School Disrupted

Ever wonder why so many folks are throwing shade at inclusion in schools? Dive into the fiery debate around whether inclusion is good or bad for students. Join us as we unpack the controversies, assumptions, and diverse perspectives on inclusive education. Get ready for a riveting discussion that will keep you on the edge of your seat, eagerly awaiting the verdict on this contentious issue. Tune i...

In this explosive episode, I unveil the harsh impact of labeling in special education—where kids become targets, face misdiagnoses, and suffer from withheld support.  Join our heated debate around the pros and cons of diagnostic labels, revealing stories of frustrated parents battling against these limitations. Our rallying cry urges parents to demand more—teachers that understand behavior, break...

We all know someone who has been failed by the school system. Maybe it was you! Toni launches season two with a heartfelt message to parents who feel failed by the school system. School isn't working for far too many kids and this season Toni will invite everyone to learn about what's happening behind the doors of the schoolhouse. In this season of School Disrupted, Toni Barton is joined by her pa...

In the latest episode of the "I've Had It" series, I delve deep into the world of "No-Excuses Charters," recognizing that this complex issue is not all black and white. These schools have seen both success and controversy in their quest to close the achievement gap. My take is not a soft one; it's a thought-provoking exploration of the hard truths that exist beneath the surface. We acknowledge tha...

In this episode, Toni delves into the continued failure of students with disabilities in Washington, D.C., despite significant financial investments. She sheds light on the limitations of financial resources alone and explore how poorly designed school environments may contribute to these disparities. Moreover, she raises questions about whether some students receive disability classifications due...

In this episode Toni challenges the education system's approach to inclusivity. Toni kicks off the episode with the controversial sentiment, "...if we fix general education, we wouldn't need special education," and emphasizes the need to fix general education classrooms as essential to improving special education. This episode reveals a troubling reality where students with disabilities often lack...

In this installation of 'Toni's Truths' I dissect the episode, 'Why Do We Need to Normalize Difference in Schools?' In this episode, I start by asking listeners to confront the hard truths of segregation, division, and demoralization within our educational system. Listen as I break down the imperative of student-centered design, the need to break down demoralizing structures, and the call to embra...

This is the first of a new segment, 'Toni's Truths,' where I dissect past episodes, name unspoken hard truths, and extract the essential takeaways. In this episode, I delve into the powerful insights from "Why Do We Need to Disrupt Schooling," and address the prevalent issue of ableism, advocate for inclusive curriculum design, and challenge the educational status quo.

"No excuses" charters are a complex and controversial part of our education system. Many are defined by strict discipline policies and high academic expectations. While they've been praised for raising test scores and advancing historically disadvantaged students, they've also faced criticism for their disciplinary practices and exclusion of students with disabilities. Join us as we engage in a ca...

Explore the pressing issue of inclusive education with two of DC's most celebrated education leaders, Rachel Tommelleo and Daniela Anelo. In this thought-provoking episode, we delve into the challenges, solutions, and enlightening success stories surrounding the quest for truly inclusive schools. Join us as we break down barriers, challenge rhetoric, and call for change in the way we see and suppo...

"It doesn't matter how much money you have, if the system design is broken, kids won't thrive!" In this thought-provoking episode, we delve into the intriguing case of DC's "$55,000 student" and the complex dynamics of school funding. While it's true that students with increasing levels of need are supported by additional funding dollars, the disheartening truth is that this monetary allocation is...

"I push back against the notion of normal!" Step into a thought-provoking conversation that challenges the very concept of "normal." School was designed to work for the "normal student," which means it works for very few. In this episode, we shed light on the fallacy of the so-called normal student and its impact in school design. Discover why it's crucial for schools to reimagine their structures...

"We should not talk about anti-racism without also talking about anti-ableism...and vice versa!" Education experts Andratesha Fritzgerald and Megan Ohlssen kickoff our first episode in a captivating discussion about the pressing question: "Who is school not working for?" In this episode, we highlight how traditional school design and instructional systems that focus on the "average learner" are fl...

Welcome to School DisruptEd, a ground-breaking podcast that challenges the flaws of the one-size-fits-all education model. Hosted by Toni Barton, this first of its' kind series features thought-provoking conversations with prominent educators, caregivers, and students to discuss the untold reality of our current schooling system and how it is failing students who don't "fit in a box" or are unique...