Episodes
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Believe it or not, October is over. It was a busy month for IEP meetings, and the holiday rush is about to begin. In today’s episode, we want to give helpful insights about community building in a classroom through a simple, actionable technique; this conversation will benefit teachers, parents, and administrators–anyone who wants to foster confidence and community in kids.
We are joined by Rob Sanders, a children’s book author who spent time as a 4th grade ELA teacher and writing coach. Rob is the author of several books, including the newly published picture book, We Are a Class.
Show Highlights:
Rob’s writing journey by way of the classroomThe biggest classroom challenges in building communityWhy Rob wrote We Are a Class. Empowering students to be confident writers through embracing a common purposeCreating a good classroom culture through pledgesStudents take ownership when they know what to expect.The inner voice that a student can rely on to recognize their purpose through a simple pledgeAlternatives to the word “pledge” to fit your culture and preferences (i.e. agreement, promise, guarantee, etc. )Links/Resources:
Connect with Rob Sanders: Website (Find Rob’s other books!), Facebook, Instagram, Email, and We Are a Class
Contact us on social media or through our website for more information on the IEP Learning Center: www.inclusiveeducationproject.org
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, please help us get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show on 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
Instagram–We are doing videos on Instagram, so connect with us here and send us your questions!
Twitter
IEP website
Email us: [email protected]
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Today’s episode includes a look into the controversial Project 2025 plan, a 900-page roadmap created by far-right think tanks, like The Heritage Foundation. With the elections looming, we are giving our perspectives on some of the alarming implications of this proposal, particularly its potential to dismantle essential educational protections, erase civil rights language, and threaten public education across the United States.
Tune in as we discuss how Project 2025 threatens diversity, equity, and inclusion, how it threatens The State Department of Education and Title 1 funding, and the risks posed to students with disabilities, students of color, and low-income families. We also discuss how this could have broader consequences for public education and society, as a whole.
Please be sure to share this episode with your family, friends, and others!
Show Highlights:
Deleting terms—and the effects on the American education systemPotential defunding of public schools through voucher programsTransfer of IDEA and Title I funding to private block grantsRisks posed to students with disabilities, students of color, and low-income familiesForcing more segregation: Is that what we want?P. 319–”Federal education policy should be limited.”How the removal of federal oversight would widen educational disparitiesProject 2025’s attack on key civil rights laws (Section 504, IDEA, Civil Rights Act)Connection to policies from the Trump administration and Betsy DeVosReal-world impacts on school lunch programs and state education departmentsThese kinds of changes outlined in Project 2025 affect everyone, whether you have young children or not. Have questions about Project 2025? Email us: [email protected]Links/Resources:
Contact us on social media or through our website for more information on the IEP Learning Center: www.inclusiveeducationproject.org
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, please help us get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show on 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
Instagram–We are doing videos on Instagram, so connect with us here and send us your questions!
Twitter
IEP website
Email us: [email protected]
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Missing episodes?
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In today’s episode, Vickie and Amanda discuss the evolving landscape of college admissions with Emily Chase Coleman, CEO of HAI Analytics. They explore the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on admissions, highlighting the shift away from standardized testing and the importance of considering diverse factors in admissions decisions. Emily shares insights on the challenges faced by students from different socioeconomic backgrounds and emphasizes the need for more equitable admissions policies. If you are a parent navigating the college admissions process, tune in!
Show Highlights:
The evolving landscape of college admissions post-COVID-19Implications of standardized testing in admissions processesImportance of considering diverse factors in admissions decisionsChallenges faced by students from different socioeconomic backgroundsThe need for holistic admissions processes that recognize individual circumstancesEconomic biases in traditional admissions metricsThe role of student engagement and interest in the admissions processAccessibility of online resources for prospective college studentsFinancial challenges and the true cost of college attendanceLinks/Resources:
Connect with Emily Chase Coleman: Website (complete contact form) LinkedIn
Contact us on social media or through our website for more information on the IEP Learning Center: www.inclusiveeducationproject.org
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 on 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
Instagram–We are doing videos on Instagram, so connect with us here and send us your questions!
