Educators are responsible for assessing student performance, but we often overlook how students demonstrate their knowledge and the barriers they face in doing so. This workshop guides educators in identifying preexisting obstacles that may hinder students from fully expressing their learning. Participants will explore diverse and equitable strategies to offer students new ways to showcase their knowledge. By implementing these approaches, educators will create more inclusive assessment practices that empower all students to demonstrate their knowledge effectively.

Helping students develop independence is essential for their long-term success. This workshop explores strategies that foster self-advocacy, including peer-mediated interventions, self-advocacy skill-building, and fading prompting. Participants will learn how to balance support with opportunities for independence while addressing individual student needs. By equipping students with self-advocacy skills, educators will empower them to navigate challenges, communicate effectively, and build the confidence needed to succeed academically, socially, and beyond the classroom.

Proactive behavior management lays the groundwork for students to thrive socially and emotionally. This workshop delves into the impact of trauma on student behavior, teaching the ABCs of behavior to uncover underlying causes. Participants will explore proactive strategies that are practical and immediately applicable, empowering them to foster positive behaviors in their classrooms. By creating supportive, structured learning environments, educators can help students build resilience, manage emotions, and engage more effectively in their education.

An inclusive mindset is the foundation for meaningful, inclusive practices and requires reflection, commitment, and growth. This workshop helps educators assess their current mindsets and explore ideas such as ableism, the medical vs. social model of disability, and the core elements of an inclusive mindset. Through discussions and practical exercises, participants will learn how to transition from intention to action. By embracing inclusivity, educators will create environments that foster diversity, equity, and a strong sense of belonging for all learners.

Inclusive learning communities are vital for meaningful social-emotional growth. In this workshop, participants will reflect on their school’s practices, identifying barriers to inclusion and leveraging existing strengths. Through open dialogue and collaboration, educators will explore actionable strategies to create environments where all students feel valued and supported. By prioritizing inclusion as a component of social-emotional learning, participants will leave equipped to strengthen their school’s culture and build stronger student connections.

Universal Design for Learning (UDL) provides a powerful framework for meeting diverse learner needs and fostering inclusion. This workshop explores UDL’s core principles, such as multiple means of representation, action, and expression, and connects them to inclusive practices. Participants will gain practical strategies for creating flexible learning environments that address student variability. By embracing UDL, educators will leave with actionable ideas to ensure every student has equitable access to learning opportunities.

Educators juggle numerous responsibilities, making it essential to integrate strategies seamlessly rather than add more. Universal Design for Learning (UDL) isn’t an extra task—it’s a framework that enhances existing practices, benefiting both students and educators. This workshop will identify the ways in which UDL supports the whole child (academically, socially, and emotionally). By rethinking how UDL connects beyond academics, participants will leave inspired, educated, and motivated to create more inclusive, engaging learning environments for all students.

Disability intersects with race, gender, sexuality, and other identities, shaping unique experiences of privilege and oppression. This workshop explores how overlapping identities impact individuals and how educators can apply an intersectional perspective to create equitable learning spaces. Participants will engage in discussions and activities to deepen their understanding and develop strategies for inclusive practices. By recognizing the unique identities of each student, educators can foster a more supportive and equitable learning environment.

Disability enriches school communities and is the largest minority group worldwide. This workshop helps educators understand how students with disabilities contribute to diversity while challenging ableist perceptions. Participants will explore ways to integrate disability awareness into broader diversity efforts, including discussions on language and representation. By increasing awareness and appreciation, educators will leave with tools to ensure that disability is recognized as an integral and valued part of any school community.

Understanding the difference between empathy and sympathy is critical for fostering meaningful relationships and inclusive communities. This workshop delves into how empathy helps educators and students connect on a deeper level, while sympathy often creates emotional distance. Participants will reflect on their own empathy skills and learn strategies to teach empathy explicitly to students, especially through the lens of disability. By cultivating empathy, educators can nurture respect, engagement, and a sense of belonging.

Empathy interviews offer a powerful way to understand students’ lived experiences and better support their academic and social-emotional needs. This workshop introduces practical models for conducting empathy interviews, guiding educators through preparation, implementation, and reflection. Participants will explore how these interviews strengthen relationships, uncover barriers, and enhance inclusion efforts. By integrating empathy interviews into their practice, educators will create more equitable, student-centered learning environments that provide structured time and space for student voice and agency.

Empowering students with differences builds their confidence, independence, and self-advocacy skills. This workshop highlights the importance of recognizing and celebrating individual strengths while providing practical strategies for fostering growth. Participants will explore techniques to reduce reliance on educator support, enabling students to take ownership of their learning. By creating environments that encourage resilience, self-expression, and empowerment, educators will ensure that all students thrive, regardless of their challenges or abilities.

