About the Guest(s):

Glenna Wright-Gallo, is most the recent assistant secretary in the Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services at the United States Department of Education under the previous administration and a seasoned expert in public education, focusing on special education and policy implementation. With nearly two decades of experience in state educational agencies and a strategic stint at the U.S. Department of Education, Glenna has developed a deep understanding of inclusion and systemic improvement. As a recognized advocate for equitable educational opportunities, she actively works to enhance the quality of education for learners with disabilities. Her insights draw from a rich career in both academia and policy formation, bolstered by her personal advocacy as a parent and professional committed to public education.

Episode Summary:

In this episode of the Think Inclusive podcast, Glenna Wright-Gallo joins host Tim Villegas to delve into the pressing concerns surrounding public education, particularly in the context of special education. They discuss the threats and misconceptions about dismantling the ED and explore the role and significance of federal oversight in ensuring equitable education for all. Glenna offers her expert perspective on why maintaining the structure of public education is crucial while advocating for continuous reform and improvement.

Amidst a backdrop of political shifts and administrative changes, the conversation underscores the vital role the Department of Education plays in supporting diverse and inclusive educational environments. Keywords like "IDEA oversight," "federal funding," and "inclusive practices" punctuate their discussion as they highlight the consequences of weakening federal oversight. Glenna articulates the potential risks, emphasizing the need for a coordinated system that combines federal guidance with state implementation to support learners with disabilities effectively.

The discussion is timely and pertinent, especially in light of increased political attention on education. They examine the impact of executive orders on DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) initiatives, underscoring the critical nature of advocacy and public involvement. Glenna's insight offers listeners a comprehensive understanding of the complexities of public education reform, stressing the importance of informed community engagement and robust advocacy in shaping policy that serves every child equitably.

Complete Show Notes + Transcript: https://mcie.org/think-inclusive/saving-ed-why-the-u-s-department-of-education-is-essential-for-students-with-disabilities/

Key Takeaways:

• The ED plays a crucial role in ensuring consistent educational standards across states, particularly for special education.
• Dismantling the Department could result in fragmented oversight, reducing the effectiveness of IDEA and potentially reversing progress made in inclusive education.
• Monitoring and public input are vital components of federal and state education oversight, yet both require significant public engagement to be effective.
• Diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives remain essential for fostering inclusive learning environments, despite political opposition.
• Advocacy and public voice are crucial in protecting and advancing public education policies that support equity and access for all students.

Resources:

Building and Sustaining Inclusive Educational Practices: https://bit.ly/ED-Inclusive-Practices

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