Twitter
IEP website
Email us: [email protected]
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Today’s episode focuses on a Supreme Court case in favor of eliminating affirmative
action, which has huge implications in the world of education. In reality, what the
Supreme Court does and how they make decisions stems from who the justices are.
With every decision, we should evaluate if it aligns with what we believe and what is
best for our country. The upcoming election is a pivotal time because of the impact
on the Supreme Court and who our justices are. Join us for more!
Show Highlights:
● The case in question concerning Harvard, UNC, affirmative action in higher
education
● The dissenting justices’ statements: Are our justices in touch with our
population?
● The reality of racial inequality in the US today
● The issue goes beyond college admissions and permeates other areas, even
the rights of children with disabilities.
● This ruling sets the stage for what we could face in the future.
Links/Resources:
Contact us on social media or through our website for more information on the IEP Learning Center: www.inclusiveeducationproject.org
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, please help us get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show on 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
Instagram – We are doing videos on Instagram, so connect with us there and send us your questions!
Twitter
IEP website
Email us: [email protected]
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Today’s focus is on accommodating children in the general education classroom to provide a truly inclusive environment. It’s vital for all of us involved in education to understand the WHY of these accommodations with an emphasis on empathy. Join us for a closer look.
Dr. Jessica Werner is the founder of Northshore Learning, a team of consultants based in Minneapolis. They support schools, parents, and teachers worldwide to work with students of ALL types by incorporating cutting-edge neuroscience insights into their coaching and training programs. They offer support for inclusion, classroom management, instructional excellence, executive coaching, and educator wellness. Jessica’s experience with her 9-year-old son’s educational needs has opened her eyes to learning challenges and how to better train teachers in accommodating ALL learners.
Show Highlights:
The truth about educators and their training (and why they need more)Many ADHD accommodations can be applied to every student–and will be beneficialAlternatives to “the old ways” are necessary in education today.Threading in neuroscience to understand executive function deficits from an empathetic viewpointUnderstanding why classroom environments really do matterWhat we call defiance in a student isn’t always defiance.Teacher pushback is often fear-based.Fresh perspectives on the anxiety epidemic in today’s classroomsLinks/Resources:
Connect with Jessica and Northshore Learning: Website and Email
Contact us on social media or through our website for more information on the IEP Learning Center: www.inclusiveeducationproject.org
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, please help us get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show on 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
Instagram – We are doing videos on Instagram, so connect with us there and send us your questions!
Twitter
IEP website
Email us: [email protected]
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Teaching Inclusion, Acceptance, and Responsibility Through Character Development with Kristin Woodward-Vaassen and Icle Freeland
Character education can happen in many forms. Today’s episode highlights a unique program that is fun, effective, and quickly growing in popularity. What child doesn’t love taking care of a pet? Join us to hear more from our two guests.
Kristin Woodward-Vaassen founded Two by Two Character Development in 2005. The program fosters positive character traits in thousands of youth and families across the nation. It has grown from its beginnings in Dubuque, Iowa, to 36 states and several other countries. Kristin spent many years as a 3rd-grade teacher and noticed that kids’ socio-emotional needs were not being met, so she started this innovative program in an effort to make a real difference.
Icle Freeland is the Community Outreach Director at Two by Two. From his initial background as a 2nd-grade teacher, he has worked in character education with elementary through college students. He works with schools to help implement the Two by Two program.
Show Highlights:
Highlights of the programming offered by Two by Two for all grade levelsThe basis of Kindhearted Kids, which uses ten lessons about kindness, empathy, responsibility, and more to grow productive citizens“Pet ownership” opens the door for connections with students.Encouraging and supporting inclusion and acceptance in classroomsReal-life results of Kindhearted KidsThe components of Kindhearted Kids are important in building many real-life skills in versatile ways. The impact of using pets to break down barriers, address challenges with communication and expression, and teach responsibilityLinks/Resources:
Connect with Kristin, Icle, and Two by Two: Website and Email
Contact us on social media or through our website for more information on the IEP Learning Center: www.inclusiveeducationproject.org
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, please help us get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show on 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
Instagram–We are doing videos on Instagram, so connect with us here and send us your questions!
