About the Guest(s): Dr. Julie Causton is a former professor at Syracuse University where she spent 14 years empowering future educators with dual licensure in special and general education. As an inclusion facilitator and expert, she co-founded Inclusive Schooling alongside Kate McLeod. Together, they work tirelessly across the U.S. and worldwide, helping schools to adopt inclusive education practices. Julie is also a prolific author, with numerous books and articles aimed at advancing inclusive education.

Episode Summary: In this eye-opening episode of the Think Inclusive Podcast, host Tim Villegas discusses the transformative power of inclusive education for students with disabilities. Through an in-depth look at a King 5 News investigation titled Back of the Class, the episode emphasizes the positive impact of integrating students like Sam, who has Down syndrome, into general education classrooms. The story illustrates how inclusion fosters social interaction, boosts confidence, and enhances academic skills, changing not only the lives of the students but also benefiting their peers.

Dr. Julie Causton, a stalwart advocate for inclusive education, shares practical strategies for parents and educators to ensure that children with disabilities are educated alongside their peers in general education settings. Highlighting the legal rights, the importance of a clear vision, and effective collaboration with school teams, Julie provides a roadmap for families navigating the challenging terrain of special education. This episode is packed with actionable insights and inspirational stories, underscoring the importance of inclusive schooling.

Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/Jd7GmvH8X11

Key Takeaways:

• The Power of Inclusion: Integrating students with disabilities into general education classrooms can significantly enhance their confidence, academic skills, and social interactions.
• Legal Framework: Understanding and leveraging laws such as the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) and the Ronker portability test are crucial in advocating for inclusive education.
• Creating a Clear Vision: Families advocating for inclusion should develop and share a clear manifesto outlining their aspirations for their child's education.
• IEP Strategy: Goals and present level of educational performance in IEPs should actively involve general education peers to ensure inclusivity.
• Collaboration and Celebration: Building positive, collaborative relationships with school teams and celebrating successes can foster a more inclusive educational environment.

Resources:

Inclusive Schooling: https://www.inclusiveschooling.com/

MCIE: https://mcie.org/

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