably say, “What are they doing here?” “What are they going to get out of it?” And so, the ableist attitudes continue for the Ambassadors, “what are they going to get out of training to go to space?” As much as we can, as educators, we need to fight against low expectations. And listening to Andrew's reflections just confirms it for me. When I heard the episode of How Sound I texted my buddy, Zeke. Isn't it great when things come full circle?  Make sure to check out Radiolab and How Sound in your favorite podcast player. As always, if you ever have questions or comments email at tvillegas@mcie.org or go to mcie.org to learn more about how we can partner with you and your school or district. Thanks for your time, everyone. I'll be back in a couple of weeks with another edition of The Weeklyish.  Have a great week! ICYMI Why I Created My Podcast, Exceeding Expectations Liz Weintraub & Kenneth Kelty | Using Content Creation for Disability Advocacy Inclusive Language is Not Enough 10 Ways to Flex Your Social Media Advocacy Skills Around the Web The unexpected star of NASA's Webb images — the alt text descriptions OPINION: If you really want more equitable schools, you must first ask some questions “All Are Welcome Here” Our Journey Toward Inclusion at Rockwell Elementary New Guidance Helps Schools Support Students with Disabilities and Avoid Discriminatory Use of Discipline What I'm Reading From the Institute on Community Integration on Facebook. Impact is the Institute on Community Integration's flagship publication. Published three times per year, the magazine contains strategies, research, and success stories in specific focus areas related to persons with intellectual, developmental, and other disabilities. Impact provides useful information to various professionals, including educators, community service providers, policymakers, and advocates, as well as people with disabilities and their families. The online version and your first print copy is free. Subscribe now. What I'm Watching Only Murders in the Building Season 2 | Trailer | Hulu What's in my Pod Feed When Will Met Grace (Revisionist History)  Teaching Truth to Power (Intersectionality Matters!)  EduTip 15: Set aside time to set norms. (Cult of Pedagogy)  Eugenics w. Eric Michael Garcia (You're Wrong About)  What I'm Listening To AWOLNATION - Passion (Official Video) What's in my Timeline From Early Choices From the Wayback Machine Pause and Consider: Ableism and Autism Just Because The Godmother Of Drumming Plays “Down With The Sickness” …The Weeklyish is written, edited, and sound designed by Tim Villegas and is a production of MCIE. Our intro stinger is by Miles Kredich. And our outro is by REDProductions. For information about inclusive education visit mcie.org and check out our flagship podcast, Think Inclusive, on your favorite podcast app. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit weeklyish.substack.com

In this episode, you will hear a conversation between Cobb Collaborative Executive Director, Irene Barton, and Tim Villegas, Editor-in-Chief at Think Inclusive. Tim and Irene discuss the value of inclusion in schools and more.  For additional show notes, including links, please visit our website - cobbcollaborative.org/podcast

Hi, Y'all! My friends, Cheryl and Thomas (who are superb podcasters BTW), are taking over the Think Inclusive feed for a few minutes today to tell you about a special survey project they are doing. With support from the Disability Visibility Project, Cheryl Green and Thomas Reid are gathering information about disabled podcasters and podcasts focused on disability and accessibility (or “disability podcasts” for short). They will use this information to develop an online listing of podcasts and resource for disabled podcasters to find each other and find audiences. Awesome right? Here is the link if you are interested in taking the survey. Here is a transcript of the promo from Cheryl and Thomas. Thanks for listening, and we will catch you next week in the feed with another episode of Think Inclusive. - Tim

Welcome back to a new season of Think Inclusive! For the first episode of our tenth season, we speak with Liz Weintraub and Kenneth Kelty, both fantastic content creators and disability advocates. Liz is the host of Tuesdays with Liz: Disability Policy for All, a YouTube show where she breaks down policy so everyone can understand it. Kenneth is the host of Exceeding Expectations with Kenneth Kelty, a podcast where he shares the stories of trailblazers and leaders surrounding disability advocacy. We talk about the motivation behind creating their shows, some of their favorite moments while recording interviews, and what they hope their audience learns. Thanks for listening, and if you haven't already, please give us a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. *** Click here for a transcript of this episode. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Sign up for updates from MCIE. Credits Think Inclusive is written, edited, and sound designed by Tim Villegas, and is produced by MCIE. Orginal music by Miles Kredich. Support Think Inclusive by becoming a patron!