Neurodiversity highlights the inherent differences in how people experience, process, and interact with the world. This workshop unpacks the concept, focusing on defining neurodiversity and how to best support students who are neurodiverse. Participants will explore strategies for supporting learners who are neurodiverse, fostering environments that value their unique contributions. By shifting perspectives from deficits to assets, educators will leave with actionable ideas to embrace neurodiversity as a source of innovation, creativity, and growth in their classrooms.

Inclusive play doesn’t always happen organically. Educators need to be equipped with specific tools and strategies to facilitate inclusive play between students. This workshop examines the role of inclusive play in building leadership, empathy, and connection among students. Participants will explore best practices, review case studies, and develop actionable strategies for incorporating inclusive play into their daily routines. By promoting inclusive play, educators can create environments where all students feel valued, supported, and empowered to engage with peers.

Mindfulness and SEL are essential for fostering emotional well-being in all students. This workshop focuses on using these tools proactively to prevent and manage crises while ensuring accessibility for students with 504 plans or IEPs. Participants will engage in authentic discussions about equity, intersectionality, and inclusivity, gaining strategies to address diverse needs. By integrating mindfulness into school practices, educators can build inclusive environments that promote resilience, emotional regulation, and meaningful social-emotional growth.

Academic inclusion ensures equitable access to learning opportunities for all students, regardless of their needs. This workshop examines the essential components of academic inclusion: access to content, participation, and demonstration. Educators will assess their current instructional practices, identify barriers, and explore strategies to remove obstacles and promote student success. By adopting academically inclusive approaches, educators will create learning environments that support diverse learners and improve overall academic outcomes for all students.

Physical inclusion plays a crucial role in ensuring all students can access, engage with, and feel comfortable in their learning spaces. This workshop explores the components of physical inclusion, including accessibility, sensory-friendly design, and designing for multiple opportunities. Educators will reflect on how physical spaces influence student behavior and learning while engaging in guided discussions to assess their current practices. By assessing the environments they have designed, educators can improve the physical inclusion being offered to their students.

Social inclusion is a vital component of building a sense of community and belonging in schools. This workshop examines strategies for fostering authentic social inclusion, including relationship-building activities, collaborative learning, and community engagement. Participants will reflect on their school’s strengths and areas for growth, gaining tools to enhance social inclusion efforts. By prioritizing social inclusion, educators can help students build meaningful relationships and create a culture of respect and acceptance.

Morning meetings provide a unique opportunity to foster inclusion and build a sense of community in the classroom. This workshop explores how each element of a morning meeting—greeting, sharing, activity, and morning message—can be adapted to promote inclusivity. Participants will reflect on their practices and learn new approaches to making meetings accessible and meaningful for all students. By making morning meetings more inclusive, educators can strengthen relationships and set a positive tone for the school day.

SEL and inclusion often function separately, yet integrating them creates stronger, more supportive learning communities. This workshop explores their connection, offering strategies to align these practices for maximum impact. Participants will examine how an integrated approach enhances student well-being, fosters belonging, and strengthens school culture. By embedding inclusive and SEL-driven practices into daily routines, educators will gain practical tools to create equitable learning environments that promote growth, resilience, and a sense of community for all students.

Disability is often overlooked in Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) initiatives, despite being the largest minority group in the world. This workshop explores the intersection of disability and DEIB, examining concepts such as ableism and the role of identity in shaping inclusive practices. Participants will learn strategies to integrate disability into DEIB efforts and ensure that every student’s voice is heard. By incorporating disability awareness into DEIB initiatives, educators will be equipped to create more equitable learning environments.

Paraeducators play a crucial role in building inclusive learning environments. This workshop provides an overview of inclusive education and explores how paraeducators can effectively support students and collaborate with teachers. Participants will examine strategies such as push-in and pull-out services, classroom partnerships, and promoting inclusion throughout the school day. By strengthening their role as inclusion partners, paraeducators will gain the skills and confidence to provide meaningful support to diverse learners.

Person-first language places the individual before their disability, promoting respect and dignity. This workshop introduces the concept of person-first language and explores when and how to use it effectively. Through interactive discussions, participants will examine the impact of language on behavior and learn practical strategies for incorporating inclusive terminology into their daily practices. By practicing thoughtful communication, educators can create environments that reflect respect, understanding, and a commitment to inclusion.

Inclusive practices require continuous reflection, planning, and collaboration. This workshop provides a roadmap for educators, administrators, and school communities to strengthen their inclusion efforts. Participants will establish common definitions, identify barriers, and set clear goals for success. They will also explore timelines and actionable strategies to guide their inclusion journey. By working toward a shared vision, educators will be equipped to create lasting and meaningful inclusive practices.

