Think Inclusive

About the Guest(s):Kayla Coburn is an inclusive education advocate and former special education teacher, known for her transformative work in promoting inclusive practices within schools. Having taught in both inclusive and segregated classrooms, Kayla brings firsthand experience to her consultancy, "Inclusion Starts Now." She is also a children's book author with titles focusing on inclusion and diversity, aiming to educate young minds on these crucial themes. Her creative efforts extend to her podcast, also titled "Inclusion Starts Now," where she engages in meaningful discussions about educational practices.Episode Summary:In this engaging episode of the Think Inclusive Podcast, host Tim Villegas welcomes Kayla Coburn from "Inclusion Starts Now" for a rich dialogue on promoting inclusive education practices. Both Tim and Kayla share their experiences as former special education teachers and discuss the complexities of working within school systems resistant to change. The conversation delves into practical strategies for fostering inclusive environments, even when structural obstacles exist. Tim and Kayla explore the nuances and challenges of expanding inclusive practices in school districts that still perpetuate special education classrooms and programs. They address the metaphor of "planting seeds" as critical to pushing forward the boundaries of what inclusive practices can achieve, especially in historically non-inclusive settings. The episode highlights the importance of relationship-building and persistence in advocating for systemic change within education.Transcript: https://otter.ai/u/QgahJWww2zvGk4a-Ix7GmHfWQ3YKey Takeaways:Building trust and relationships with colleagues is essential for fostering an inclusive educational environment.Educators should not feel shame for using methods such as "reverse inclusion" but should continue to work towards more authentic inclusion for all learners.Persistence and continued advocacy are vital for driving systemic change in school districts.Inclusive education benefits everyone—students with and without disabilities—by creating a more enriched learning environment.Innovative leadership and grassroots efforts can effectively pave the way for broader inclusive practices in education.Resources:Inclusion Starts Now: https://www.inclusionstartsnow.com/Inclusion Starts Now Podcast: https://pod.link/1732870059Books by Kayla: https://www.inclusionstartsnow.com/shopThank you to our sponsor, IXL. Learn more at https://ixl.com/inclusiveMCIE: https://mcie.org/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

About the Guest(s):Liz Zogby is a dedicated advocate in the special education and disability space based in Baltimore City. She is the co-chair of the Maryland Down Syndrome Advocacy Coalition (MDAC) and the Special Education Policy and Advocacy Project. Liz also co-chairs the special education workgroup with the state superintendent under the Maryland State Department of Education. Her advocacy efforts are deeply personal, inspired by her daughter Hope, who has Down syndrome.Steven Davis is a policy advocate focused on special education reform. He resides in California, has a background in mathematics, and is known for his analytical approach to education data. Steven is dedicated to improving local policy advocacy infrastructures in his community. He founded Disability Almanac and actively engages in discussions and actions to enhance educational inclusivity for children with disabilities.Episode Summary:Join Tim Villegas on the Think Inclusive Podcast as he hosts Liz Zogby and Steven Davis to explore the crucial intersection of data and special education advocacy. Both guests bring a wealth of knowledge and personal experience as parents of children with disabilities, which fuels their passion and dedication to inclusive education practices.In this compelling episode, Liz and Steven share their journeys into the world of special education advocacy, underscored by a deep dive into the use of data to inform and drive policy changes. Liz discusses her initiatives in Maryland and how understanding and leveraging data can shift legislative perspectives. Steven provides a critical look at the alarming statistics surrounding inclusion rates in California, emphasizing the need for high expectations and proper resource allocation. Together, they highlight the importance of combining both data and personal stories to make a significant impact on educational reform.Transcript: https://otter.ai/u/FFx3Ms0th62yMOHjGYBECmtcgPYKey Takeaways:The Role of Data in Advocacy: How Liz and Steven use data on inclusion rates to inform and drive policy changes.Systemic Challenges: Steven's insights into California's dismal inclusion statistics and his efforts to build better local advocacy infrastructures.Personal and Statistical Storytelling: The importance of merging personal stories with data for effective advocacy.Actionable Strategies for Educators: Recommendations for educators on understanding and utilizing data to support inclusive practices.Parent Empowerment: Encouragement for parents to use their expertise about their children in IEP meetings and advocacy.Resources:National Council of Disability PDF: https://www.ncd.gov/assets/uploads/docs/ncd-segregation-swd-508.pdfHow to Find a School District’s LRE %: https://mcie.org/think-inclusive/how-to-find-a-school-districts-least-restrictive-environment-percentage/Thank you to our sponsor, IXL: Learn more at https://ixl.com/inclusiveMCIE: https://www.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.

