In this Community of Action Podcast, Aurora from the Educating All Learners Alliance sits down with Jason B. Allen, National Director of Partnerships at the National Parents Union. Jason shares insights from his experience at the Community of Action convening—where educators, leaders, and families came together to create real solutions for students with disabilities. From unexpected breakthroughs to shaping policy and strengthening partnerships, Jason reflects on how this transformative experience continues to impact his work and the broader education landscape.

To learn more about National Parents Union and how they put children and families at the center of education politics and policy, visit https://nationalparentsunion.org/

Access the full podcast transcript at: https://bit.ly/CoAPod 

In this episode, EALA chats with Simmi Goomer and Symon Hayes, co-founders of the Inclusive Learning Design Co., an organization dedicated to designing professional learning that supports schools and organizations to embrace learner variability. Listen in as they discuss the importance of inclusive learning environments, the challenges schools face in co-designing and implementing professional development, and how their work supports educators and organizations in creating more accessible learning experiences.

For more information, visit inclusivelearningdesign.co.

Access the full podcast transcript at: https://bit.ly/4iiCgTs 

In this episode, EALA chats with Jessica Russell, Student Service Coordinator at DreamHouse ‘Ewa Beach Public Charter School in Hawai‘i, about her experience as a School Study Tour attendee. Listen in as she shares what inspired DreamHouse to join, the biggest eye-opening moments, and how the school is already putting key takeaways into action. Plus, hear how these changes are impacting students and teachers and what’s next on their journey. For more information, visit www.dreamhouseewabeach.org.

Access the full podcast transcript at: https://bit.ly/4hZv6Us 

In this episode, EALA chats with Meg Grigal, the Director of Think College at the Institute for Community Inclusion at the University of Massachusetts Boston, a national center dedicated to expanding and improving post-secondary education options for students with intellectual disabilities. Listen in as they discuss the importance of inclusive higher education, the challenges of shifting expectations around college access for students with disabilities, and the data-backed success stories demonstrating how college improves employment outcomes. For more information, visit www.thinkhighered.net.

Access the full podcast transcript at: https://bit.ly/5mwthinkcollege 

In this episode, Amber from the Educating All Learners Alliance explores how Mildred Osborne Charter School is redefining education through a commitment to equity and critical thinking. Featuring insights from Mary Ellen Costello, Director of Special Education at Crescent City Schools, this episode highlights mission-driven practices, innovative support structures, and success stories that show the power of inclusive education. Discover how this New Orleans school supports all learners in achieving academic excellence and character development.

Access the full podcast transcript at: https://bit.ly/5MWMOC 

Join EALA for a chat with Lauren Hough Williams, Executive Director of PINE, about creating neuroinclusive spaces where every child belongs. Discover how PINE empowers schools and communities to embrace neurodiversity, tackle challenges in education, and celebrate wins that transform learning environments for all.

Access the full podcast transcript at: https://bit.ly/5minwithpine 

In this episode, EALA sits down with Jared B. Fries, the Partnerships Lead at Along by Gradient Learning. Listen in as they discuss the importance of teacher-student relationships in improving student outcomes, and how building strong connections is crucial for reducing absenteeism and behavioral issues, especially among diverse learners.

To learn more about this free, online tool, visit along.org

Access the full podcast transcript at: https://bit.ly/4d8BgOy 

Series Overview: Join EALA for an in-depth discussion with Virgel Hammonds and Jennifer Kabaker of The Aurora Institute as they explore the 2024 State Policy Priorities. In April 2024, The Aurora Institute released state policy recommendations aimed at transforming education for all learners, especially those underserved by the current system. Each bite-sized segment in our series covers one of the six identified policy shifts.

Episode 6: Redesigning Learning Experiences In this episode, we break down the sixth policy recommendation: Redesign learning experiences. Explore how fostering innovation in school design can create more flexible, student-centered learning environments. Virgel and Jennifer discuss how states can encourage innovative approaches to education that better meet the needs of all learners. To learn more, visit Aurora Institute and read the Policy Priorities.

Access the full podcast transcript at: https://bit.ly/4dZILZ6 

Series Overview:Join EALA for an in-depth discussion with Virgel Hammonds and Jennifer Kabaker of The Aurora Institute as they explore the 2024 State Policy Priorities. In April 2024, The Aurora Institute released state policy recommendations aimed at transforming education for all learners, especially those underserved by the current system. Each bite-sized segment in our series covers one of the six identified policy shifts.

Episode 5: Supporting Educators in Competency-Based Systems In this episode, we break down the fifth policy recommendation: Support educators to thrive in a competency-based system. Learn how state policies can better support educators in developing the skills and knowledge necessary to teach in a modern, learner-centered environment. Virgel and Jennifer discuss strategies for professional development, mentorship, and career advancement that align with this policy shift. To learn more, visit Aurora Institute and read the Policy Priorities.

Access the full podcast transcript at: https://bit.ly/4e64vTj 

Series Overview:Join EALA for an in-depth discussion with Virgel Hammonds and Jennifer Kabaker of The Aurora Institute as they explore the 2024 State Policy Priorities. In April 2024, The Aurora Institute released state policy recommendations aimed at transforming education for all learners, especially those underserved by the current system. Each bite-sized segment in our series covers one of the six identified policy shifts.

Episode 4: Aligning Accountability and Data Systems In this episode, we break down the fourth policy recommendation: Align accountability and data systems. Explore how state policies can align accountability measures and data systems to better support student learning and outcomes. Virgel and Jennifer discuss the importance of having transparent, equitable data systems that provide actionable insights for educators and policymakers. To learn more, visit Aurora Institute and read the Policy Priorities.

Access the full podcast transcript at: https://bit.ly/3XmocQY