Think Inclusive Podcast

About the Guest(s):Glenna Wright-Gallo, is most the recent assistant secretary in the Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services at the United States Department of Education under the previous administration and a seasoned expert in public education, focusing on special education and policy implementation. With nearly two decades of experience in state educational agencies and a strategic stint at the U.S. Department of Education, Glenna has developed a deep understanding of inclusion and systemic improvement. As a recognized advocate for equitable educational opportunities, she actively works to enhance the quality of education for learners with disabilities. Her insights draw from a rich career in both academia and policy formation, bolstered by her personal advocacy as a parent and professional committed to public education.Episode Summary:In this episode of the Think Inclusive podcast, Glenna Wright-Gallo joins host Tim Villegas to delve into the pressing concerns surrounding public education

About the Guest(s):Sam Drazin is the founder and Executive Director of Changing Perspectives, an organization focused on promoting inclusive education and social inclusion. Sam has extensive experience as a former teacher and is a sought-after speaker and consultant for schools seeking to implement inclusive practices. Under Sam's leadership, Changing Perspectives offers professional development, coaching, and consulting services and has a broad reach within schools across the United States and internationally.Episode Summary:In this engaging episode of Think Inclusive, host Tim Villegas welcomes back Sam Drazin, Executive Director of Changing Perspectives, to talk about the flourishing field of inclusive education. The discussion delves into how inclusion is becoming a priority for schools, with institutions increasingly incorporating these practices into their strategic plans and budgets. Sam shares his extensive travel itinerary, reflecting the growing demand for guidance in inclusive education across stat

About the Guest(s):Dr. Jen Newton: Associate Professor in Special Education at Ohio University with expertise in strengths-based approaches to families, early childhood inclusion, and socially just educational practices. Dr. Newton has previously taught at James Madison University and Saint Louis University and is a passionate advocate for inclusive education.Eric Garcia: Washington Bureau Chief and Senior Washington Correspondent at the Independent. Eric covers the White House, Congress, and politics, and is also an MSNBC columnist. He's the author of the book "We're Not Broken: Changing the Autism Conversation" and a recipient of the Harriet McBride Johnson Prize for his nonfiction writing on autism.Dr. Carolyn Teigland: CEO of the Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education (MCIE), Dr. Teigland is a seasoned educator dedicated to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion in schools. She has also served as an Associate Superintendent in Cecil County Public Schools, leading transformative inclusive education

About the Guest(s):Kelley Coleman is an influential advocate and author specializing in parenting children with disabilities. Over a decade into her journey of raising a child with multiple disabilities, Kelley has become a voice of insight and support for many parents navigating similar paths. She recently authored the book, "Everything No One Tells You About Parenting a Disabled Child," where she imparts practical advice on various aspects of managing disabilities, both in daily family life and navigating the education system. Kelley is a champion for inclusivity, grounded in her personal experiences and extensive engagement with parents, educators, and the disabled community.Episode Summary:In this captivating episode of "Think Inclusive," host Tim Villegas interviews Kelley Coleman, offering a heartfelt discussion about parenting a disabled child and striving for inclusive education. Kelley shares insights from her book, "Everything No One Tells You About Parenting a Disabled Child," drawing from her deca

About the Guest(s):Alida Miranda-Wolff is an accomplished diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) practitioner. She is a three-time guest on the Think Inclusive podcast, showcasing her expertise in cultivating inclusive cultures. Alida is the founder and CEO of Ethos, a full-service DEIB and employee advocacy firm, serving a multitude of clients worldwide. She is also the host of the podcast "Care Work with Alida Miranda Wolff" and has written two bestselling books with HarperCollins: "Cultures of Belonging: Building Inclusive Organizations that Last" and "The First Time Manager: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion."Episode Summary:In this episode of Think Inclusive, Tim Villegas engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Alida Miranda-Wolff, focusing on creating inclusive environments within educational systems. Alida's seasoned knowledge as a DEIB practitioner provides valuable insights into the necessity of having diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging at the forefront of leadership stra

