In this episode of the Think Inclusive Podcast, Tim Villegas interviews Arielle Hobbs, the founder of The Lion League. They discuss the importance of inclusion in schools and how The Lion League is working to create a more inclusive environment for students with disabilities. Arielle shares her personal experience of fighting for her son's rights and how it led her to start The Lion League. She explains the unique approach of the organization, which focuses on teaching students about inclusion and disability to foster natural friendships and understanding. Arielle also discusses the different ways schools can implement The Lion League's curriculum and the impact it can have on students.

Complete show notes and transcript: https://mcie.org/think-inclusive/the-lion-league-changing-how-schools-build-inclusion/

In this episode of the Think Inclusive podcast, Tim Villegas interviews Emily Ladau and Kyle Khachadurian, the co-hosts of the Accessible Stall podcast. They discuss their journey in starting the podcast and their perspectives on disability inclusion and education. Emily shares her experience of attending a mainstream public school, while Kyle attended a school specifically for disabled individuals. They explore the pros and cons of self-contained special education classrooms and the importance of finding a balance between inclusion and meeting individual needs. The conversation delves into the complexities of inclusive education and the challenges faced by the disability community.

Complete show notes and transcript: https://mcie.org/think-inclusive/the-power-of-inclusion-a-conversation-with-emily-ladau-and-kyle-khachadurian/

In this episode of the Think Inclusive podcast, host Tim Villegas interviews Julia Bascom, the Executive Director of the Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN). Julia discusses the work of ASAN, which is a national grassroots organization run by and for autistic individuals. She emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy and the need for autistic voices to be included in discussions about autism. Julia also highlights the difference between autism awareness and autism acceptance, advocating for a shift towards acceptance and inclusion. The conversation touches on topics such as recovery from autism, inclusive education, and the future Julia envisions for autistic individuals.

Complete show notes and transcript: https://mcie.org/think-inclusive/autistic-self-advocacy-network-shifting-from-awareness-to-acceptance/

In this episode of the Think Inclusive, host Tim Villegas interviews Audri Gomez and Aja McKee, educators with experience in the classroom and teacher training. They discuss the Disability Studies program at Chapman University and its emphasis on disability as a social construct. The guests explain how disability studies challenges the medical model of disability and focuses on the strengths and needs of individuals with disabilities. They also discuss the history of the disability rights movement and the importance of inclusive practices in education.

The second part of the episode features an interview with educator and author Re Marzullo. She discusses her book "Sped" and its sequel "Sped 2," which follow the story of Jack Parker, an eighth-grader with dyslexia navigating the complexities of being in special education. Marzullo shares her inspiration for writing the books and how they have changed her perspective on special education. She also discusses the positive response she has received from both general education and special education students.

Complete show notes and transcript: https://mcie.org/think-inclusive/preparing-teachers-for-special-education-insights-from-educators-and-authors/

In this episode, Tim Villegas interviews Debbie Taub, an expert in the field of special education alternate assessment. They discuss the concept of alternate assessment and its purpose in measuring the progress of students with significant cognitive disabilities. Debbie shares her insights on how alternate assessment can be a gateway to more inclusive schools and the importance of assessing all students. She also provides resources and strategies for modifying grade-level curriculum to meet the needs of students with significant disabilities.

Complete show notes and transcript: https://mcie.org/think-inclusive/understanding-alternate-assessment-with-debbie-taub/