by MCIE
Think Inclusive brings you conversations about inclusive education and what inclusion looks like in the real world.<hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>
Language
🇺🇲
Publishing Since
11/30/2012
Email Addresses
1 available
Phone Numbers
0 available
April 17, 2025
<p>About the Guest(s):</p><br><p>Nicole Eredics is a seasoned expert specializing in inclusive education, boasting over 25 years of experience in the field. Armed with degrees in elementary and special education, Nicole began her career as an inclusion teacher in British Columbia, Canada. She is the founder of the Inclusive Class and has been instrumental in implementing inclusive systems in over 150 schools across the United States since 2008. Also an esteemed author, her best-selling book "Inclusion in Action" is a vital resource for educators aiming to foster inclusive educational settings. Currently, Nicole offers her expertise as a national presenter and trainer for the Bureau of Education and Research, as well as an education and ed-tech consultant.</p><br><p>Episode Summary:</p><br><p>In this engaging episode of Think Inclusive, host Tim Villegas is joined by inclusive education expert Nicole Eredics. Eredics offers valuable insights into fostering inclusive education practices within school systems. The episode kicks off with an exploration of Nicole's rich history in education and her journey from advocating for inclusion in Canada to transforming schools across the United States. As the discussion unfolds, Nicole shares her experiences working with school districts, highlighting the advancements made in personalized instruction and the integration of technology to support diverse student needs. The conversation also delves into the complexities of standardized testing, the role of co-teaching models, and the substantial influence educators have on crafting positive educational experiences for all learners.</p><br><p>As the dialogue deepens, Eredics underscores significant changes in education, particularly the growing emphasis on individual student needs and diversity awareness. These changes have sparked an evolution in instructional practices, the use of universal design for learning (UDL), and the availability of resources enhancing teachers' capabilities. However, Nicole also sheds light on the enduring challenges, like the rigidity of standardized systems and the struggles of grading students with varying needs. Offering tactical advice, she encourages educators to begin with small, manageable changes, such as observing their current classroom practices, while leveraging technology and collaboration to enhance their inclusive teaching methods.</p><br><p>Complete show notes + transcript: https://mcie.org/think-inclusive/empowering-educators-navigating-inclusive-education-challenges-and-opportunities-with-nicole-eredics/</p><br><p>Key Takeaways:</p><p>-Inclusive education requires a nuanced understanding of personalized instruction and the commitment to supporting diverse learners within the general education classroom.</p><p>-Recent advancements highlight increased awareness of diversity and personalized instruction among educators, yet challenges like standardized testing and rigid grading systems remain barriers.</p><p>-Co-teaching and Universal Design for Learning (UDL) are increasingly being embraced as vital components of inclusive educational practices.</p><p>-Technology, particularly AI, is transforming how educators tackle customized learning needs, offering streamlined solutions for adapting lessons and teaching approaches.</p><p>-Effective inclusive systems are bolstered by insightful leadership from administrators who understand and value inclusive practices.</p><br><p>Resources:</p><p>Nicole's book: https://amzn.to/3GdExBr</p><p>Visit Nicole's website: https://www.theinclusiveclass.com/</p><br><p>Thanks to our sponsor, IXL: ixl.com/inclusive</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>
April 10, 2025
<p>About the Guest(s):</p><br><p>Jeiri Flores is a Puerto Rican disability rights activist based in Rochester, New York. After earning her bachelor's degree in Sociology and African American Studies from SUNY Brockport in 2014, she pursued a master's in Human Development at the University of Rochester. As a passionate advocate for disability rights, Jeiri shares her insights on inclusion, disability, and intersectionality at colleges and conferences, aiming to enlighten and inspire change. Her mission is to empower disabled youth to redefine societal narratives around disability.</p><br><p>Episode Summary:</p><br><p>In this episode of Think Inclusive listeners are introduced to the compelling story and advocacy journey of Jeiri Flores, a dynamic disability rights activist. Jeiri opens up about the relentless challenges faced by disabled individuals, particularly highlighting the dehumanization and isolation embedded within societal and systemic structures. Through engaging storytelling, she discusses the critical role of love and belonging in fostering truly inclusive communities and delves into how these spaces can transform by acknowledging the humanity of every individual.</p><br><p>Throughout the conversation, Jeiri reflects on her advocacy's roots, nurtured from a young age while translating for her family, and how her practices have evolved over time. Key themes such as navigating healthcare systems, societal expectations, and the perpetual need for systemic change are explored. Jeiri also emphasizes the power of sharing personal narratives, not only as a form of advocacy but as a way to bridge connections between diverse experiences. As she navigates topics like love, belonging, and her intersectional identity, Jeiri provides a rich tapestry of insights that resonate deeply with educators, advocates, and anyone passionate about disability rights and inclusion.</p><br><p>Complete show notes + transcript: <a href="https://mcie.org/think-inclusive/the-power-of-storytelling-in-disability-rights-with-jeiri-flores/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://mcie.org/think-inclusive/the-power-of-storytelling-in-disability-rights-with-jeiri-flores/</a></p><br><p>Key Takeaways:</p><ul><li>Authenticity and vulnerability are essential in effective advocacy, as they help build deeper connections and understanding.</li><li>Navigating healthcare and societal systems poses significant challenges for disabled individuals, often leading to stress and self-segregation.