About the Guest(s):Alex Shevrin Venet: Alex is an educator, consultant, and author known for her work in trauma-informed and equity-centered education. She has authored "Equity-Centered Trauma-Informed Education" and "Becoming an Everyday Change Maker." With a background in therapeutic school settings, Alex now focuses on teacher development, school consulting, and writing. She is dedicated to empowering educators to create inclusive and equitable learning environments.Episode Summary:In this episode of the Think Inclusive podcast, host Tim Villegas welcomes Alex Shevrin Venet to discuss pressing issues in education surrounding inclusive and trauma-informed practices. Tim and Alex delve into the ramifications of exclusionary classroom settings, the role of educators as change makers, and the imperative to place equity at the center of educational approaches. This engaging conversation provides valuable insights for educators seeking to foster inclusive environments.Throughout the discussion, Alex shares her e

About the Guest(s):Alan Courtis is an Argentine experimental musician known for his work with the band Reynols. Founded in 1993, the band is distinctive in the experimental rock scene, especially since its lead singer, Miguel Tomasin, has Down syndrome. Courtis has collaborated broadly in the music industry, contributing significantly to avant-garde and noise music. He continues to challenge conventional boundaries by creating innovative musical experiences and focusing on inclusivity within the music world.Episode Summary:In this episode of Think Inclusive, host Tim Villegas navigates us through a fascinating conversation with Alan Courtis from the groundbreaking Argentine band Reynolds. Broadcasting from Marietta, Georgia, while on a vinyl hunting expedition, Tim introduces us to the profound and inspiring story of Miguel Tomasin, a musician with Down syndrome leading a band renowned for its experimental sounds. Courtis dives into the journey and evolution of Reynols, shedding light on how this unique band

About the Guest(s):Alexis Thomason is an accomplished virtual art instructor at the Pearson Georgia Connections Academy. She has a robust background in teaching, having spent 25 years in various educational roles. Initially starting her career in middle school education with certifications in K-12 art and language arts for grades 4 through 8, Alexis transitioned to the virtual teaching sphere following her enriching experience during the COVID-19 pandemic. She is known for her dedication to fostering an inclusive and engaging educational environment that benefits all learners, including those with disabilities.Episode Summary:In this engaging episode of the Think Inclusive podcast, host Tim Villegas explores the realm of virtual education alongside guest Alexis Thomason from the Georgia Connections Academy. This episode dives deep into the possibilities and challenges of providing inclusive education in an entirely virtual setup. With the rapid transition to online schooling during the COVID-19 pandemic, many

About the Guest(s):Jamie Sowers: Jaime is a dedicated special education director focused on teacher retention and hiring. As Clinical Advisory Team Director at BlazerWorks, he aids school districts in recruitment and retention, emphasizing post-secondary outcomes for students with disabilities. With 20 years of experience, Jaime has been a teacher, coordinator, and principal. He holds a Doctor of Education from Wilmington University and a Master of Education from Mansfield University. Jaime is active in professional organizations and serves on two volunteer school boards.Jessica Bowman: Jessica is the co-Principal Investigator of the TIES Center and a researcher with the National Center on Educational Outcomes. She enhances the inclusion of students with significant cognitive disabilities in general education by creating resources and providing technical assistance. Starting as a teacher, she has extensive experience in professional development at the state level. Her research focuses on inclusion in mathemat

About the Guest(s):Brittni Sammons is a Professional Learning Coordinator with the Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education (MCIE), bringing a wealth of experience from her past roles as a special educator, assistant principal, and inclusive education facilitator. Before joining MCIE, she served the Calvert County Public Schools, where she played a pivotal role in partnership with MCIE to further inclusive practices. Later, she became a supervisor of instructional performance, focusing on culturally responsive instruction. Brittany’s dedication is driven by a belief in every student's need to develop a sense of belonging within inclusive educational communities.Episode Summary:In this engaging episode of Think Inclusive, Tim Villegas, joined by his colleague Brittni Sammons, delves into one of the most frequently asked questions in inclusive education: scheduling. The podcast promises a practical exploration of how inclusive education can function effectively within the framework of school scheduling, empha

About the Guest(s):Aaron Lanou (he/him) is an educational consultant supporting schools and organizations to reach all kids with inclusive, strengths-based practices. Through the lens of Universal Design for Learning, Aaron coaches teachers and others to teach and support autistic students and all kids with a variety of academic, executive functioning, and social support needs. A member of Carol Gray’s Team Social Stories, Aaron also provides Social Stories workshops and collaborates with Carol and the team to continually update and refine the Social Stories philosophy and approach. Aaron was previously a special education teacher in the New York City Public Schools and Executive Director of the Nest Program at NYU, helping to lead the nation’s largest inclusion program for autistic students.Episode Summary:In this engaging episode of Think Inclusive, host Tim Villegas sits down with inclusive education consultant Aaron Lanou from New York. They dive deep into the current landscape of inclusive education and