Twitter
IEP website
Email us: [email protected]
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Most of the country is off and running into another school year, and it’s a great time to reflect on where we can improve and how we can be more knowledgeable in supporting students and addressing their needs. This episode focuses on training for school staff, district staff, and parents. Today, we share part two of our interview with Andrew Goff. Part one aired at the end of the last school year and share his perspective as an early childhood teacher advocating for students at IEP meetings. If you missed part one, listen to Episode 311 here. Join us to learn more about ongoing trends in teacher training.
Andrew Goff taught early childhood special education in five different least restrictive environments spanning 12 years. He is currently the lead instructor at Colorado Northwestern Community College, not far from Steamboat Springs. He wrote a memoir, Love is a Classroom, and is a fierce advocate for “inclusion–early, everywhere, and always.”
Show Highlights:
Andrew’s role at community colleges training in the virtual spaceThe importance of collaboration in developing and implementing accommodationsTeacher experiences and three components of curricula: indirect, direct, and temporalThoughts about co-teachingA big root of the problem is that we aren’t educating all teachers on all the varieties of ways kids learn.All children deserve to learn equally and have their needs met.Barriers to learning—and how they show upRelationships and connections allow students to learn better!Teaching teachers to create cultures in a classroomTeachers with biases find it difficult to show up and give a child what they need.Links/Resources:
Connect with Andrew Goff: Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, Love is a Classroom Podcast, and Love is a Classroom book
Contact us on social media or through our website for more information on the IEP Learning Center: www.inclusiveeducationproject.org
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, please help us get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show on 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:
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Today’s episode is a replay of our session at the BOOST Conference from a few months ago. It relates specifically to next week’s conversation, which is the reason we want to air it again. This episode was also featured as an encore episode over the summer. Enjoy!
We loved having the opportunity to speak at the BOOST Conference about our podcast, the IEP system, and special education in general. The BOOST Conference is an annual event to inspire youth, learning, and change. Many different educational professionals attend the conference in Palm Springs, California, to participate in classes, workshops, networking events, and to explore the latest in technology and innovation related to education. Join us to hear this live presentation and the Q & A session!
Show Highlights:
An overview of the IEP podcastWhat is an IEP? What are IEP meetings?The importance of collaboration in the entire IEP processIndividualization, not comparison, is most helpful in the IEP process.The vital need for parents to talk to the teachers before the IEP meeting95% of the conflict in IEP meetings is due to a breakdown in communication.Vickie and Amanda field questions from the audience about IDEA provisions for school-sponsored events, supporting students with extreme behaviors, and expanded learning programs in the IEP process.Links/Resources:
Find out more about the BOOST Conference: Website
Contact us on social media or through our website for more information on the IEP Learning Center: www.inclusiveeducationproject.org
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 on 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
Instagram–We are doing videos on Instagram, so connect with us there and send us your questions!
Twitter
IEP website
Email us: [email protected]
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Last week’s episode was about central auditory processing disorder (CAPD) and its impacts on a student’s ability to learn. For this episode, we are excited to welcome Dr. Stephanie Meyer to the show. She is an audiologist in the Rio Rancho public schools who will share her perspective about how instructional audio can be more inclusive. Her career as an audiologist in public school systems spans almost 30 years!
Show Highlights:
Dr. Stephanie’s journey into audiology and working with kids in impactful waysThe difference it makes for students when the proper audio systems are in place in the classroomsCommon audio systems that teachers can use in classrooms to be inclusive for every learnerDr. Stephanie’s insights about the benefits of proper audio technology in the classroom–(and how she conveys her message to teachers/administrators)Success stories of helping students with CAPD and hearing lossThe benefits of instructional audio as an accepted learning tool–for students AND teachersDr. Stephanie’s advice for teachers and audiologistsThe need for equipment specifically designed for educational spaces instead of the cheaper alternatives on AmazonLinks/Resources:
Connect with Dr. Stephanie Meyer:
Email
Link to the instructional audio Dr. Meyer uses in her district: https://lightspeed-tek.com/
Contact us on social media or through our website for more information on the IEP Learning Center: www.inclusiveeducationproject.org
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, please help us get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show on 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
Instagram–We are doing videos on Instagram, so connect with us there and send us your questions!