On this episode of The Weeklyish, Tim reflects on 10 years of blogging and podcasting at Think Inclusive. Click here for the text version of The Weeklyish. Notes Evolve & Effect, LLC PEAK Parent Center 2021 Annual Report to Congress on the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) Credits The Weeklyish is a production of MCIE. Support MCIE's communications efforts by becoming a patron of The Think Inclusive Podcast or by your donation.

Too often, people view leaders as those who are out front and in charge – they think in terms of power. But real leaders are those who have the ability to effect change in the lives of others. They are those who create a collaborative culture where everyone is supported, included, and set up to succeed. Join Russ Ewell's conversation with educator and founder of Think Inclusive Tim Villegas as they discuss the necessity and importance of inclusion not just for those with disabilities, but for everyone.Tim Villegas is director of communications at Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education, a nonprofit that envisions a society where neighborhood schools welcome all learners and create the foundation for inclusive communities. Throughout his 16-year career as a special education teacher, Tim advocated for the inclusion of students with significant disabilities in general education classrooms and continues his work with MCIE to empower inclusive systems to change in schools and districts. He studied at Azusa Pacific University then California State University, Fullerton. He is the founder of Think Inclusive and the host of the Think Inclusive Podcast.Resources:The Biggest Barriers to Inclusive Education by Tim VillegasEasterseals study on the impact of Covid-19 on People with Disabilities“When you are accustomed to privilege, equality feels like oppression.” - AnonymousThe 5 Levels of Inclusion articleThe 5 Levels of Inclusion podcastThe Beyond Access Model: Promoting Membership, Participation, and Learning for Students with Disabilities in the General Education ClassroomErik Carter and “belonging”

We are focusing today on one of our favorite topics: inclusion. Our guest shares how he is working with districts across the country to bring more inclusion, along with the most common misconception most educators have about inclusivity. Join us to learn more! Tim Villegas is the Director of Communications for the Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education (MCIE), the founder of Think Inclusive, and the host of the Think Inclusive podcast.    Show Highlights: How MCIE began 30 years ago and continues as a non-profit today, working with students, families, and education departments around the country Why restructuring and reimagining is the key to inclusion–not hiring more staff How inclusivity CAN meet the special needs of students Why it's a false assumption that students can't make progress on goals and objectives in a general education classroom What Tim has noticed about a renewed focus on educational equity Why districts are using grant money to hire organizations like MCIE for help with inclusive practices Why the MCIE approach is a multi-year program that doesn't bring change overnight but takes a long-term view of change (Tim shares an example of how it works to bring more inclusion.)  How Tim's podcast, Think Inclusive, began as a Twitter feed and has been going strong for ten years! Links/Resources: Thank you for listening!  Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday. If you enjoyed this episode and believe in our message, then please help us get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show in Apple Podcasts, Stitcher Radio, or Google Play. It helps other listeners find this show. Be sure to connect with us and reach out with any questions/concerns: Facebook

Diana Pastora Carson is the host of the Beyond Awareness Podcast. Her TedTalk, "Walking with Joaquin," chronicles her family's journey to bring home her brother after living in an institution for 15 years. She joins us on Think Inclusive to talk about her journey as an educator who advocated for inclusive education, what it's like now that Joaquin has been home for close to ten years, why she started the Beyond Awareness podcast. Books Beyond Awareness: Bringing Disability into Diversity Work in K-12 Schools & Communities Ed Roberts: Champion of Disability Rights This episode's transcript can be found here. Take our podcast listener survey: bit.ly/TIPodcastSurvey. Visit Think Inclusive for more information about inclusive education. Have a question or comment? Reach us at podcast@thinkinclusive.us. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Credits This podcast is a production of MCIE. Support the podcast and become a patron of the Think Inclusive Podcast!

