Inclusive Education Project (IEP) Podcast

We’ve become accustomed to the normal back-to-school craziness this time of year, but this year seems more chaotic than usual! Numerous lawsuits are being filed to challenge the funding cuts, which are having a significant impact on programs, services, staffing, and students. There are numerous unknowns that contribute to the turmoil. We are doing our best to keep our listeners informed as much as possible. In this episode, we refer back to the Supreme Court decision from earlier this year, in which $65 million in educational funding was cut. Join us to learn more!Dr. Annalies Corbin is the founder and CEO of The PAST Foundation. Her work focuses on educational research and development, aiming to be not only a thought leader but also a thought partner with school districts, states, and the federal government. The overriding question driving Dr. Corbin’s work is, “What do our kids really need?”Show Highlights:A breakdown of the Supreme Court’s decision to withhold $65M in teacher grant fundingInclusion is EVERYTHING!The implications of withholding the $65M, specifically relating to ongoing researchRamifications for national security, citizenship, the future economy, and other aspectsWhat can we do to forge educational reform?The current state of affairs: “Education is to be controlled by the states.”Dr. Corbin’s call-to-action: “We need to spend the time, energy, and work at the state levels to advocate for the things kids need.”Understanding a frustrating system for educatorsThe next great iteration of our educational systemResources:Connect with Dr. Annalies Corbin: Website, Instagram, and the Learning Unboxed Podcast Contact us on social media or through our website for more information on the IEP Learning Center: www.inclusiveeducationproject.org.Thank you for listening!Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday. If you enjoyed this episode and believe in our message, please help us get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show on Apple Podcasts, Pandora, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Your rating and review help other listeners find this show. Be sure to connect with us and reach out with any questions or concerns: Facebook, Instagram, X, IEP Website, and Email.

Here we are, on the front lines of the fight for inclusive education. Now, a month or so into the new school year, we are already in the thick of the fight, and we are seeing numerous lawsuits being filed as things are changing daily. Many of our listeners are already feeling the impact of funding cuts to education. Today’s episode focuses on the actions of the US Department of Education at the beginning of August regarding five school districts in northern Virginia. Join us to learn more.Show Highlights:$50 million is being withheld from the states in the form of formula funding, discretionary grants, and impact aid grants.The example of attempted resolutions for trans kids—and the stance of VA school districts who won’t back downThe far-reaching budget impacts of the withholding of this funding The chilling fact: Our children are the ones who suffer the most.Practical results in terms of staffing, programs, hiring, and critical servicesThe legal perspective and ramifications of this decisionLook out for the domino effect! Contact your representatives.Key takeaways about the federal government’s power and our fragile systemWhat you can do today to helpResources:Contact us on social media or through our website for more information on the IEP Learning Center: www.inclusiveeducationproject.org.Thank you for listening!Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday. If you enjoyed this episode and believe in our message, please help us get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show on Apple Podcasts, Pandora, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Your rating and review help other listeners find this show. Be sure to connect with us and reach out with any questions or concerns: Facebook, Instagram, X, IEP Website, or Email.

Our goal is always to keep people informed about what’s going on in today’s world that directly affects the education of our students. It is essential to consider the communities that are forming within the broader context of the current political climate. How are conversations being navigated around important topics like race and culture? Today’s guest has valuable insights to share! Join us!Jebeh Edmunds is the founder and CEO of Jebeh Cultural Consulting, a firm that helps disseminate multicultural lesson plans for K-12th grade. Part of her essential work also includes providing training sessions on DEI and cultural responsiveness. Jebeh was a classroom teacher for 18 years before she became an entrepreneur. Proud of her heritage, Jebeh is a first-generation Liberian-American who came to the US as a toddler. Show Highlights:Foundational steps to set yourself up as a culturally responsible educatorWe should ALL learn from our mistakes.Watch out for biases.Children are capable of having hard conversations.Common ineffective strategies around cultural responsiveness:“I don’t see color.”“We don’t have any people of color here, so we don’t need this lesson.”Books help open the door for brave and honest discussions.Jebeh’s advice to educators about reacting in “the hot moment” regarding the following:Handling harmful statements (You cannot ignore them.)Asking for help from your school administratorsJebeh’s key takeaway: “Look to families as a resource and support. They are giving you their best resource: their child.”Resources:Connect with Jebeh Edmunds: Website (Find resources and courses.) and Jebeh's podcast, Cultural Curriculum Chat with Jebeh Edmunds.Contact us on social media or through our website for more information on the IEP Learning Center: www.inclusiveeducationproject.org.Thank you for listening!Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday. If you enjoyed this episode and believe in our message, please help us get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show on Apple Podcasts, Pandora, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Your rating and review help other listeners find this show. Please feel free ​​to connect with us and reach out with any questions or concerns via our social media channels (Facebook, Instagram, X), our IEP Website, and Email.

