The Inclusion Podcast

Is “doing hard things” really the right benchmark for students with disabilities? In this episode, Julie and Kristie challenge the idea that completing unpreferred tasks is an appropriate or meaningful IEP goal. They explore what makes a goal truly inclusive, and offer guidance on how to write goals that support autonomy, dignity, and real-world relevance. Download the 5 Questions to Test IEP Goals at inclusiveschooling.com/download69.

You say you’re inclusive—but what does your system actually show? In this special episode, Julie and Kristie unpack seven clear indicators that reveal whether a school is truly inclusive or just aspiring to be, from unclear definitions to practices that unintentionally exclude students. You’ll walk away with practical ways to spot misalignment and take immediate steps toward meaningful, system-wide change. Register for The Way Wednesdays Book Club and get the Facilitator’s Guide and Self-Study Guide at https://www.inclusiveschooling.com/book-club.

Too often, what looks like an inclusive schedule on paper falls apart in practice. In this episode, Kristie and Julie explain the common traps teams fall into when creating student schedules—and how to build ones that truly support belonging and participation. You’ll learn how to spot “support-based scheduling” and replace it with a plan that centers access, collaboration, and student needs. Get the Inclusive System Scheduling Process at inclusiveschooling.com/download68.

In this episode, Julie and Kristie reveal the exact words school leaders can use to promote inclusion with clarity, confidence, and compassion. From responding to resistance to inspiring buy-in, you'll get ready-to-use scripts and strategies for navigating tough conversations about inclusive practices. Whether you’re a principal, coach, or advocate, you’ll leave feeling prepared to lead with language that unites. Download the free guide at inclusiveschooling.com/download67.

Before you can have trust, share a classroom, or divide lessons, you have to build a relationship. In this episode, Kristie and Julie explore what makes co-teaching work—from shared routines to honest conversations—and why relational trust is the foundation of everything. You’ll get practical ways to deepen connection with your co-teacher, whether you’re starting fresh or have worked together for years. Download the free guide: 101 Ways to Get to Know Your Co-Teacher at inclusiveschooling.com/download66

When a student yells, swears, withdraws, or melts down, it’s not about control—it’s about regulation. In this episode, Julie and Kristie share how to shift from managing behavior to calming nervous systems in the moment. Learn 20 real-time strategies that help de-escalate intense situations with compassion, not compliance. Download the free guide: 20 De-Escalation Ideas That Work at inclusiveschooling.com/download65

There’s a lot of confusion around what Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) really means—especially when paraprofessional support is part of the plan. In this episode, Julie and Kristie clarify how LRE works under IDEA, why needing support doesn’t mean a student should be removed, and how we can shift from gatekeeping to problem-solving. You’ll walk away with language, mindset shifts, and team questions that build a stronger culture of inclusion. Download the free resource: A Para Is Not an Environment at inclusiveschooling.com/download64.

When students are dysregulated, offering a break can feel like the right move—but is it always helpful? In this episode, Kristie and Julie unpack how well-meaning adult-led breaks can unintentionally reinforce escape patterns or erode access to learning. You’ll learn how to offer breaks with purpose, equity, and intention—so students stay connected, not sent away. Download the free resource: The Stay-Put Toolbox at inclusiveschooling.com/download63. 

Before behavior escalates, the classroom environment can do the heavy lifting. In this episode, Julie and Kristie share 16 proactive tweaks that help prevent challenging behavior by reducing stress and increasing connection. From visual supports to relationship rituals, these simple shifts make classrooms calmer and more inclusive for everyone. Download the free resource: Classroom Tweaks That Prevent Challenging Behavior at inclusiveschooling.com/download62. 

When a student swears at you or lashes out, it’s easy to react. In this powerful episode, Julie and Kristie help you build a personalized response plan that prioritizes connection, not punishment—even in moments of shock or hurt. Discover mantras, phrases, and actions to keep dignity and trust at the center. Download the free worksheet: Build Your Own Response Plan at inclusiveschooling.com/download61.