About the Guest(s):Jenna Rufo is an inclusive education consultant and the founder and CEO of EmpowerED School Solutions. She has worked with state departments of education, disability rights organizations, and school systems across the United States and Australia to create more equitable and inclusive special education programs. She spent nearly 20 years in public education as an assistant superintendent, special education director, and teacher, where she advocated for students with disabilities to receive services in inclusive settings.Ron Martiello is a learning coach in Montgomery County, PA. He has served as a 1st grade teacher, an elementary assistant principal, and an elementary principal. In 2018, Ron became a learning coach to support teachers in the areas of technology and math.Episode Summary:In this engaging episode, host Tim Villegas converses with Jenna Rufo and Ron Martiello about their book "Conquering Math Myths with Universal Design." The discussion opens with shared personal stories about e

About the Guest(s):Dr. Andrea Harkins-Brown is the Program Director for Disability Policy and Systems Change and an Assistant Research Scientist at the Center for Technology and Education within Johns Hopkins University School of Education. With a background as a special educator in public schools in Maryland, Dr. Harkins-Brown has extensive experience serving students with autism and significant cognitive disabilities. Her career transitioned from classroom teaching to higher education and research, focusing on leveraging technology to enhance special education services. Her work at Johns Hopkins includes supporting state and local school districts to improve special education implementation and outcomes through innovative research.Episode Summary:In this engaging episode of the Think Inclusive podcast, host Tim Villegas and Dr. Andrea Harkins-Brown of Johns Hopkins University explore how AI can revolutionize individualized education programs (IEPs) by reducing teacher workloads, enhancing procedural complia

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

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 c

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

About the Guest(s):Danny Whitty is a non-speaking autistic advocate who uses spelling to communicate. He has gained attention for his insights into living as a non-speaker and his advocacy for disability rights. Danny is a co-host of the podcast "All Our Brave Hearts" along with his sister, Tara. Their podcast aims to amplify the voices of non-speakers and advocate for more inclusive practices in education and society.Tara Whitty is Danny's sister and his main communication regulation partner. She plays a crucial role in helping Danny communicate and is an advocate for inclusive education and disability rights. Tara holds a PhD in a field unrelated to speech communication, but she has trained herself to be a practitioner to support Danny in his communication journey. Together, they produce the podcast "All Our Brave Hearts."Episode Summary:In this engaging episode of "Think Inclusive," host Tim Villegas converses with Danny and Tara Whitty, shedding light on the transformative power of alternative communicati

About the Guest(s):Tim Villegas is the Director of Communications for the Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education (MCIE). He is also the founder of Think Inclusive, which is the blog, podcast, and social media handle of MCIE. He has 16 years of experience in public education as a teacher and district support specialist. His focus now is on how media and communications can promote inclusive education for all learners.Episode Summary:Dive into the compelling discussion led by Tim Villegas on the prevalent issue of segregated special education classrooms and the significant need for inclusive education. In this inaugural episode of the 12th season of Think Inclusive, Tim reflects on his experiences as a special education teacher and district support specialist, offering profound insights into why segregated classrooms persist and how we can evolve beyond them. He questions the rationale behind segregated education and champions the cause of inclusive practices for all learners, especially those with complex s

About the Guest(s):Margo Gross: Margo serves as the Supervisor of Equity for Calvert County Public Schools. Her work focuses on identifying and dismantling barriers to inclusion within educational environments, advocating for equity, and ensuring that all students have equal opportunities to thrive.Lisa Quinn: A former special education teacher, Lisa is now the owner and executive director of Reach Every Voice. Her organization focuses on integrating inclusive educational practices and supports that enhance the learning experiences of students with diverse needs.Jennifer Ayers: Jennifer is an instructional coordinator for special education with Cecil County Public Schools. Her role involves coordinating and implementing inclusive education strategies and supporting educators in providing high-quality education to all students.Jennifer Sommerness: Jen is a researcher at the Ties Center at the University of Minnesota. She specializes in inclusive education practices and collaborates with educators to develop st

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 th