Think Inclusive

About the Guest(s):Chelsea Hutchings is a dedicated advocate for inclusive education, residing in Gwinnett County, Georgia. As a mother of five, with her youngest son having Down syndrome, she became intricately involved in advocating for systemic reform in special education after experiencing the challenges firsthand. Chelsea actively engages with local representatives, school board members, and community leaders to push for change and is a part of the Theo Hutchings Task Force for Inclusion. She has taken part in extensive learning experiences, including conferences and fellowship programs, to deepen her understanding and efficacy in advocacy work.Episode Summary:In this engaging bonus episode of the Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education podcast, host Tim Villegas sheds light on the tenacious efforts of Chelsea Hutchings as she navigates the rugged terrain of advocating for inclusive education in Georgia. Meeting Chelsea at the Georgia State Capitol provided a firsthand look at her dynamic advocacy work with state representatives, including State Senator Clint Dixon.Chelsea Hutchings, a Gwinnett County parent, shares her inspirational journey advocating for inclusive education reform, driven by her direct experiences with the special education system's shortcomings. Chelsea ardently illustrates how her son, diagnosed with Down syndrome, was isolated within the educational system, leading her to champion the cause of inclusive education. By building a community-focused advocacy approach, Chelsea rallied support from local authorities, such as her city mayor, and worked on forming the Theo Hutchings Task Force for Inclusion. Throughout her advocacy journey, Chelsea highlighted the importance of being informed, persistent, and collaborative in effecting systemic change.Read the Weeklyish: https://mcie.org/think-inclusive/one-parents-fight-for-inclusive-education-in-georgia/Transcript: https://otter.ai/u/7Fv-AGGijZrPiXRl86K-dJsn7h8?utm_source=copy_url

About the Guest(s):Dr. Shelley Moore is a renowned inclusive education researcher, teacher consultant, and storyteller based in British Columbia, Canada. Shelley holds a Special Education undergraduate degree from the University of Alberta, a Master's from Simon Fraser University, and a PhD from the University of British Columbia. She is highly sought after internationally for her insights on designing grade-level academic classrooms using strength-based and responsive approaches to include students with intellectual disabilities. She runs Outside Pin Consulting, a company dedicated to promoting diverse voices and expertise in inclusive education.Episode Summary:Join Tim Villegas in a riveting episode of the Think Inclusive Podcast featuring Dr. Shelley Moore, a leading voice in inclusive education. Kicking off the episode, Dr. Moore shares empowering strategies for educators to embrace inclusivity and teamwork within schools, emphasizing the transformational potential of collaboration. The conversation weaves through her personal journey as a parent, shedding light on mindful practices amidst the struggles educators face due to a lack of resources, systemic challenges, and DEI efforts in the U.S. and Canada.Furthermore, Dr. Moore and Tim delve into their professional practices, specifically within mindfulness's impact on educators. Touching on cultural and systemic barriers to inclusivity, they discuss the resistance of change and the pressure on educators to reform traditional models. Dr. Moore highlights her latest initiative, Outside Pin Consulting, which fosters a collective community for diverse perspectives, advocating for student agency over independence. Ending on a thought-provoking note, Dr. Moore shares insights on moving forward amidst adversity in the field of inclusive education.Complete show note + transcript: https://mcie.org/think-inclusive/navigating-change-in-education-a-conversation-with-dr-shelley-moore/Key Takeaways:Educators are encouraged to collaborate with one another, emphasizing the value of teamwork in creating inclusive classroom environments.The concept of independence versus agency is explored, highlighting the need for tailored expectations and goals for students with disabilities.Outside Pin Consulting is introduced as a platform for gathering diverse educational voices and expertise to work towards inclusive education.The importance of mindfulness and meditation is discussed as a valuable tool for educators to stay grounded and present amidst chaotic and overwhelming circumstances.Dr. Moore and Tim address systemic educational challenges, touching on the topic of limited resources and the misconception of resource allocation in inclusive practices.Resources:Outside Pin Consulting: https://www.drshelleymoore.com/outside-pin"People are NOT Supports" video by Shelley Moore: https://youtu.be/rOlUnnxCspA?si=12TxE-iN64KKMFSIThank you to our sponsor, IXL: https://www.ixl.com/inclusive

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.

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

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

About the Guest(s):Dr. Priya Lalvani is a professor of Disability Studies at Montclair State University, where she also coordinates inclusive education graduate programs. Holding a PhD in developmental psychology from CUNY and a Master of Arts in Special Education from Columbia University, Dr. Lalvani brings over 14 years of professional experience working with young adults with disabilities in New York City. Her academic focus is on ableism, the segregation of students with disabilities in educational settings, and she has authored over 20 research articles alongside the co-authored book, "Undoing Ableism."Episode Summary:In this thought-provoking episode of Think Inclusive, host Tim Villegas engages in a deep conversation with Dr. Priya Lalvani, an esteemed professor and advocate for the rights of children with disabilities. The episode kicks off with Dr. Lalvani's poignant thoughts on the paradox of segregating children to foster a sense of belonging, asking difficult questions about educational environments that fail these students. This podcast episode is an insightful dive into the history and ongoing challenges of parent advocacy in special education.Dr. Priya Lalvani shares her extensive research on ableism in education, uncovering systemic resistance parents face when fighting for inclusive educational practices. A significant part of the discussion revolves around Dr. Lalvani's recent study on "battle fatigue" experienced by parents advocating within the system, offering both a critique of current practices and practical solutions to overcome these barriers. This episode is a must-listen for educators, policymakers, and advocates passionate about genuine inclusion, as it delves deeply into the responsibilities and challenges of creating inclusive spaces for all learners.Complete show notes + transcript: https://mcie.org/think-inclusive/battle-fatigue-the-fight-for-inclusive-education-with-dr-priya-lalvani/Key Takeaways:Segregation vs. Inclusion: Dr. Lalvani questions the logic behind segregating students with disabilities to create spaces of belonging, advocating instead for transforming existing educational environments to become more inclusive.Parent Advocacy and Systemic Challenges: The history and current landscape of parent advocacy in special education reveal systemic barriers that make the fight for inclusion strenuous for families.Battle Fatigue in Advocacy: Dr. Lalvani introduces the concept of "battle fatigue," describing the emotional and physical toll on parents as they continuously advocate for their children’s rights in a resistant educational system.Privilege Disparities: The discussion highlights how disparities in privilege affect the efficacy of advocacy efforts, with certain families able to leverage resources and knowledge to push for change more effectively than others.Policy Recommendations: Practical solutions, such as improving professional development for educators on IDEA and inclusive practices, could shift the current paradigm towards more effective inclusion.Resources:Undoing Ableism: https://bit.ly/3Ftd4v9Constructing the (M)other: https://bit.ly/4iRRT4hBattle 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

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/

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/

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