Turning inclusive practices into reality requires careful planning and execution. This workshop guides educators through a step-by-step process for evaluating, designing, and implementing inclusive strategies in schools. Participants will explore best practices, share ideas, and develop actionable plans tailored to their classrooms and communities. By prioritizing collaboration and equity, educators will gain the tools and confidence needed to create truly inclusive learning environments where all students can thrive.

Social-emotional learning is a fundamental aspect of education and is most effective when seamlessly woven into daily instruction. This workshop provides educators with strategies to integrate SEL into standard curricula, ensuring it becomes a natural part of students’ learning experiences. Participants will explore case studies, practical tools, and resources while reflecting on the supports they need to succeed. By embedding SEL into their teaching, educators can create environments that nurture academic achievement, emotional growth, and positive classroom culture.

Supporting complex learners in their social-emotional growth requires intentionality and tailored strategies. This workshop helps educators identify diverse learning needs and explore the “why” behind designing purposeful SEL approaches. Participants will gain specific tools to address the unique challenges of complex learners, ensuring all students can succeed socially, emotionally, and academically. By focusing on individualized strategies, educators will leave with practical solutions to create inclusive and supportive learning environments for every student.

Educators’ emotional well-being significantly influences their ability to support students’ SEL development. This workshop encourages participants to reflect on their motivations, personal wellness, and the impact of growth mindsets in teaching. Through self-reflection and discussion, educators will explore how their experiences shape classroom environments and relationships with students. By prioritizing their own emotional health, participants will gain insights and strategies to foster stronger social-emotional connections with students, ultimately enhancing their teaching effectiveness.

Inclusion involves creating environments where all students feel valued and supported across academic, physical, and social dimensions. This workshop explores these three key components of inclusion and examines strategies to remove barriers in the classroom to create greater inclusive opportunities. Participants will gain practical tools to foster diversity, equity, and belonging while ensuring that all students can fully participate in learning. By creating inclusive spaces, educators will cultivate collaboration, engagement, and meaningful opportunities for every learner.

Strong relationships are critical for students’ emotional and academic success. This workshop emphasizes the importance of understanding and interpreting behavioral changes as indicators of students’ emotional needs. Educators will learn how to build meaningful connections, provide timely interventions, and support social-emotional development. By prioritizing building strong relationships with students, educators can continue to create a safe, nurturing environment where students feel supported, valued, and ready to learn and grow to their full potential.

Language shapes perceptions and influences behavior, making inclusive communication essential for respect and equity. This workshop explores key concepts such as person-first vs. identity-first language, asset-based communication, and ableism. Participants will reflect on their language choices and explore strategies to ensure inclusivity in school communities. By adopting more thoughtful communication practices, educators can create environments where every individual feels valued, respected, and part of a culture of belonging.

Inclusion strengthens school communities by fostering empathy, collaboration, and respect for diversity. This workshop examines academic, physical, and social inclusion, exploring strategies for ensuring all students can participate fully in their education. Participants will reflect on the benefits of inclusion for students with and without disabilities, gaining tools to create equitable opportunities. By understanding inclusion’s value, educators will be equipped with practical steps to implement it effectively in their schools.

Inclusive communities extend beyond the classroom, encompassing all aspects of society. This workshop explores how educators can prepare students with disabilities to participate in society beyond the comforts of the school. Participants will examine examples of inclusion beyond school settings and develop strategies to empower students as active community members. By fostering inclusivity, educators will help students build the skills and confidence needed for lifelong success and meaningful participation in diverse spaces.

Disability awareness fosters self-confidence and mutual respect among students, creating opportunities to celebrate individual strengths and differences. This workshop introduces the concept of disability awareness and explores its positive impact on school culture. Participants will learn strategies to incorporate disability awareness into everyday curriculum, from classroom discussions to community events. By promoting understanding and empathy, educators will create environments where all students feel valued and empowered to succeed.

Inclusive practices begin with self-reflection and personal experiences. This workshop encourages educators to explore their own connections to inclusion and examine how their perspectives and past lived experiences shape their teaching approaches. Through guided conversations, participants will discuss challenges, successes, and strategies for creating more inclusive classrooms and school communities. By becoming more aware of lived experience, educators can better take meaningful action, advocate for equitable learning environments, and create lasting positive change for all students.

Social-emotional learning equips students with the tools they need to navigate emotions, relationships, and personal growth. This workshop introduces and unpacks the five core SEL competencies, exploring their impact on academic success and overall well-being. Participants will build a common language and understanding of what social-emotional learning really is. By understanding the transformative power of SEL, educators will be prepared to create environments that nurture lifelong learning and success for all students.

Discussing disabilities and other sensitive topics is essential for building empathy and understanding. This workshop introduces five key steps for initiating and facilitating discussions on disability in a respectful and productive way. Participants will gain tools to create safe spaces where students can explore complex issues with confidence. By using effective communication strategies, educators will be equipped to facilitate meaningful discussions that promote inclusivity and strengthen school communities.