Professional Development #2

Supporting diverse learners requires clarity around accommodations, modifications, and differentiation. This workshop defines each term and explores when and how to apply them effectively in the classroom. Participants will analyze real classroom scenarios and identify strategies that maintain high expectations while providing appropriate support. By distinguishing these approaches clearly, educators will strengthen their ability to […]

Access to Demonstration

Preparing for Our Inclusion Journey

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 […]

Disability as Diversity

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.

Building an Inclusive Mindset

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.

Person-First Language

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.

Disability and Intersectionality

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.

Understanding Disabilities

Excellence for Executive Functioning

Executive functioning skills play a critical role in student success across academic and social settings. This workshop defines what executive functioning is and how educators can intentionally strengthen these essential skillsets in their students. Participants will examine strategies that build independence and reduce frustration for learners who struggle with executive functioning demands. By embedding supports into classroom routines and instructional design, educators will promote greater student confidence, ownership, and sustained engagement.

Access to Demonstration

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.

Accommodations, Modifications, Differentiation

Bridges to Belonging

Belonging is a critical foundation for learning, yet it does not happen by accident. This workshop explores intentional practices that build connections, foster inclusion, and strengthen relationships within school communities. Participants will examine barriers that can limit belonging and identify strategies that create meaningful bridges between students, peers, and adults. By prioritizing belonging, educators will support student well-being, engagement, and identity, helping every learner feel valued, connected, and included.

Bringing Belonging to Life

In this workshop, educators explore belonging as an outcome of the systems that shape daily school life. Participants examine tangible evidence of belonging in their communities and use tools like the Belonging Barometer to assess strengths and areas for growth. Together, they identify barriers and design practical, sustainable adjustments. Educators leave with a shared language, clear insights, and actionable steps to ensure every student feels seen, respected, and fully able to participate.

An Integrated Approach to Inclusion & Social-Emotional Learning

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.

Connecting the Dots of UDL

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.

All Means All: Supporting Student Independence

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.

Empathy Interviews: A Strategy for Inclusion

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.

The presentations at staff meetings have been a huge value of working with Changing Perspectives.

Principal - Maryland

I appreciate the professional development and the training for our support staff. I would recommend that.

Teacher - California

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Find out more about our professional development services.

Preparing for Our Inclusion Journey

Disability as Diversity

Building an Inclusive Mindset

Person-First Language

Disability and Intersectionality

Understanding Disabilities

Excellence for Executive Functioning

Bridges to Belonging

Bringing Belonging to Life

An Integrated Approach to Inclusion & Social-Emotional Learning

Connecting the Dots of UDL

All Means All: Supporting Student Independence

Empathy Interviews: A Strategy for Inclusion