Inclusive Education Project Podcast

Today’s episode brings back Tracy Baynes to share her best tips and advice for getting your student involved in their education earlier rather than later. She gives practical steps middle school students can take to prepare for college success, even if they are low-income students. Join us to learn more!Tracy Baynes is the founder, president, and CEO of STEP, the Student Expedition Program. As an instructor in the oceanography field, Tracy noticed the persistent achievement gap between high-income and low-income students. She created the STEP college access and leadership program for low-income high school students, guiding students from their sophomore year through every step of the college application process. STEP includes summer leadership experiences as part of its comprehensive program to prepare students for college.Show Highlights:Advice for parents of middle school students about early algebra exposure, challenging courses, extracurricular activities, college applications, living on campus/off campus

We continue our journey to view the education of our children holistically as we strive to develop them into productive and inclusive members of society. Tracy Baynes joins us to share her interesting work in helping students achieve unimaginable success.Tracy Baynes is the founder, president, and CEO of STEP, the Student Expedition Program. As an instructor in the oceanography field, Tracy noticed the persistent achievement gap between high-income and low-income students. She wanted to focus her efforts on students who are working hard despite their adverse economic background. In 2004, she established STEP and soon took the first group of students to Alaska for a three-week sea kayaking trip. Show Highlights:The struggle to strive for educational equity for studentsThe “rest” of Tracy’s story of finding opportunities for students beyond their financial barriersStudent successes in the STEP systemThe playing field is NOT level for first-generation college students.Tracy’s accounts of students developing

Today’s conversation covers the impact of recent executive orders on DEI, the historical context of the civil rights movements, and the importance of local community efforts. Our guest is Dr. OiYan Poon, a community-engaged research scholar, educator, storyteller, and leader for intersectional racial equity. Her research is focused on the racial politics of Asian Americans, and her book is titled Asian American is Not a Color. Show Highlights:Dr. Poon’s efforts to navigate her work under the new Trump administrationA historical context of civil rights, advocacy, and the push for DEIIt’s up to OUR generation!The one-size-fits-all approach to education doesn’t work.Less government or more government?The importance of building local communitiesLinks/Resources:Connect with Dr. OiYan Poon: Website, Public Pedagogy website, Instagram, and Asian American is Not a ColorContact us on social media or through our website for more information on the IEP Learning Center: www.inclusiveeducationproject.org  T

Today’s episode features a fascinating conversation about strategies to support students and schools during unknowns and big transitions in education in the US. We welcome Robert Barnett to the podcast to discuss his innovations in teaching math and how his nonprofit, The Modern Classrooms Project, is training teachers to teach differently. Join us to learn more!Show Highlights:Robert’s background as a math teacher–and how he learned to do things differentlyThe Modern Classrooms approach to accessible learning for ALL studentsOur current educational structure does NOT match with what we know about various learning styles.Understanding how the Modern Classrooms model applies to every grade level and every subjectWhen tired, overworked, and exhausted teachers are unwilling to be flexible, the results are not good.Tools and strategies for an all-inclusive classroomWatch Rob’s TEDx talk, Why Americans Hate Math--and What to Do About ItLinks/Resources:Connect with Robert Barnett and the Modern Classrooms Project:

Many parents of kids with disabilities share the same fear of what will happen to their child in adulthood and when they are no longer here to care for and advocate for them. Today’s guest is Kimberly McCarten, CEO of Jonathan’s Landing Foundation, in Orlando, FL. This remarkable organization is bringing innovation into how we service people in the adult transition by providing a bridge to communication and independence for adults across the autism spectrum. A division of Jonathan’s Landing is Techtonic’s Workforce Academy. This social enterprise certifies neurodivergent individuals in WISE certification, paving the way for sustainable careers in the rapidly growing tech repair industry. Join us to hear more from Kimberly!Show Highlights:Kimberly’s background story in becoming the CEO of Jonathan’s LandingThe story of Jonathan’s Landing, its founding, and what the organization doesThe importance of “outside-the-box” thinking to highlight the strengths of these kiddosHighlights of the Techtonic Workforce Acade

We love to offer solutions along with our discussions of the current problems in education today. Today’s fresh perspective comes from Dr. Emily Affolter, the director of the Sustainability Education Ph.D. at Prescott College. The focus of this program is on the nexus of social and environmental justice as enacted in teaching, learning, and leading. Emily’s interest is in culturally responsive teaching across grade levels to infuse social justice principles into education. Join us to learn more!Show Highlights:The battle for social justice in educationCulturally responsive teaching is NOT a political stance.Thinking about opening up the ways we teach and embracing pluralistic methodsExamples of a pluralistic approach to educationThe issues of systemic apathyResources for parents and teachers from the Equity Literacy Institute (ELI)Links/Resources:Connect with Dr. Emily Affolter: LinkedInContact us on social media or through our website for more information on the IEP Learning Center: www.inclusiveeducationpro

