inclusive education

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Inclusive Systems Change in Secondary Schools with Dr. Jennifer Spencer-Iiams ~ 1322

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In this episode of Think Inclusive, host Tim Villegas engages with Dr. Jennifer Spencer-Iiams in an insightful discussion about the journey towards authentic inclusion in school systems. As a leading advocate for inclusive education, Dr. Spencer-Iiams dismantles the myth that inclusion is a “one size fits all” approach. Instead, she underscores the necessity for schools to anticipate variability in classrooms and promote collaboration among educators to cater to diverse educational needs.

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Decolonizing Education: What It Means for K-12 Teachers and Students ~ 1321

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In this episode, Tim Villegas talks with Emily Affolter about what it really means to teach in ways that honor students as whole people, especially during a time when equity work is being questioned and challenged. The conversation moves between big-picture ideas—like power, history, and schooling—and the everyday decisions educators make in classrooms and systems.

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DEI in Schools: Why Belonging Matters More Than Access with Margo Gross ~ 1320

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In this episode, Tim talks with educator and speaker Margo Gross about staying grounded in your values during a time when DEI, inclusive education, and equity efforts are often misunderstood or pushed aside. Margo shares deeply personal stories about identity, hair, culture, and the emotional journey of finding and creating belonging.

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Blue Engine on Scaling Inclusion: Silos, Safety, and Systems Change ~ 1317

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In this episode, Tim talks with Matt Guerrero and Tiffany Galloway about how Blue Engine has evolved from classroom‑level co‑teaching support to helping entire school systems build the structures, mindsets, and capacity needed for inclusive education. They discuss the surprising differences—and similarities—across districts around the country, the challenges of scaling inclusive practices beyond a single classroom, and the importance of unified vision, shared language, and proactive design.

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Katie Novak on Why UDL Is Not the Goal—but the Tool for Equity ~ 1315

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In this episode, Katie explains why UDL should be seen as a mindset rather than a checklist and how it can dismantle systemic inequities. She uses vivid analogies—like camping trips and tax filing—to illustrate flexibility and access in learning environments. Katie also shares her personal journey from being a struggling student to becoming an education leader, thanks to one teacher’s high expectations. The conversation explores the nuances of inclusion versus inclusive practice, the importance of systemic support for educators, and why high expectations and hope matter most for students.

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Public Education on the Precipice: Narratives, Inclusion, and What’s at Stake ~ 1314

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Public education is under pressure like never before. Jennifer and Jack explain why the system is on a precipice, how misinformation and political agendas distort reality, and what’s at stake for students—especially those with disabilities—if privatization wins. Tim shares a powerful story from the Georgia State Capitol about a parent fighting for inclusion, and the trio discusses why educators and advocates must reclaim the narrative. Plus, we dive into the history of school choice, the rise of vouchers and charters, and end with a lighthearted mystery question from Tim’s 12-year-old.

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Think Inclusive Turns 13 ~ 1313

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On this special Giving Tuesday edition of Think Inclusive, host Tim Villegas celebrates 13 years of the podcast and the ongoing work of MCIE to advance inclusive education. The live event features interactive games, audience participation, and heartfelt reflections from special guests and supporters. The episode highlights stories of advocacy, legal victories, and personal transformation, while also surpassing fundraising goals for MCIE. Listeners are treated to bold predictions for the future of inclusion, practical tips for educators, and a collaborative spirit that defines the Think Inclusive community.

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Down Syndrome Advocacy in Action: Lessons from Audrey and Jeremy ~ 1311

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Watch the episode on YouTube. Down Syndrome Advocacy in Action: Lessons from Aud | RSS.com Show Notes About the Guest(s) Audrey and Jeremy are lifelong friends, advocates, and co-hosts of The Audrey and Jeremy Show. Together, they speak up for disability rights, share their experiences as people with disabilities, and work to make schools and

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Designing Schools for Belonging: Jordyn Zimmerman on Inclusion and AAC Tools ~ 1310

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Watch the episode on YouTube. Designing Schools for Belonging: Jordyn Zimmerman | RSS.com Show Notes About the Guest(s) Jordyn Zimmerman is a passionate educator, disability advocate, and accessibility innovator. Diagnosed as autistic and denied access to augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) until age 18, Jordyn’s work centers on ensuring every learner has the tools and

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All Students Belong: Reflections from My Conversation with Will Parker

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School should be a place where every learner belongs. Hello inclusionists, If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to be a guest on a podcast, I’ll let you in on a secret: I love it. If you have a podcast (even if it’s just you and your dog listening) don’t hesitate to reach out. I’ll

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