Happy Holidays! To finish off 2021, we are featuring four interviews. One that you haven't heard yet, Lou Brown, and three that you might have caught in our feed if you've been listening for a while: Katie Novak, Alfie Kohn, Cheryl Jorgensen. The first is a previously unpublished clip from my 2019 interview with the co-founder of TASH, the late Lou Brown. I always meant to revisit this interview and I'm so glad I did for this episode. Next up is my interview with universal design for learning expert, Katie Novak. We talk about how ineffective traditional assessments are because they are not universally designed, even though the most recent education law says they should be. My interview with Alfie Kohn, author of the book punished by rewards, was our most listened to episode of 2021. And the clip you are about to hear is probably one of the reasons why. Alfie, I mean, Mr. Kohn, lays out his argument for why educators should steer clear from using any extrinsic reward system in their classroom. And finally, I wanted to share my interview with Cheryl Jorgensen, author of many books on the topic of inclusive education. This clip is from 2014 and it is important to me because it shows my growth in an area that I'm rather ashamed it took me so long to realize: the parallel between the civil rights and disability rights movement and how they are inseparable. Thanks for your time and attention! See you in 2022! This episode's transcript can be found here. Take our podcast listener survey: bit.ly/TIPodcastSurvey. Visit Think Inclusive for more information about inclusive education. Have a question or comment? Reach us at podcast@thinkinclusive.us. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Credits This podcast is a production of MCIE. Support the podcast and become a patron of the Think Inclusive Podcast!

Teacher burnout is closing down schools. What is a “smile file?” And can it be used as a tool for rejuvenation? This edition of The Weeklyish talks about a strategy to help teachers remember why they wanted to become an educator, called a smile file. Click here for a text version of The Weeklyish. Click here for a transcript. For more, visit Think Inclusive or MCIE.

This week's guest is the director of communications for the MCIE and host of the Think Inclusive Podcast, Tim Villegas.This episode features reviews of the recent Severin release of the backwoods psycho film Midnight (1982), the atmosphere rich horror film Honeydew (2021) and the Christmas catastrophe that is Home Sweet Home Alone (2021).The topic Tim picked was Top 5 Characters with Disabilities.You can listen to the Think Inclusive podcast here and can follow Tim on Twitter here.If you want more of the Force Five Podcast:Click here to follow on Twitter: https://twitter.com/forcefivepodClick here to follow on Instagram: https://instagram.com/forcefivepodcastClick here to follow on Letterboxd: https://www.letterboxd.com/forcefive

Tim Villegas, B.A.Director of Communications at Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education (MCIE) Tim Villegas joined MCIE's communications team in 2020, implementing MCIE's communications and marketing plan, and leading MCIE communications through blogs, podcasts, social media, webinars, and product development. Throughout his prior sixteen-year career as a special education teacher, Tim advocated for the inclusion of learners with significant disabilities in general education classrooms and systems change in schools and districts; and spent three years as a district-level program specialist supporting learners with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), emotional and behavioral needs, and intellectual disabilities. He founded Think Inclusive, now MCIE's official blog. In this episode of Beyond Awareness: Disability Awareness That Matters, Tim Villegas discusses his transformation from a staunch self-contained, special education classroom teacher to an "inclusionist." He provides some recommendations for teacher support, and the value of spreading our stories of inclusion. Links Mentioned in Show Email Tim: tvillegas@mcie.org Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education (MCIE) Think Inclusive Blog & Podcast Julie Causton - The Inclusion Podcast Shelley Moore Video Jenna Rufo & Julie Causton - Reimagining Special Education Jennifer Kurth & Megan Gross- The Inclusion Toolbox Emily Ladau - Demystifying Disability: What to Know, What to Say, and How to Be an Ally Stay Connected with Diana Diana's Website Free Resource - 5 Keys to Going Beyond Awareness Beyond Awareness: Bringing Disability into Diversity in K-12 Schools & Communities - Diana's Book Ed Roberts: Champion of Disability Rights - Diana's Children's Book "Beyond Awareness" Digital Course Diana's TEDx Talk Beyond Awareness Facebook Page Diana on Instagram Credits and Image Description Intro and outro music courtesy of Emmanuel Castro. Podcast cover photo by Rachel Schlesinger Photography. Podcast cover image description: Black and white photograph of Diana, a Spanish-American woman with long, wavy, brown hair. She is wearing a flowy, white blouse and smiles at camera as she leans against wooden building. Photo is colorfully framed with gold and orange rays of seeming sunshine on top half, and with solid sage green color on bottom half. Text reads "Beyond Awareness: Disability Awareness That Matters, Diana Pastora Carson, M.Ed."