One of the benefits of hosting a podcast in our field of civil rights and special education is that we can do quick follow-ups to incidents as they happen. If you follow us on social media, you know we cover many topics there, and we utilize the podcast for more in-depth conversations about relevant happenings in our field. One such recent event is the "Dear Colleague" letter of 2/14/25 sent out by the US Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights (OCR). It gives guidance clarifying how they will interpret federal laws about discrimination for educational institutions that receive federal funding. Let’s take a closer look in today’s episode. Show Highlights:Recent executive orders and memorandumsThe weaponization of DEIUnderstanding the “Dear Colleague” letterA breakdown of the January 21 Executive Order and its impactThoughts on civil rights, discrimination, and DEIWhat school districts need to understandAttempts to spread fear and chaosThere is power in the voice of the people! Stand up!Links/Res

We are still in the early months of 2025, and there is a LOT happening in the state of California and across the country. There are many important conversations we need to have, and our guest, Mike Robbins, joins us to discuss the current state of affairs. We have concerns about what’s happening with DEI and special education, but we want to keep things in perspective and learn how we can find common ground in an increasingly divided and disconnected world. Join us to learn more from Mike!Mike Robbins is a speaker, writer, workshop leader, and podcaster. His work focuses on inclusivity, connection, teamwork, and collaboration. Mike is a leadership expert who partners with top organizations to enhance culture, performance, trust, and belonging. He teaches people, leaders, and teams to infuse their lives and businesses with authenticity and appreciation. Show Highlights:Current circumstances have us asking, “What is happening, and what does this mean?”Mike’s background–and how he learned valuable lessons a

There is SO much going on in our country right now, and we are faced with many unknowns about what’s coming next. We don't want to be part of the “noise,” but we want to give you accurate information about relevant topics. Today’s focus is on ICE, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, particularly in schools. Our guest is Victoria Lucero, an immigration attorney, and returning guest from a few years ago. She practices special education law in New Mexico and US immigration law, so she’s the perfect person to help us understand the ramifications of the new policies on students and their families. Join us!Show Highlights:An update on Victoria’s life over the last few yearsNew policies about enforcement actions announced by the Department of Homeland Security (and how “safe zones,” like schools, are affected)The dilemma for school personnel, and Victoria’s advice about what to doMisinformation is everywhere!At this point, anyone can be a target for removal. (What you can do.)The mental health ramifications for kid

Teachers are our “boots on the ground” partners for all we want to accomplish in education. There are real mental health challenges all around us, and teachers need our support more than ever. Nothing will impact a child’s learning like a great teacher–and the reverse is also true, unfortunately. Join us as we explore this important topic!Karen Foley is the president and CEO of The Juvenile Protective Association, a Chicago nonprofit founded in 1901. The JPA provides therapy in schools and clinics to give children the mental health care and support that they need. Karen is a former corporate executive who left that field to care for her son and found her calling in nonprofit work. Show Highlights:Karen’s background and passion for the work she does todayThe truth about teachers: 48% experience burnout and leave education within the first 5 years.A real-life example of a teacher’s impact on a studentThe work of the JPA to make a difference in schools and communitiesKaren’s advice for administratorsSigns o

Executive functioning is more than a catchy buzzword phrase in the world of education. What does it mean, how can we understand it better, and how can we do a better job of helping students? Join us as we explore this topic in today’s episode!Dr. Tara Williams is the owner and founder of Innovative Collegiate Consultants, which assists students with learning difficulties via a personalized plan based on their strengths and weaknesses. Students learn to hone their executive functioning skills and build confidence in an online environment through working with the staff at ICC. Show Highlights:What are executive functioning skills?Differences in executive functioning skills for elementary, middle school, and high school studentsThe balance needed in providing an accommodation skill AND teaching the child how and when to use the skillThe problem when kids are good at maskingChallenges for older students who have to advocate for themselvesIdentifying a student’s motivationIt’s all about building confidence!Th

Grassroots efforts usually work to bring about change. Unfortunately, our political leaders don’t look closely at education, disability rights, and reform in the same way we discuss these topics here in this space. Our goal is always to spur more conversations about education, disability rights, civil rights, and support for marginalized communities. Patrick Jones, aka “Mr. JonesX,” joins us for today’s discussion in light of the current political climate in the US. Join us!Show Highlights:Patrick’s background and path to the advocacy work he does todayInclusion and educational equity challenges are everywhere.Being a good person matters most.Patrick’s perspective on “laying out the facts” without ulterior motivesWhy we can’t stop talking about equity and inclusionPatrick’s experience as a basketball coach who focused on much more than just basketballWhat we vote for has an impact on our kids and their educationPatrick’s thoughts on the 2024 election When the most marginalized are lifted up, so is everyo

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 pledgeA

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

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 admissio

Today’s episode focuses on a Supreme Court case in favor of eliminating affirmativeaction, which has huge implications in the world of education. In reality, what theSupreme 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 isbest for our country. The upcoming election is a pivotal time because of the impacton the Supreme Court and who our justices are. Join us for more!Show Highlights:● The case in question concerning Harvard, UNC, affirmative action in highereducation● The dissenting justices’ statements: Are our justices in touch with ourpopulation?● The reality of racial inequality in the US today● The issue goes beyond college admissions and permeates other areas, eventhe 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.inclusiveed

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 be

 Teaching Inclusion, Acceptance, and Responsibility Through Character Development with Kristin Woodward-Vaassen and Icle FreelandCharacter 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.

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 i

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 tea