We are in the middle of the start of another school year across the country, whether your students have already returned or have a later start date. One of the most important events from last school year was the Supreme Court decision to withhold $65M in federal funding for education, and we are seeing those impacts across the board. Dr. Jacqueline Rodriguez is here to unpack the decision and the far-reaching effects. Join us to learn more!Dr. Jacqueline Rodriguez is the CEO at the National Center for Learning Disabilities, an organization that is almost 50 years old. Their mission is to serve ALL students, their families, their educators, and their future employers. Dr. Rodriguez has a background steeped in education, from teaching special education at all levels to being an administrator. Her passion for advocacy and equity for all students is the central theme of her work, always focused on a more inclusive and equitable education system. Show Highlights:The story of the $65M earmarked for DEI efforts—now withheld by the Supreme Court decisionWho will feel the impacts? Every single student!The uproar from multiple states about the withholding of grant money, most of which was to combat the nationwide teacher shortageSpecific examples of what these grants were doing in teacher retention and residency programsThe politicization of teacher preparation is a dangerous precedent.The average layperson is unaware of what’s happening and what the effects of this decision are.The need for awareness and the dangers of staying silentAction steps you can take todayDr. Rodriguez’s admonition to school leaders, superintendents, and any concerned person who wants to take actionResources:Connect with Dr. Rodriguez and the NCLD: Website (Click the “Take Action” tab at the top!)Contact us on social media or through our website for more information on the IEP Learning Center: www.inclusiveeducationproject.org.Thank you for listening!Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday. If you enjoyed this episode and believe in our message, please help us get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show on Apple Podcasts, Pandora, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Your rating and review help other listeners find this show. Be sure to connect with us and reach out with any questions or concerns: Facebook, Instagram, X, IEP Website, and Email.

Welcome back to the podcast as we kick off a new school year! We are excited, as always, to jump into some very important topics in the coming weeks. First up is our amazing guest, Jennifer Catalano, to discuss her work in deaf education and share her perspective on the least restrictive environments for these students. Is it better to have 100% inclusion or 100% special instruction? Let’s learn more from Jennifer’s perspective in today’s episode!Jennifer Catalano is the director of both undergraduate and graduate deaf education programs at Flagler College in St. Augustine, FL. Her background spans deaf education, elementary education, and special education, making her current role the perfect intersection of her experience and expertise. She loves working with current and future teachers to help them serve deaf and hard-of-hearing students. Show Highlights:Jennifer’s introduction to deaf education began in high school.The recent shift to integrate these students with their peersThe most important factor is to follow the path for EACH student in finding what’s best for them—not a one-size-fits-all approach.The best scenario is a blend of inclusion and special instructionLRE should stand for “Language Rich Environment.”An overview of Jennifer’s course: The Deaf Ecosystem CourseA unique approach to getting alumni business owners involvedThe critical language period of the first 5 years of life–and the ripple effectsEncouraging and promoting inclusive practices, even in the business worldResources:Connect with Jennifer Catalano: Flagler College Website and EmailMentioned in this episode: Deaf President Now documentaryContact us on social media or through our website for more information on the IEP Learning Center: www.inclusiveeducationproject.org.Thank you for listening!Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday. If you enjoyed this episode and believe in our message, please help us get the word out about this podcast. Rate and review this show on Apple Podcasts, Pandora, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Your rating and review help other listeners find this show. Be sure to connect with us and reach out with any questions or concerns: Facebook, Instagram, X, IEP Website, and Email.