Twitter
IEP website
Email us: [email protected]
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Today’s show expands on our previous episode with Dr. Connie McReynolds in which we discussed central auditory processing deficits in kids with autism or ADHD. Even though many experts would argue that this is a medical disorder, it has profound impacts on education and certainly qualifies as an area of unique need for many children. Join us to learn more!
Show Highlights:
Common pushbacks from school districts and characteristics of CAPD (central auditory processing disorder)Children with CAPD will typically “hear” with no difficulty, but information processing is deficient.Digging into the underlying root causes of processing issues requires proper assessments and evaluations.The dangers of an early misdiagnosisTypical signs that a child should see an audiologistStrategies that are helpful for kids with CAPDIEPs, accommodations, and services may not bring improvement if they don’t target the specific issues with CAPD.Links/Resources:
Contact us on social media or through our website for more information on the IEP Learning Center: www.inclusiveeducationproject.org
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, please help us get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show on 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
Instagram–We are doing videos on Instagram, so connect with us there and send us your questions!
Twitter
IEP website
Email us: [email protected]
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It’s the beginning of another school year, and we are coming to you with many informative episodes to prepare and support you in whatever challenges this new school year may bring. Today’s episode focuses on a better way to assess, intervene, and support kids with ADHD by identifying and addressing the root causes.
We welcome today’s guest, Dr. Connie McReynolds, a licensed psychologist and Certified Rehabilitation Counselor with well over 30 years of experience working with children and adults with ADHD and anxiety. She is the author of Solving the ADHD Riddle and hosts the Roadmap to the Brain podcast.
Show Highlights:
Dr. Connie’s background and work as a rehabilitation psychologist and clinic founderUnderstanding the evolution of a deeper and broader perspective of the root causes of ADHD and how it affects peopleCommon problems in the current IEP process that Dr. Connie encounters regularlyThe outdated picture of current assessments—and how we can do betterAn overview of Dr. Connie’s assessment process of 37 different areasIdeas to improve the assessment and intervention process with a brief, 20-30 minute evaluationDr. Connie’s work within school districts to effectively address the root causes of ADHD–and keep more kids in general ed classroomsDr. Connie’s book, Solving the ADHD Riddle, and how it helps people understand neuroplasticity and neurofeedbackLinks/Resources:
Contact us on social media or through our website for more information on the IEP Learning Center: www.inclusiveeducationproject.org
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 on 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
Instagram–We are doing videos on Instagram, so connect with us here and send us your questions!
Twitter
IEP website
Email us: [email protected]
Connect with Dr. Connie McReynolds
Website (Find a free assessment, tips, and resources!)
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Welcome! Today’s episode takes a big-picture view of what’s going on in education with our taxpayer dollars and how we can educate more parents about their general rights in advocating for their children. We use a recent California case as an example of how things can go so wrong–and cost millions of dollars–in special education law.
Tim Adams has been in law practice for over 23 years after working as a lay advocate in the special education legal clinic at the Pepperdine Law School. As president and CEO of the disability rights law firm Adams & Associates, Tim has worked with numerous families to help them advocate for their children and has firsthand experience in this role because of his younger brother with special needs. He sees his career as a special education attorney as a unique opportunity to help and support families.
Show Highlights:
Tim’s recent high-profile case: Irvine Unified School District V. Landers and GaglianoThe money side of this case (what the school district spent on litigation—over $1.1 million)The point of the recent Wall Street Journal article highlighting this caseThe facts: what parents and their attorneys are asking for in intervention and services is a drop in the bucket compared to what is spent in litigationTim’s perspective on how often school districts are appealing court decisionsWhy this case has been a “win at all costs” endeavor for the school districtDigging deeper into the argument that this case was a pushback attempt at anything jeopardizing the school district’s control, such as school choice, privatization, charter schools, etc. Tim’s decision-making process on which cases to appealWhy there will be many COVID cases in litigation for years to comeThe toll that a litigation process takes on familiesLinks/Resources:
Connect with Tim Adams: Website, LinkedIn, and Facebook
Contact us on social media or through our website for more information on the IEP Learning Center: www.inclusiveeducationproject.org
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 on 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
Instagram–We are doing videos on Instagram, so connect with us here and send us your questions!