</li><li>Inclusion spaces thrive on recognizing every individual's humanity and embracing differences, with love serving as a guiding principle.</li><li>Storytelling in advocacy can be a powerful tool for raising awareness and encouraging systemic change.</li><li>The importance of engaging diverse voices in decision-making processes, particularly those directly affected by the outcomes.</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Resources:</p><br><p>Jeiri on Insta: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/dangerously_gifted/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/dangerously_gifted/</a></p><p>Jeiri on LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeiri-flores-b7bb3651/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeiri-flores-b7bb3651/</a></p><p>Jeiri's story about her mom: <a href="https://youtu.be/bq62Q7Cg85g?si=Il5zrhoH74ZcYRaa" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/bq62Q7Cg85g?si=Il5zrhoH74ZcYRaa</a></p><br><p>Thank you to our sponsor, IXL: <a href="https://www.ixl.com/inclusive" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.ixl.com/inclusive</a></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>
April 3, 2025
<p>About the Guest(s):</p><br><p>Lisa Aquila is a dedicated advocate for disability rights and Vice Chair of the Board at Disability Equality in Education (DEE). Lisa's journey into disability advocacy began after a career as a home care attendant was cut short due to her own disability. As an education outreach specialist, she has been pivotal in lobbying for disability-inclusive curriculum legislation, co-founding the Coalition on Disability Inclusive Curriculum, and advancing the social model of disability. Her work aims to integrate disability discourse into general education, inspiring future generations to embrace diversity.</p><br><p>Episode Summary:</p><br><p>In this enlightening episode of Think Inclusive, host Tim Villegas welcomes Lisa Aquila, a fervent advocate for disability rights and Vice Chair at Disability Equality in Education. They explore the importance of integrating disability into K-12 education, emphasizing that disability is a natural part of human diversity. Through personal anecdotes and professional insights, Lisa outlines her journey from home care attendant to becoming a key figure in disability advocacy.</p><br><p>Lisa shares her experience spearheading the disability-inclusive curriculum initiative, highlighting the success of the program piloted in Pennsylvania. The conversation delves into the social model of disability, focusing on how societal barriers can be dismantled through education. Both Lisa and Tim discuss the potential of early education in changing perceptions, advocating for resources and support systems that enable teachers to effectively incorporate disability studies into classrooms nationwide.</p><br><p>Complete show notes + transcript: <a href="https://mcie.org/think-inclusive/disability-inclusive-curriculum-changing-mindsets-in-pennsylvania-schools-and-nationwide/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://mcie.org/think-inclusive/disability-inclusive-curriculum-changing-mindsets-in-pennsylvania-schools-and-nationwide/</a></p><br><p>Key Takeaways:</p><ul><li>Disability is a natural part of human diversity and should be woven into everyday conversations and education to dismantle stigma.</li><li>The disability-inclusive curriculum aims to educate K-12 students on the contributions of disabled individuals, promoting understanding and acceptance.</li><li>Lisa Aquila and DEE work under the principle of "Nothing About Us Without Us," ensuring that disabled voices are central in creating educational content.</li><li>The pilot project in Pennsylvania offers a blueprint for disability education that could inspire similar initiatives nationwide.</li><li>Teachers have continuous support for integrating these lessons into their classrooms, fostering a more inclusive generation.</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Resources:</p><br><p>Disability Equality in Education (DEE): <a href="https://www.disabilityequalityeducation.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.disabilityequalityeducation.org/</a></p><p>DEE email: <a href="mailto:[email protected]" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">[email protected]</a></p><p>Call DEE at (724)726-1155</p><br><p>Thanks to our sponsor, IXL. <a href="https://www.ixl.com/inclusive" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.ixl.com/inclusive</a></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>
Jennifer Gonzalez
NPR
Crooked Media
New York Times Opinion
Incision Media LLC
ART19 Uniquely Human
Glennon Doyle and Audacy
NPR
Elena Aguilar
NPR
Crooked Media
Have You Heard
Lemonada Media
Esther Perel Global Media
The New York Times
Pod Engine is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or officially connected with any of the podcasts displayed on this platform. We operate independently as a podcast discovery and analytics service.
All podcast artwork, thumbnails, and content displayed on this page are the property of their respective owners and are protected by applicable copyright laws. This includes, but is not limited to, podcast cover art, episode artwork, show descriptions, episode titles, transcripts, audio snippets, and any other content originating from the podcast creators or their licensors.
We display this content under fair use principles and/or implied license for the purpose of podcast discovery, information, and commentary. We make no claim of ownership over any podcast content, artwork, or related materials shown on this platform. All trademarks, service marks, and trade names are the property of their respective owners.
While we strive to ensure all content usage is properly authorized, if you are a rights holder and believe your content is being used inappropriately or without proper authorization, please contact us immediately at [email protected] for prompt review and appropriate action, which may include content removal or proper attribution.
By accessing and using this platform, you acknowledge and agree to respect all applicable copyright laws and intellectual property rights of content owners. Any unauthorized reproduction, distribution, or commercial use of the content displayed on this platform is strictly prohibited.