This is our last episode before our much-needed summer break. Taking this break helps us to refocus and prepare for a new school year. We recently made another appearance on the Diverse Thinking Different Learning: A ChildNEXUS podcast with Dr. Karen Wilson, who has also joined us on our podcast before. Today, we are featuring that episode as an overview of what’s been happening, and continuing to happen, in the field of special education in the US since the Trump administration took office. Enjoy the conversation!Show Highlights:An overview of the state of affairs right now in US special education, especially regarding the executive order to dismantle the Department of EducationThoughts on the illusion of “giving educational rights back to the states”Miscommunication and misinformation about the role and scope of the Department of EducationA real-life example from San Diego, CA, about a specific grant and its far-reaching impact to studentsParents feel fear and anxiety because of grant-funded programs and other initiatives that may not be there to support their children.The best power the people have is to contact their state and federal representatives.DEI initiatives are about much more than race and gender.The potential impact on early childhood education programsWhat can YOU do?Links/Resources:Connect with Dr. Karen Wilson and her podcast: Diverse Thinking Different Learning: A ChildNEXUS podcastMentioned in this episode: 5 Calls AppContact us on social media or through our website for more information on the IEP Learning Center: www.inclusiveeducationproject.org  Thank you for listening!Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.If you enjoyed this episode and believe in our message, please help us get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show on Apple Podcasts,  Stitcher Radio, or Google Play. It helps other listeners find this show.Be sure to connect with us and reach out with any questions/concerns:FacebookInstagram–We are doing videos on Instagram, so connect with us there and send us your questions!TwitterIEP websiteEmail us: admin@iepcalifornia.org

The landscape of American education has undergone significant changes over the past few months, particularly in the realm of special education. Our diligence in staying informed about developments in our field is more important than ever as we approach the start of a new school year in just a few weeks. Our focus today centers on understanding 504s with our guest, April. Join us to learn more!April Rehrig is a special education advocate who does things differently. Her experiences as a teacher, mother, and school psychologist for 20 years provide her with a wide-ranging perspective on education and a unique approach to advocacy. She is the founder of Rise Educational Advocacy and Consulting and has a passion for helping parents and their children navigate the world of special education.Show Highlights:Shift from IEPs to 504s: The biggest problem is insufficient training.The trend of inconsistency in 504sApril’s perspective on the disconnect between IEP teams and 504 teamsA huge increase in the number of students who have medical needs, like diabetes, migraines, etc.  (These students need a healthcare plan at school!)Misconceptions about accommodations, 504 plans, and IEPs504 meetings: What’s happening—and what needs to happenThe benefits of a student being involved in the 504 meetings in the beginning Links/Resources:Connect with April Rehrig: Website (many resources are available!), YouTube, and InstagramContact us on social media or through our website for more information on the IEP Learning Center: www.inclusiveeducationproject.org  Thank you for listening!Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.If you enjoyed this episode and believe in our message, please help us get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show on Apple Podcasts,  Stitcher Radio, or Google Play. It helps other listeners find this show.Be sure to connect with us and reach out with any questions/concerns:FacebookInstagram–We are doing videos on Instagram, so connect with us there and send us your questions!TwitterIEP websiteEmail us: admin@iepcalifornia.org

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, choosing a major, and taking on new challenges in lifeWhy doing the hard work in high school really does pay off.Quality extracurricular involvement extends beyond school to church and community organizations.“How many college applications should my student fill out?”Misconceptions about liberal arts collegesThe benefits of living on campus—at least for the first yearTracy’s take on choosing a college major in high schoolChallenging experiences set you up for new successes and more confidence!Success stories for 2025 in Tracy’s work with studentsLinks/Resources:Connect with Tracy Baynes and STEP: Website and EmailContact us on social media or through our website for more information on the IEP Learning Center: www.inclusiveeducationproject.org  Thank you for listening!Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.If you enjoyed this episode and believe in our message, please help us get the word out about this podcast. Rate and review this show on Apple Podcasts,  Stitcher Radio, or Google Play. It helps other listeners find this show.Be sure to connect with us and reach out with any questions/concerns:FacebookInstagram–We are doing videos on Instagram, so connect with us there and send us your questions!TwitterIEP websiteEmail us: admin@iepcalifornia.org