Twitter
IEP...
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We are joined today by a special guest, Michael Hingson, host of the Unstoppable Mindset podcast. We have shared a lot of time on each other’s podcasts and learned a lot from Michael’s perspective on special education, especially what he experienced in the very early days of special ed. Join us to learn more about Michael’s life and work!
Michael Hingson has a unique story. With a master’s degree in physics, Mike is an educator, best-selling author, inspirational speaker, and disability advocate–and he is blind and a 9/11 World Trade Center survivor. When his premature birth called for a pure oxygen environment, his retinas were irreparably damaged, and he has been blind ever since. His parents were urged to institutionalize him because “no blind child can ever amount to anything or contribute to society”---or so the doctors said. His parents refused and gave him every chance to learn, sending him to public schools throughout his life. He earned his physics degree and secondary education teacher credential, going on to become an accomplished salesman and sales manager. He is a coveted keynote speaker and the author of the bestseller, Thunder Dog: The Story of a Blind Man, His Guide Dog, and the Triumph of Trust.
Show Highlights:
Mike’s story: science, sales, the early days of disability law, and a life of advocacyMichael’s learning process with guide dogs and white canesMichael’s 9/11 experience at the World Trade Center which led to his book, Thunder Dog“Disability does not mean a lack of ability.”We will have Mike back very soon for Part 2 of this conversation, in which we will discuss his involvement in technology development to help many people with disabilities of all kinds. Stay tuned!Links/Resources:
Connect with Michael Hingson
Website
Unstoppable Mindset podcast
Thunder Dog book
Contact us on social media or through our website for more information on the IEP Learning Center: www.inclusiveeducationproject.org
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 on 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
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We're happy to bring you some of our listener favorites during the next few weeks. These episodes are sure to pique your interest by featuring topics important to each of us Enjoy!
We are pivoting from our normal education-centric topics today to take a broader view of the financial side of raising a child with a disability. We want to make sure that families, and people working with these families, have all the resources and tools for a well-rounded toolkit for supporting their kids. We welcome James Lange to the podcast to share his practical insights and expertise.
James Lange is a CPA, a state attorney in Pennsylvania, and the author of nine best-selling financial books. He is a nationally recognized IRA, 401(k), and retirement plan distribution expert. As a result of his daughter’s disability, James developed a passion for helping parents who need to provide sufficient care for a disabled child even beyond their own lifetime. He explains how he and his wife are providing for their daughter’s future and what parents of a disabled child should do right now to ensure the financial future of their child.
Show Highlights:
James’ plan to provide for his daughter for the rest of her lifeJames’ mission to help parents of children with disabilities optimize their financial assetsThree steps to take right now for your disabled child: Get your child qualified for government benefits in the SSI or SSDI. (James explains the #1 mistake most parents make in applying for these benefits.)Get your estate planning done appropriately with the proper trust or conservatorship option. (Don’t rely on “Joe Schmo Attorney” for this!)Get the Roth IRA conversion strategy done right by a financial professional. (The difference in doing this correctly and incorrectly can amount to a huge difference in available funds for your child.) Best resources for parents to use in their education and planning:Get James’ FREE book, Retire Secure for Parents of a Child with a Disability. Click here!Sign up for Expert Advice for Parents of Children with Disabilities: A Virtual Summit, June 18-20, 2024. Click here for more information about this FREE event!Links/Resources:
Connect with James Lange: Disabled Child Planning, Pay Taxes Later, and LInkedIn
Contact us on social media or through our website for more information on the IEP Learning Center: www.inclusiveeducationproject.org
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 on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher Radio, or Google Play. It helps other listeners find this show.
Be...
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We're happy to bring you some of our listener favorites during the next few weeks. These episodes are sure to pique your interest by featuring topics important to each of us Enjoy!
We recently had the chance to speak at the BOOST Conference about our podcast, the IEP system, and special education in general. The BOOST Conference is an annual event to inspire youth, learning, and change. Many different educational professionals attend the conference in Palm Springs, California to participate in classes, workshops, and networking events, and to explore the latest in technology and innovation related to education. Join us to hear this live presentation and the Q & A session!
