Think Inclusive

Join Tim Villegas in this episode of the Think Inclusive Podcast as he sits down with John Spencer, a distinguished professor, speaker, and author. Broadcasting from Marietta, Georgia, Tim explores with John the profound impact of student engagement and the maker mindset in education, highlighting ways to empower ALL students, including those with disabilities, through innovative teaching practices.In this engaging conversation, John Spencer shares his rich journey from teaching middle school to shaping future educators at the university level. He delves into his books "Empower" and "Launch," particularly focusing on the design thinking process, its application in K-12 education, and how it transforms the classroom into a dynamic learning environment. John addresses common concerns educators face, such as managing a classroom with diverse needs, balancing curriculum requirements, and overcoming the traditional fixation on compliance. Emphasizing the importance of creativity and student agency, he provides valuable insights and inspirational stories of success that span his teaching career.Complete show notes and transcript: https://mcie.org/think-inclusive/john-spencer-student-engagement/

In this episode of the Think Inclusive Podcast, Tim Villegas interviews Arielle Hobbs, the founder of The Lion League. They discuss the importance of inclusion in schools and how The Lion League is working to create a more inclusive environment for students with disabilities. Arielle shares her personal experience of fighting for her son's rights and how it led her to start The Lion League. She explains the unique approach of the organization, which focuses on teaching students about inclusion and disability to foster natural friendships and understanding. Arielle also discusses the different ways schools can implement The Lion League's curriculum and the impact it can have on students.Complete show notes and transcript: https://mcie.org/think-inclusive/the-lion-league-changing-how-schools-build-inclusion/

In this episode of the Think Inclusive podcast, Tim Villegas interviews Emily Ladau and Kyle Khachadurian, the co-hosts of the Accessible Stall podcast. They discuss their journey in starting the podcast and their perspectives on disability inclusion and education. Emily shares her experience of attending a mainstream public school, while Kyle attended a school specifically for disabled individuals. They explore the pros and cons of self-contained special education classrooms and the importance of finding a balance between inclusion and meeting individual needs. The conversation delves into the complexities of inclusive education and the challenges faced by the disability community.Complete show notes and transcript: https://mcie.org/think-inclusive/the-power-of-inclusion-a-conversation-with-emily-ladau-and-kyle-khachadurian/

In this episode of the Think Inclusive podcast, host Tim Villegas interviews Julia Bascom, the Executive Director of the Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN). Julia discusses the work of ASAN, which is a national grassroots organization run by and for autistic individuals. She emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy and the need for autistic voices to be included in discussions about autism. Julia also highlights the difference between autism awareness and autism acceptance, advocating for a shift towards acceptance and inclusion. The conversation touches on topics such as recovery from autism, inclusive education, and the future Julia envisions for autistic individuals.Complete show notes and transcript: https://mcie.org/think-inclusive/autistic-self-advocacy-network-shifting-from-awareness-to-acceptance/

In this episode of the Think Inclusive, host Tim Villegas interviews Audri Gomez and Aja McKee, educators with experience in the classroom and teacher training. They discuss the Disability Studies program at Chapman University and its emphasis on disability as a social construct. The guests explain how disability studies challenges the medical model of disability and focuses on the strengths and needs of individuals with disabilities. They also discuss the history of the disability rights movement and the importance of inclusive practices in education.The second part of the episode features an interview with educator and author Re Marzullo. She discusses her book "Sped" and its sequel "Sped 2," which follow the story of Jack Parker, an eighth-grader with dyslexia navigating the complexities of being in special education. Marzullo shares her inspiration for writing the books and how they have changed her perspective on special education. She also discusses the positive response she has received from both general education and special education students.Complete show notes and transcript: https://mcie.org/think-inclusive/preparing-teachers-for-special-education-insights-from-educators-and-authors/

In this episode, Tim Villegas interviews Debbie Taub, an expert in the field of special education alternate assessment. They discuss the concept of alternate assessment and its purpose in measuring the progress of students with significant cognitive disabilities. Debbie shares her insights on how alternate assessment can be a gateway to more inclusive schools and the importance of assessing all students. She also provides resources and strategies for modifying grade-level curriculum to meet the needs of students with significant disabilities.Complete show notes and transcript: https://mcie.org/think-inclusive/understanding-alternate-assessment-with-debbie-taub/

In this episode, host Tim Villegas interviews Dr. Cheryl Jorgensen, an expert in inclusive education. They discuss the slow progress of inclusive education in the United States and the barriers that prevent its widespread implementation. Dr. Jorgensen highlights the existence of two separate education systems, general education, and special education, which perpetuate the idea that students with disabilities need something different. She also addresses the issue of the least restrictive environment principle and its impact on placement decisions for students with disabilities. The conversation delves into the parallels between the civil rights movement and the disability rights movement, emphasizing the need for societal change and a shift in attitudes towards disability. Dr. Jorgensen shares insights on the Common Core State Standards and its potential impact on students with disabilities. Overall, the episode explores the challenges and possibilities of inclusive education and offers valuable perspectives on how to promote change in the education system.Complete show notes and transcript: https://mcie.org/think-inclusive/the-slow-progress-of-inclusive-education-in-the-us-with-cheryl-jorgensen/

In this episode, Tim Villegas interviews Russ Ewell, the CEO of Digital Scribbler and the founder of E Soccer. Russ shares the story of how E Soccer came to be, starting as a small soccer program for his own children with special needs and growing into a nationally recognized inclusive soccer program. He discusses the importance of community and the impact that sports programs can have on the lives of individuals with disabilities. Russ also talks about the founding of Hope Technology School, a full inclusion school that provides a supportive and inclusive environment for students of all abilities. Throughout the conversation, Russ emphasizes the power of inclusion and the need for a shift in attitudes and training to create truly inclusive spaces.Complete show notes and transcript: https://mcie.org/think-inclusive/russ-ewell-creating-inclusive-soccer-and-hope-technology-school/

In this episode, Dr. Julie Causton discusses the necessary steps for schools to become more inclusive. She shares insights from her research project, Schools of Promise, which focused on transforming schools to be more inclusive. Dr. Causton emphasizes the importance of professional development for teachers and the need to reimagine the service delivery model in school districts. She also highlights the role of the law in promoting inclusive education and shares examples of successful inclusive schools. The conversation explores strategies for addressing challenging behavior and the misconception that inclusion is not academically appropriate for all students. Dr. Causton provides practical ideas and resources for creating inclusive classrooms and offers guidance for parents advocating for inclusive education.Complete show notes and transcript: https://mcie.org/think-inclusive/dr-julie-causton-discusses-the-steps-schools-must-take-to-become-more-inclusive/

In this episode, host Tim Villegas interviews Dan Habib about his latest film, "Who Cares About Kelsey." They discuss the importance of positive behavioral interventions and supports (PBIS) in schools, the challenges faced by students with hidden disabilities, and the need for leadership and systems change. Dan shares insights from his experiences filming Kelsey's story and highlights the transformative power of inclusive education. The conversation also touches on the upcoming broadcast of the film on public television and the impact it can have on raising awareness and promoting change.Complete show notes and transcript: https://mcie.org/think-inclusive/filmmaker-dan-habib-discusses-the-importance-of-positive-behavior-support-in-schools/