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 strength and defeating imposter syndromeDEI does not equal “less than” or “unqualified.”Understanding the pathway to success and generational changeTracy shares Bill’s success story, and he’s just one of the 750 alumni of STEP!Interested in launching a STEP program in your area? Contact Tracy for more information. Links/Resources:Connect with Tracy Baynes and STEP: WebsiteContact us on social media or through our website for more information on the IEP Learning Center: www.inclusiveeducationproject.org  Thank you for listening!Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.If you enjoyed this episode and believe in our message, please help us get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show on Apple Podcasts,  Stitcher Radio, or Google Play. It helps other listeners find this show.Be sure to connect with us and reach out with any questions/concerns:FacebookInstagram–We are doing videos on Instagram, so connect with us there and send us your questions!TwitterIEP websiteEmail us: admin@iepcalifornia.org

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  Thank you for listening!Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.If you enjoyed this episode and believe in our message, please help us get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show on Apple Podcasts,  Stitcher Radio, or Google Play. It helps other listeners find this show.Be sure to connect with us and reach out with any questions/concerns:FacebookInstagram–We are doing videos on Instagram, so connect with us there and send us your questions!TwitterIEP websiteEmail us: admin@iepcalifornia.org

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:  Website and Rob’s TEDx talk, Why Americans Hate Math--and What to Do About ItContact us on social media or through our website for more information on the IEP Learning Center: www.inclusiveeducationproject.org  Thank you for listening!Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.If you enjoyed this episode and believe in our message, please help us get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show on Apple Podcasts,  Stitcher Radio, or Google Play. It helps other listeners find this show.Be sure to connect with us and reach out with any questions/concerns:FacebookInstagram–We are doing videos on Instagram, so connect with us there and send us your questions!TwitterIEP websiteEmail us: admin@iepcalifornia.org

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 AcademyClosing the gap by helping autistic kids identify an interesting career, working at this job, and keeping the jobWhat’s next for Jonathan’s Landing?The vision for an all-inclusive housing community to foster independenceLinks/Resources:Connect with Kimberly McCarten, Jonathan’s Landing, and Techtonic: Jonathan's Landing Website, Techtonic Website, LinkedIn, Facebook, and InstagramContact us on social media or through our website for more information on the IEP Learning Center: www.inclusiveeducationproject.org  Thank you for listening!Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.If you enjoyed this episode and believe in our message, please help us get the word out about this podcast. Rate and review this show on Apple Podcasts,  Stitcher Radio, or Google Play. It helps other listeners find this show.Be sure to connect with us and reach out with any questions/concerns:FacebookInstagram–We are doing videos on Instagram, so connect with us there and send us your questions!TwitterIEP websiteEmail us: admin@iepcalifornia.org

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.inclusiveeducationproject.org  Thank you for listening!Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.If you enjoyed this episode and believe in our message, please help us get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show on Apple Podcasts,  Stitcher Radio, or Google Play. It helps other listeners find this show.Be sure to connect with us and reach out with any questions/concerns:FacebookInstagram–We are doing videos on Instagram, so connect with us here and send us your questions!TwitterIEP websiteEmail us: admin@iepcalifornia.org

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/Resources:Contact us on social media or through our website for more information on the IEP Learning Center: www.inclusiveeducationproject.org  Thank you for listening!Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.If you enjoyed this episode and believe in our message, please help us get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show on Apple Podcasts,  Stitcher Radio, or Google Play. It helps other listeners find this show.Be sure to connect with us and reach out with any questions/concerns!FacebookInstagram–We are doing videos on Instagram, so connect with us here and send us your questions!TwitterIEP websiteEmail us: admin@iepcalifornia.org