Show Highlights:
An overview of the IEP podcastWhat is an IEP? What are IEP meetings?The importance of collaboration in the entire IEP processIndividualization, not comparison, is most helpful in the IEP process.The vital need for parents to talk to the teachers before the IEP meeting95% of the conflict in IEP meetings is due to a communication breakdown.Links/Resources:
Find out more about the BOOST Conference: Website
Contact us on social media or through our website for more information on the IEP Learning Center: www.inclusiveeducationproject.org
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 on 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
Instagram–We are doing videos on Instagram, so connect with us here and send us your questions!
Twitter
IEP website
Email us: [email protected]
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We are taking a summer break for July to soak up a little summer fun with our families, so we are replaying some of our most popular episodes that are packed with information and inspiration. We will be back in August with new episodes to prepare us for the 2024-2025 school year. Today’s replay first aired a few weeks ago during Mental Health Awareness Month. Maria Barrera helps us understand the need for a more comprehensive and relevant curriculum focused on skill-building and emotional awareness instead of reacting to students’ mental health needs “after the fact.” Doesn’t it make more sense to support “mental wellness” than to simply address “mental illness”? That’s the idea behind Clayful! Join us to learn more!
Maria Barrera is the founder and CEO of Clayful, a company that began as a way to address the mental health crisis in a more preventative way. Clayful offers supportive tools and resources to help students become more resilient and emotionally aware before they get to their breaking point. Maria is committed to addressing the youth mental health crisis, and her dedication to training a diverse mental health workforce and establishing partnerships with schools have impacted thousands of students across the country.
Show Highlights:
The need for more targeted interventions and skill-building in schoolsThe origins of Clayful to address students’ needs during the pandemicThe challenge in supporting students with behavior regulation issuesLabels and language have POWER!The gist of CA Assembly Bill 2173: to change the language from “emotional disturbance” to “emotional disability”Clayful’s work in destigmatizing the need for emotional supportClayful allows students to connect with a coach every week to develop a “protective layer.”The mental health crisis is here! We need to partner together to help as many young people as possible!Links/Resources:
Connect with Maria Barrera and Clayful: Website and Email
Contact us on social media or through our website for more information on the IEP Learning Center: www.inclusiveeducationproject.org
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 on 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
Instagram–We are doing videos on Instagram, so connect with us here and send us your questions!
Twitter
IEP website
Email us:
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We promised you a Part 2 with Michael Hingson—and here it is! We don’t always get the opportunity to follow up a guest interview with a second part, and that’s why we are thrilled to bring you more of Michael’s inspiring story and his important work in the field of accessibility. Michael first joined us last May for an episode titled, “Approaching Life with an Unstoppable Mindset.” (Click here to listen!)
Michael Hingson has a fascinating life story. With a master’s degree in physics, he is an educator, best-selling author, inspirational speaker, and disability advocate—and he is blind and a 9/11 World Trade Center survivor. When his premature birth called for a pure oxygen environment, his retinas were irreparably damaged, and he has been blind ever since. His parents were urged to institutionalize him because “no blind child can ever amount to anything or contribute to society”---or so the doctors said. His parents refused and gave Michael every chance to learn as any other child, sending him to public schools throughout his life and demanding that he adapt to his disability to live an independent life. He earned his physics degree and secondary education teacher credential, going on to become an accomplished salesman and sales manager. He is a coveted keynote speaker, author of Thunder Dog: The Story of a Blind Man, His Guide Dog, and the Triumph of Trust, and host of the Unstoppable Mindset podcast.
Show Highlights:
Diversity, inclusion, and disability (According to the CDC, 25% of Americans have some sort of disability.)Why we don’t talk about disabilityFear can be a powerful tool to focus us when we feel blinded, paralyzed, or overwhelmed.Michael’s next book (August 2024), Live Like a Guide Dog: True Stories from a Blind Man and His Dogs about Being Brave, Overcoming Adversity, and Walking in FaithMichael’s work with AccessiBe to advance accessibility with AI technologyAccessibility technologies for those with cognitive disabilities, ADHD, etc. Changing the thinking around disability and “visual impairment”A glimpse into Michael’s full life today: traveling, speaking, podcasting, and working tirelessly to advance accessibility for everyoneLinks/Resources:
Connect with Michael Hingson: Website, Thunder Dog book, Live Like a Guide Dog book, and the Unstoppable Mindset podcast.
