If mindset is our direction, heartset is our purpose, and skillset is our practice—then culture is the climate that determines whether we move freely, get stuck, or flourish together.
For many school leaders, culture feels like the hardest thing to change. You see outdated practices lingering. You’re working with staff who resist change. Your LRE data is lower than it should be, and inclusive practices aren’t spreading across classrooms the way you hoped.
But here’s the good news: culture doesn’t only shift through large initiatives or multi-year plans. It shifts through the small, daily signals that tell every student, family, and staff member, You belong here.
That’s the heart of Episode 54 of The Inclusion Podcast—where we break down five small moves that any school can start today.
Why Culture Matters in Inclusive Education
- It shapes mindset. Every sign, announcement, or policy either reinforces inclusive thinking or quietly sustains exclusion.
- It nourishes heartset. Culture is lived through relationships—warm greetings at the front office, staff shout-outs, family connections.
- It sustains skillset. Teachers won’t risk trying new inclusive practices if the culture doesn’t support experimentation and learning.
Without the right culture, even the best strategies won’t stick. But when culture shifts, resistance softens, and inclusive practices take root.
5 Small Cultural Moves That Work
- Shift Language. Replace deficit-focused messages with affirming ones. For example, instead of a sign that says “You are LATE,” post “We’re so glad you’re here.” These subtle shifts impact student regulation and belonging.
- Make Inclusion Visible. Highlight inclusive practices in newsletters, staff meetings, or school displays. What you spotlight signals what your community values.
- Invite Voice and Participation. Whether it’s students suggesting cafeteria seating options or staff co-creating meeting norms, participation builds trust and belonging.
- Model Co-Learning. When leaders share their own growth—forwarding a podcast episode, reflecting on a staff success—they signal that curiosity and vulnerability are part of the culture.
- Create Moments of Connection. Interest-based table tents in the cafeteria or quick check-ins at staff meetings turn routines into rituals of inclusion.
Each of these moves is simple, but when repeated, they create a climate where inclusive education flourishes.
For School Leaders Feeling Stuck
If you’ve ever felt powerless to change old-fashioned practices, overwhelmed by resistance, or frustrated by stagnant data, remember this: culture doesn’t change through one declaration. It changes through daily moves that accumulate into momentum.
By focusing on small, doable actions, you’ll:
- Build buy-in without overwhelming staff.
- Signal inclusion as a shared priority.
- Reduce resistance and create a more welcoming climate for every learner.
Ready to Start?
We created a free handout to help you put these ideas into practice. Inside, you’ll find all five cultural moves, concrete actions to try, and reflection questions to help you identify your next step. One small move at a time.