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 about diversity and teamwork through baseballIt all comes down to connection.Understanding what it’s like to NOT be in the majorityMike’s perspective on current issues in the US: “We should stay informed and engaged without being constantly triggered and angry.”Understanding “healthy mental health”Leading with vulnerability produces empathyConnect with Mike Robbins: WebsiteLinks/Resources:Contact us on social media or through our website for more information on the IEP Learning Center: www.inclusiveeducationproject.org  Thank you for listening!Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.If you enjoyed this episode and believe in our message, please help us get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show on Apple Podcasts,  Stitcher Radio, or Google Play. It helps other listeners find this show.Be sure to connect with us and reach out with any questions/concerns:FacebookInstagram–We are doing videos on Instagram, so connect with us there and send us your questions!TwitterIEP websiteEmail us: admin@iepcalifornia.org

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 kids and families living in fearWhere to go for resources, information, and helpLinks/Resources:Connect with Victoria Lucero: 505-343-2009 and WebsiteAdditional Resources: United We Dream - To report a raid, call 1-844-363-1423 or send a text message to 877877. If possible, take photos, videos, and notes.National Immigration Detention Hotline: 1-209-757-3733 (open Monday through Friday 12pm to 8pm PST) or for more information on the hotline you can also go to: https://www.freedomforimmigrants.org/hotlineContact us on social media or through our website for more information on the IEP Learning Center: www.inclusiveeducationproject.org  Thank you for listening!Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.If you enjoyed this episode and believe in our message, please help us get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show on Apple Podcasts,  Stitcher Radio, or Google Play. It helps other listeners find this show.Be sure to connect with us and reach out with any questions/concerns:FacebookInstagram–We are doing videos on Instagram, so connect with us there and send us your questions!TwitterIEP websiteEmail us: admin@iepcalifornia.org

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 of teacher burnout: increased turnover, mindset shifts, and overloaded responsibilitiesKaren’s experience with social-emotional development in the school settingTips for teachersThe importance of building rapport with studentsData that validates the success of the JPA’s work with studentsLinks/Resources:Connect with Karen Foley and the JPA: Website and Karen's emailContact us on social media or through our website for more information on the IEP Learning Center: www.inclusiveeducationproject.org  Thank you for listening!Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.If you enjoyed this episode and believe in our message, please help us get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show on Apple Podcasts,  Stitcher Radio, or Google Play. It helps other listeners find this show.Be sure to connect with us and reach out with any questions/concerns:FacebookInstagram–We are doing videos on Instagram, so connect with us there and send us your questions!TwitterIEP websiteEmail us: admin@iepcalifornia.org

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!The difficult transition from high school to college (or life)Links/Resources:Connect with Dr. Tara Williams and Innovative Collegiate Consultants: Website and InstagramContact us on social media or through our website for more information on the IEP Learning Center: www.inclusiveeducationproject.org  Thank you for listening!Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.If you enjoyed this episode and believe in our message, please help us get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show on Apple Podcasts,  Stitcher Radio, or Google Play. It helps other listeners find this show.Be sure to connect with us and reach out with any questions/concerns:FacebookInstagram–We are doing videos on Instagram, so connect with us there and send us your questions!TwitterIEP websiteEmail us: admin@iepcalifornia.org

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 everyone else.Patrick’s beginnings on TikTok, thanks to his kidsLinks/Resources:Connect with Patrick Jones: YouTube, TikTok, and InstagramContact us on social media or through our website for more information on the IEP Learning Center: www.inclusiveeducationproject.org   Thank you for listening! Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.If you enjoyed this episode and believe in our message, please help us get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher Radio, or Google Play. It helps other listeners find this show.Be sure to connect with us and reach out with any questions/concerns:FacebookInstagram–We are doing videos on Instagram, so connect with us there and send us your questions!TwitterIEP websiteEmail us: admin@iepcalifornia.org

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 pledgeAlternatives to the word “pledge” to fit your culture and preferences (i.e. agreement, promise, guarantee, etc. )Links/Resources:Connect with Rob Sanders: Website (Find Rob’s other books!), Facebook, Instagram, Email, and We Are a ClassContact us on social media or through our website for more information on the IEP Learning Center: www.inclusiveeducationproject.org   Thank you for listening! Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.If you enjoyed this episode and believe in our message, please help us get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher Radio, or Google Play. It helps other listeners find this show.Be sure to connect with us and reach out with any questions/concerns:FacebookInstagram–We are doing videos on Instagram, so connect with us here and send us your questions!TwitterIEP websiteEmail us: admin@iepcalifornia.org