Find out more about AccessiBe.
Contact us on social media or through our website for more information on the IEP Learning Center:...
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Today’s episode is Part 2 of our conversation with Santanna Ficken, a mental health practitioner who proudly identifies as a disabled, autistic/ADHDer with multiple neurodivergencies. Santanna is a passionate advocate with MnNEAT (Minnesota Neurodivergent Education, Advocacy, and Therapy Services), which focuses on building trust and relationships in the neurodivergent community while advocating for social justice for all disabled people. Today’s episode is focused on how IEPs can be improved to be neurodiversity-affirming. Join us to learn more!
Show Highlights:
Understanding what it means to be neurodiversity-affirmingIEPs for neurodiverse students should respect autonomy, validate differences, assume competence, adjust expectations, encourage self-advocacy, adapt to systems/environments, and honor ALL forms of communication.The goal in IEPs should NOT be to change or “fix” the student!Examples of trauma for students caused by the IEPSantanna’s experience in school as a neurodivergent studentThe process of rewriting IEPs to be neurodiversity-affirmingIEP data misses a lot of relevant information about the student’s experience.What Santanna would like school administrators to knowLinks/Resources:
Connect with Santanna Ficken and MnNEAT: Website
Contact us on social media or through our website for more information on the IEP Learning Center: www.inclusiveeducationproject.org
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 on 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
Instagram–We are doing videos on Instagram, so connect with us there and send us your questions!
Twitter
IEP website
Email us: [email protected]
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Today’s episode is Part 1 of our conversation with Santanna Ficken, a mental health practitioner who proudly identifies as a disabled, autistic/ADHDer with multiple neurodivergencies. Santanna is a passionate advocate with MnNEAT (Minnesota Neurodivergent Education, Advocacy, and Therapy Services), which focuses on building trust and relationships in the neurodivergent community while advocating for social justice for all disabled people. Join us to learn more!
Show Highlights:
Santanna’s background in advocacy and support for neurodivergent children and their familiesAbleism—what people should know about this form of discriminationUnderstanding the three types of ableism: institutional, internalized, and interpersonalThe IEP process is clearly systemic ableism, as Santanna explains. Our focus on “fixing” a disability is wrong. The difficulties in trying to redirect IEP conversations to ensure that every child has an affirming educational experience with accessibilityWhat Santanna wants every school team to knowThe need for plain language in IEPs that focuses on supporting the childLinks/Resources:
Connect with Santanna Ficken and MnNEAT: Website
Contact us on social media or through our website for more information on the IEP Learning Center: www.inclusiveeducationproject.org
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 on 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
Instagram–We are doing videos on Instagram, so connect with us here and send us your questions!
Twitter
IEP website
Email us: [email protected]
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June is here! That means many school districts are on summer break, and many more are in the last week or so of the school year. Wherever June finds you, we are glad you’re with us for this exciting episode.
We have mentioned bullying on the show many times, but we’ve never dedicated an episode to it. We welcome Alain Pelletier, a professional youth speaker on the topic of bullying. He has been fully engrossed in this topic for several years, and he shares with us how he finds a connection with youth on bullying through theory and emotion.
Show Highlights:
The emotional process around understanding bullying: utilizing empathy and sympathyWhat parents should know about bullyingAlain’s process when he speaks to children about bullyingAlain’s story of “the kid in the back of the room”“How can we stop bullying?” is the wrong question.The most critical emotional education of your children takes place in their first 12 years.Links/Resources:
Connect with Alain Pelletier: Website
Contact us on social media or through our website for more information on the IEP Learning Center: www.inclusiveeducationproject.org
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 on 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
Instagram–We are doing videos on Instagram, so connect with us here and send us your questions!
Twitter
IEP website
Email us: [email protected]
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