Hi, Y'all! Look, I know there are a lot of organizations competing for your attention on #GivingTuesday. So I'm going to make this message short and give you three reasons why I think you should support the Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education and help us reach our goal of raising $5,000 today! Number One. MCIE is partnering with school systems (right now) around the country to implement inclusive education that lasts. Students with significant disabilities are being included in general education classrooms (sometimes for the first time) and finally feel like they belong like the student in Calvert County, Maryland, who spent the vast majority of his schooling in “life skills classes” and is now in his home high school taking regular classes with his peers. Even teachers see the benefits of inclusive education with their very eyes. Like the teachers in Delaware who implemented the Self-Determined Learning Model of Instruction and saw students make and achieve meaningful goals for their lives. Please help us keep the momentum going by donating today! Number Two. We believe that amplifying disabled people's voices is vital to changing people's mindsets. This year we committed to pay disabled writers to tell us their stories, and we are just getting started. Ben, a nonspeaking autistic activist, writes, “It is a common misconception that if you can't talk, then you can't learn and you don't know anything.” Rasheera, a disability justice activist, writes that it is time to “reframe what special education looks like and continue to build a framework that addresses disability in the educational setting from a model that fully submerges the disability experience into the mainstream educational space.” Donate to MCIE today so we can continue to pay and amplify disabled voices! Number Three. Inclusive education has a public relations problem. And frankly, I'm tired of it. We have the research that says it works. We have the models around the country that are being implemented. We have the stories of families and educators whose lives have been impacted. But what we need is a communication campaign. And all of that costs money. It is pricey to produce media. But fortunately, we have you. We have big plans to produce more podcasts, videos, articles, newsletters, and even things we haven't thought of yet to spread the word that inclusive education benefits all students. Please donate to MCIE today so we can keep the communication channels open. We can't do this without it. You are a vital part of the work we do every day. Thanks for your time and attention. DONATE: https://secure.qgiv.com/for/bvp2tw Tim Villegas Director of Communications for MCIE Found of Think Inclusive

When Dr. Katie Novak was a student early in life, she did what was required by her teachers, handing in her work on time and following rules and expectations set by the school, but she never genuinely developed a deep love of learning. She didn't feel that she really had what it took to be a great student, but all that changed when a teacher that she had truly believed in her capabilities and pushed for Katie to be moved into advanced classes in high school. This genuinely changed the trajectory Katie's life and she learned to believe in herself and she began to develop the habits and skills needed to thrive academically. This led Katie on a path that would have her eventually become a teacher herself wanting to reach all of her students and help them to find success in their own unique ways. Katie would journey into educational leadership and ultimately become the Assistant Superintendent of Schools in Massachusetts. She would go on to earn a doctorate in curriculum and teaching, and publish 8 books. She now designs and presents workshops both nationally and internationally focusing on the implementation of inclusive practices, Universal Design for Learning (UDL), multi-tiered systems of support, and universally designed leadership. In today's episode you will hear Katie talk about what Universal Design for Learning is and how it can be implemented successfully in schools. She shares many examples of what UDL looks like and what educational leaders need to think about when considering this framework and how it might be embedded within their school in authentic ways. Hope you find some valuable takeaways from this discussion with Katie. About Katie: Katie Novak, Ed.D., is an internationally renowned education consultant, author, professor at UPenn, and a former Assistant Superintendent of Schools in Massachusetts. Dr. Novak is the author of the best-selling book, UDL Now! A Teacher's Guide to Applying Universal Design for Learning in Today's Classrooms. Her book, Innovate Inside the Box, with George Couros, explores how to create innovative and purposeful learning opportunities for students within the constraints of educational systems. Let Them Thrive was endorsed by the PACER Foundation. Two additional publications, of which she is a co-author, have been endorsed by leading professors in the field of education and state departments of education. UDL in the Cloud was endorsed by the Executive Director of The Initiative on Learning and Teaching at MIT while Mitchell Chester, the late Commissioner of the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), endorsed Universally Designed Leadership.Novak's work has been highlighted in many publications including Edutopia, Language Magazine, NAESP Principal, ADDitude Magazine, Commonwealth Magazine, The Inclusion Lab, Think Inclusive, School news, the Huffington Post, Principal Leadership, District Administrator, ASCD Education Update, and School Administrator.Connect With Katie: Twitter: https://twitter.com/KatieNovakUDLWebsite: https://www.novakeducation.com/UDL Guidelines: https://udlguidelines.cast.org/Opening music written and performed by New York-based musician Scott Ferrare. You can find his work at: https://scottferrare.hearnow.comSpecial thanks to Bronx band Conversing with Oceans & Alex Bondarev for creating the podcast intro music.https://www.conversingwithoceans.com/

