Imagine a school where every single student feels like they truly belong— where differences are celebrated, not just tolerated, where inclusion and belonging are the norm.  In this session, we'll dive into the practical, research-backed strategies to create that reality in your school. We'll explore how to build a culture of inclusion that transforms classrooms into communities where every student, regardless of ability or background, thrives. You’ll walk away with actionable tools that can be implemented tomorrow, plus some inspiring examples of schools already leading the charge. Ready to make your school a place where every student shines? Join us!

SESSION HANDOUTS

• Key PPT
• Definition of Inclusion
• Nine Essential Elements
• The Circle Makers eBook
• The Inclusive System Change Path
• The Way to Inclusion (sample)
• Inclusion Research Fast Facts
• Checklist of Sample Supplemental Supports, Aids, and Services
• 5 Ways to Become a Circle Maker

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

• Mark Radel Goes to University YT video
• Inclusive Schooling Podcast Episode 30: 9 Must-Have Ingredients
• Learn How to Become a Circle Maker in 3 Steps

Ever wonder how your school can better serve all students, especially those whose needs are not prioritized by the dominant culture and existing systems? This session is all about seeing your school system with fresh eyes—through the lens of equity. We’ll break down the systemic challenges many students face and how to identify them in your own school. Through real-world examples, you'll learn strategies to make sure every decision in your school promotes fairness and access for all students. The goal? Ensuring that equity isn't just a buzzword but a guiding force in your everyday practice.

SESSION HANDOUTS

• Key PPT
• Transition to an Equity Lens
• 10 Ways School Leaders Can Shift Mindsets towards Inclusion
• 5 Quick Shifts that Make Inclusion Easier
• Language That Lifts: Simple Shifts for Powerful IEPs

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

• Inclusion Podcast Episode 38: YES Brain Leadership- Shifting Mindsets to Build Inclusive Schools

Leading a school toward true inclusion isn’t always easy— change is hard, and resistance is real. But with the right tools and mindset, you can transform your school into a place where inclusion is at the heart of everything. In this session, we’ll talk about how to lead through change, manage resistance, and inspire your team to embrace inclusive practices. Using a mix of real-world success stories and practical strategies, we’ll explore how to build trust, foster collaboration, and guide your school community toward a more inclusive future. You’ll leave with a toolkit for navigating challenges and celebrating the wins along the way.

SESSION HANDOUTS

• Key PPT
• Inclusive System Change Cycle
  • Structural & Instruction Solutions: Leading Inclusive Change Together: The Essential Formula for Every School Administrator
• Elementary Reform and Outcome Data: Case Example
• Definition of Inclusion
• Everything You Need to Know (and Be Able to Do) to Close Life Skills Rooms
• Does Self-Contained Special Education Deliver on Its Promise? A Critical Inquiry Into Research and Practice
• The Inclusive System Scheduling Process
• The Problem with Resource Rooms: A Critical Look at Segregated Supports
• Sharing the Benefits of Inclusive Education: 20 Talking Points for Families
• 80+ Talking Points for Families About the Benefits of Inclusion

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

• What is a Common Error Made During IEP Meetings? YT video
• What is Special Education? The Answer Will Surprise You! YT video

In today’s classrooms, one size definitely does not fit all. Differentiation is the key to meeting the diverse needs of every student, and this session is here to help you learn low and high preparation ways to differentiate. We’ll explore creative ways to design lessons that offer multiple pathways to success, ensuring each student is challenged and supported. From adjusting content and process to offering different products, you'll learn practical strategies to make differentiation a natural part of your teaching practice. Plus, we’ll throw in some real-life examples to make you see differentiation in a new (do-able) light.

SESSION HANDOUTS

• Key PPT
• 21 Ways to Talk About Differentiation in Inclusive Classrooms
• Examples of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) Principles
• Ways to Uplevel Your Classroom Using UDL 3.0 Guidelines From CAST
• Access Points for Common Activities
• One Teach/One Make Multi-sensory
• Zig Zag Equalizer
• 101 Ways to Incorporate Choice in Learning
• Differentiated Instructional Menus

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

• 5 Must-Try Strategies For A More Inclusive Classroom
• Learn How to Be a Circle Maker in Three Steps

Co-teaching done right can be a game changer in inclusive classrooms. This session is all about how to build a strong, dynamic co-teaching partnership that benefits every student. We’ll cover the different models of co-teaching, how to plan together effectively, and ways to leverage each teacher’s strengths. You’ll learn how to deliver lessons seamlessly and create a classroom where students receive double the expertise and support. And don’t worry, we’ll sprinkle in some humor and real-world co-teaching scenarios to keep things fun and relatable!

SESSION HANDOUTS

• Key PPT
• Co-Teaching Models
• Team Meeting Role Cards
• Do Not Disturb Sign
• Productivity Phrases: Magic Words to Make Meetings Matter
• Language that Lifts: Simple Shifts for Powerful IEPs
• Triggering the PEA

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

• Co-Teaching Personalities Vimeo video

We’ve all had those moments when a student’s challenging behavior feels like it’s derailing the entire classroom. But here’s the good news: there are powerful, brain-based strategies that can help you manage behavior while maintaining a positive, inclusive environment. In this session, we’ll explore techniques for preventing challenging behaviors before they start and how to respond when they do. You’ll learn practical support strategies, strategies for building strong relationships with students, and ways to foster self-regulation through co-regulation. Walk away with confidence and a toolkit of strategies that truly make a difference.

SESSION HANDOUTS

• Key PPT
• Human Ways of Being
• 4 S's for Supporting All Students
• Lifelines to Have at the Ready for Students
• 101 Ways to Incorporate Choice in Learning
• Checklist of Common Stressors
• 10 Ways to Reduce Stressors
• Effective Use of Visual Supports

Paraprofessionals are wildly important part of the educational team.  In inclusive classrooms, they need the right training and support to allow students to thrive. In this session, we’ll dive into how to train, retain, and support these invaluable team members. You'll learn strategies for creating clear roles, offering ongoing professional development, and showing respect and appreciation that leads to long-term retention. Let’s talk about building a school culture where paraprofessionals feel valued and empowered to make a difference.

SESSION HANDOUTS

• Key PPT
• 3 Reasons Why We Won't Be Hiring More Paraprofessionals
• 20 Ways to Provide Invisible or Silent Support
• Top 32 Strategies to Boost Paraprofessional Retention, Job Satisfaction, and Performance

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

• The Hidden Cost of Relying Too Much on Paras
• People are not supports (Dr. Shelley Moore)

You’ve spent the last two days diving deep into the world of inclusion, gaining fresh perspectives, powerful tools, and inspiring stories. Now it’s time to take everything you’ve learned and create a clear, actionable plan to move forward. In this final session, we’ll reflect on the most important takeaways from the conference and explore how to turn those insights into tangible, meaningful changes in your school. Through interactive discussions and practical guidance, you’ll craft a roadmap for your own inclusive journey— one that you can share with your team and implement right away. Let’s harness this momentum and make sure the work we’ve started here continues long after the conference ends! Get ready to leave feeling inspired, empowered, and equipped to lead the way.

SESSION HANDOUTS

• Key PPT
• Inclusive Structural and Instructional Practices Self-Assessment
• Your Action Plan
• 10 Ways School Leaders Can Shift Mindsets towards Inclusion
• Spot and Stop Exclusion Checklist
• The Circle Makers eBook

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

• Inclusive Structural and Instructional Practices Self-Assessment Google Drive Version
• Learn How to Be a Circle Maker in Three Steps