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."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.Complete show notes and transcript: https://mcie.org/think-inclusive/the-call-for-access-to-spelling-for-nonspeakers-in-schools-with-danny-and-tara-whitty/

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. Complete show notes and transcript: https://mcie.org/think-inclusive/the-harsh-realities-of-segregated-classrooms/

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.Complete show notes and transcript: https://mcie.org/think-inclusive/inclusionists-discuss-strategies-and-stories-in-education-panel/

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): Bari Levin is a retired special educator with over 34 years of experience, predominantly working with middle school students with learning differences. He is actively involved with the I Am Able Foundation, focusing on storytelling to remove the stigma associated with neurodiversity. Bari co-leads the We All Learn Differently campaign to foster understanding and empathy for neurodivergent students in middle schools.Episode Summary: In this episode of the Think Inclusive Podcast, host Tim Villegas interviews Bari Levin, a seasoned special educator and advocate for neurodivergent students. The discussion dives into the We All Learn Differently campaign, an initiative that leverages storytelling to eliminate the stigma around learning differences in middle school students. Bari shares his insights on the importance of understanding and empathy in fostering a supportive learning environment for all students.Bari Levin elaborates on the origins and objectives of the We All Learn Differently campaign, which she co-developed under the auspices of the Educating All Learners Alliance and the I Am Able Foundation. The campaign specifically targets middle school students, promoting a deeper understanding of learning differences through engaging videos, an interactive playbook, and classroom activities. Bari's extensive experience in special education is evident as she discusses the impact of recognizing diverse learning styles and providing tools for students to advocate for themselves.Bari emphasizes the significance of creating positive dialogues around learning differences both in the classroom and at home. The campaign's playbook includes practical resources and activities designed for teachers, counselors, and parents to facilitate these crucial conversations. With the backing of the community and ongoing feedback from participants, Bari aims to expand the reach of the We All Learn Differently campaign, fostering environments where every student feels understood and valued.Transcript: https://otter.ai/u/ClPrq7tWRreQJ71QvtJOhpu5ImYKey Takeaways:Understanding Learning Differences: The campaign highlights the importance of recognizing and accommodating diverse learning styles in middle school students.Empowerment Through Storytelling: The campaign aims to foster empathy and reduce stigma by sharing personal stories of neurodivergent individuals.Parental Involvement: Resources are provided to help parents have open conversations with their children about learning differences.Practical Classroom Integration: The playbook offers accessible activities that can be seamlessly integrated into the existing curriculum without overwhelming educators.Ongoing Development: Continued feedback and data collection aim to refine and expand the campaign’s resources and impact.Resources:I Am Able Foundation: https://www.iamablefoundation.org/We All Learn Differently: https://www.wealllearndifferently.com/Thanks to our sponsor: https://dcmp.org/MCIE: https://www.mcie.org/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

About the Guest(s): Sam Drazin is the founder and Executive Director of Changing Perspectives, a nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering inclusive educational practices. A former elementary school teacher, Sam brings firsthand experience and a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities in creating inclusive school environments. His organization works with schools nationwide and internationally, providing professional development, consulting, and curriculum resources aimed at building more inclusive classrooms and communities.Episode Summary: In this thought-provoking episode of the Think Inclusive Podcast, host Tim Villegas engages in an enlightening discussion with Sam Drazin, founder of Changing Perspectives. Sam delves into his journey from being a classroom teacher to leading a nonprofit that aims to transform educational practices toward inclusion. This episode uncovers the importance of inclusive education, the structural obstacles that educators face, and actionable strategies for creating a more inclusive learning environment for all students.Sam Drazin shares his insights on why inclusion is vital, not just as a theoretical concept but as a practical approach that mirrors the real world. Highlighting that schools often segregate based on ability, Sam argues for schools to act as microcosms of a diverse society. This ensures students learn not just academic skills, but also about empathy and collaboration, preparing them for a more inclusive future. Villages and Drazin also discuss the often-gleaned yet practical hurdles educators face, advocating for a shift in mindset from "I can't" to "How can we?" This focus on growth mindsets over fixed mindsets is central to Drazin’s philosophy and the work of Changing Perspectives.Transcript: https://otter.ai/u/kMOqK-BonE7gdPEJaRZRVkI8iFIKey Takeaways:Embrace Inclusion as Real-World Preparation: Schools should act as mini-societies that teach students about diversity, empathy, and inclusion.Combat Ableistic Structures: The current education system is inadvertently ableistic, designed more to push out homogeneous groups of students rather than celebrating diversity.Mindset Shift: Moving from a fixed to a growth mindset is crucial for educators to address the challenges in implementing inclusive education.Actionable Strategies: Schools should identify specific, actionable goals for inclusion rather than vague or broad initiatives, enabling measurable progress.Empowerment Through Training: Customized, hands-on professional development can significantly impact teachers' ability to create inclusive classrooms.Resources:Changing Perspectives Website: https://changingperspectivesnow.org/Thanks to our sponsor for the month of June: https://dcmp.org/MCIE: https://www.mcie.org/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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.