In the wake of 2020's movements for Black Lives and exposed racial disparities in working-class deaths during the COVID-19 pandemic, educational institutions are grappling on a massive level with their role in either reproducing or disrupting entrenched systems of exploitative power. While individual agency in enacting inclusive practices can be limited by these massive, intersecting forces, educators also wield tremendous influence over the forces within the learning environments they create for all students—particularly those who have been historically marginalized in society and schools alike. In Antiracism and Universal Design for Learning: Building Expressways to Learning Success (CAST Professional Publishing, 2020), Andratesha Fritzgerald pairs Universal Design for Learning (UDL)—a framework for embedding options in the methods, materials, assessments and instructional goals that anticipate inevitable learner variability in the classroom—with antiracism, to support educators in effectively honoring the brilliance of Black and Brown children. Drawing vivid portraits of classroom instruction, Fritzgerald shows how teachers committed to antiracist environments can open new roads of communication, engagement, and skill-building so that students feel honored and loved. Andratesha Fritzgerald, EdS, brings draws on nearly two decades of experience as a teacher, curriculum specialist, administrator and director in urban schools to synthesize these two schools of thought/action through this book. She has been published in What Really Works with Universal Design for Learning (Corwin Press), and on Think Inclusive's blog. Currently, Fritzgerald serves as Director of Teaching, Learning and Innovation for the East Cleveland, Ohio City School Districts, and is the founder of Building Blocks of Brilliance. Christina Anderson Bosch is a doctoral student in the College of Education at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. She reads widely in inclusive education scholarship, comparative special education research, and Universal Design for Learning practices to advance intellectual clarity and abolitionist imaginings about the school-prison nexus. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/african-american-studies

Do you want to help us shift the Down Syndrome narrative in a super practical and very simple way? Then this is the episode for you! We talk a lot about how doctors deliver a Down Syndrome diagnosis on this podcast, but we've never discussed doctors and diagnoses and DS with actual medical researchers! Meg Wilkes and Stephanie Meredith are literally shifting the diagnosis narrative through their research. Meg is pursuing a masters degree in genetic counseling at the University of South Carolina and her thesis is on: ‘Redefining the Essential Informational Needs of Parents Receiving a Diagnosis of Down Syndrome.' Stephanie is the medical outreach director at the University of Kentucky who is overseeing Meg's research, and her 19-year-old son has Down Syndrome! Thankfully, this dynamic medical duo knows that a newborn with DS has a lot more than health issues and doctors appointments ahead of them, and that's why they've created a survey for all of you! Parents of children with Down Syndrome, you're invited to tell Meg all about your diagnosis experience: what you needed to know, what you did not need to know, and what you wish you knew! Take the 10-15 minute survey, tell a friend (or 10), and help us redefine the Down Syndrome diagnosis. It's time to bridge the gap between the matter-of-fact-scary-medical stuff that the doctors warn you about, and the wonderful-life-giving-hopeful stuff that social media advocates promise! So join us for and our fabulous guests as we chat about the research that will challenge doctors to rethink the Down Syndrome diagnosis. Then, share your thoughts by taking Meg's survey! __ SHOW LINKS Survey for Parents Survey for Genetic Counselors Stephanie is the author of the materials on lettercase.org as well as the co-author of the books on downsyndromepregnancy.org. Stephanie is also a contributer to Amy Julia Becker's blog, you can read her post here. And most recently, she wrote for Think Inclusive. SHOW SPONSOR: PRIDE SOCKS Pride Socks empowers wearers to be proud of who they are! They also collaborate with Ruby's Rainbow to help send individuals w/Down Syndrome to college! That's right, a great product with a great goal! Visit https://pridesocks.com/ and use code: theluckyfew at checkout for 15% off your purchase! --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/theluckyfewpod/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/theluckyfewpod/support