Special Ed Rising; No Parent Left Behind

summary In this conversation, Chris Higgins shares his journey as a filmmaker and writer, emphasizing the importance of accessibility in technology and storytelling. He discusses his film 'Access,' which profiles Corey Joseph, a user of assistive technology, and highlights the need for empathy and understanding in creating inclusive designs. The conversation explores the challenges of navigating c...

In this conversation, Taylor Winnett shares her reflections on competing in the Paralympics, and the emotional journey of balancing high expectations with the realities of performance. She discusses her future plans, including moving to Texas, aspirations for world championships, and the possibility of motherhood. Taylor also expresses her desire to coach and the importance of maintaining a positi...

keywords music education, special education, parental involvement, inclusivity, advocacy, misconceptions, music therapy, child development, songwriting, creativity, parent-teacher relationships, music education, child development, emotional regulation, musical exploration, parenting tips, music in schools, child psychology, music therapy, family bonding summary In this conversation, Giuliana Conti...

In this episode I’m talking about a critical issue: inequality in employment for people with disabilities.  Despite advancements in diversity and inclusion, millions of disabled individuals around the world still face enormous challenges when it comes to finding and maintaining employment. In today’s episode, I want to dive into why this problem persists, what’s being done about it, and how w...

keywords AI, special education, learning differences, assistive technology, skill development, equity in education, communication tools, educational technology, AI, special needs, education, Goblin Tools, executive functioning, note-taking apps, communication, technology, learning support, transition to adulthood summary This conversation explores the intersection of AI and special education, focu...

keywords disability, advocacy, accessibility, inclusion, mental health, representation, family dynamics, self-advocacy, education, awareness summary In this conversation, Kimberly shares her personal journey living with a disability, emphasizing the importance of advocacy, accessibility, and the need for awareness and education. She discusses her family dynamics, the role of siblings, and the chal...

This episode is a huge milestone – it’s my 100th. Join me as I reflect on this adventure and talk about what's to come!

In this episode I’ll be diving into a key component of inclusive education that’s transforming classrooms: Universal Design for Learning, or UDL, and how flexible learning spaces are making education more accessible for all students. Whether you're a teacher, administrator, or parent, you'll find valuable insights into how these strategies can foster a more inclusive and engaging learning environm...

summary Clarissa discusses her experience as a parent of a child with ARID1B-related disorder and the challenges they face. She emphasizes the importance of routine and structure for children with special needs and the need for parents to take care of themselves. Clarissa also talks about the Foundation for ARID1B Research (FAR) and their efforts to raise money for research into potential treatmen...

This episode is part 2 of my two part interview with Lauren Enders Gonzales, MA, CCC-SLP.  This time we will be diving deeper into AAC; how to use it, what options are available, apps and more. keywords AAC, augmentative communication, technology, misconceptions, assessments, innovations, AI, speech therapy, communication devices, education summary In this engaging conversation, Mark and Laur...

In this episode I’m speaking with Dr. Giuliana Conti.  Giuliana is Director of Music Workshop's Education & Equity.  Music Workshop is a nonprofit organization that creates high-quality, culturally responsive music programming for teachers to use in their classrooms and professional development to further their own learning. summary The conversation explores the importance of startin...

*TRIGGER WARNING : This episode can be raw and descriptive at times. For anyone who might be upset by conversations about the specifics of breast surgery and reconstruction I just want you to be aware. Kayla expresses herself in a very frank, positive and humorous way so hopefully you will be able to receive her story as a celebration of the human spirit under very difficult conditions and feel em...

In this episode I’ll be taking a look at the impressive level of disability awareness and the efforts of the Paris Olympic Committee to improve accessibility at this year’s games.

In this episode I’ll be speaking about the rise of inclusion, the importance of its role in educating all children and my reflections on working in a private, state-supported school intended to meet the needs of the students with various disabilities. 

In this episode I’ll be speaking with Para-Olympian Swimmer, Taylor Winnett.  Taylor was America’s most decorated athlete at the 2023 Parapan American Games after medaling in 6 individual and 1 relay events in Paralympic Swimming, the Parapan American Games Record Holder in the Women’s S10 100m Butterfly, the American Record holder in the Women’s S10 50m Backstroke, and a National Team Member...

In this episode I’ll be speaking about AAC (Alternative and Augmentative Communication) with Lauren Enders Gonzales, MA, CCC-SLP.  Lauren is a licensed and certified speech-language pathologist (SLP) with 27 years of experience. Working as an SLP and Assistive Technology Consultant in K-12 school programs, she has developed expertise in Assistive Technology and Augmentative and Alternative Co...

In this episode I’ll be speaking about sensory friendly shopping, how to find establishments near you and what you can do to influence businesses to become sensory friendly. https://specialedrising.com/

In this episode I’ll be speaking with Andrew Arboe.  Andrew is a self-advocate with a professional work background consisting of public school, private school, nonprofits, and online programs. Andrew is also certified through the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards’ Autism Certification since August 14th, 2023. His current workplaces include FOCUS Center fo...

In this episode I’ll be speaking about recent developments in assistive technology.  What is out there now and promising tech for the future.

In this episode I’m speaking about the recent Supreme Court decision to overturn the bump stock ban.  I will reflect on my time as a teacher dealing with lockdowns and the auspice of being a victim of a mass school shooting and my feelings on what this decision by the court means for us as a nation. 

In this episode I’ll be speaking with Elysia Everett, Founder and CEO of Friendly Like Me, Inc.  She and co-founder,  Dave Jensen , created Friendly Like Me to improve accessibility in public places and to make accessibility information easier to find—so more people can take part. FLM connects individuals with “friendly” places that can accommodate the unique needs of people living with...

In this episode I’ll be speaking with Elizabeth Webster. Elizabeth is a fine artist, licensed professional counselor and registered art therapist living in Michigan. She earned a bachelor's in fine art at Alma College and earned a dual Masters of Arts in Clinical Counseling with a specialization in Art Therapy from Wayne State University. She currently provides therapy, clinical supervision, consu...

In this episode I’ll be speaking with Fred Hobbs, Director of Public Relations for Imagine, Colorado for over 18 years.  Imagine! was established in 1963 and provides services designed to incorporate people with developmental, cognitive, and physical challenges into the fabric of their communities. Services include educational and therapeutic services, job training and placement, recreation a...

The BrainWorx Method  has helped thousands of adults and children overcome the challenges of ADHD, autism, sensory disorder and much more, naturally, for over 20 years; reducing anxiety, and fostering focus, learning and joy. In this episode I’ll be speaking with Alma Galvan, founder of Brainworx, helping children, and even adults, overcome the effects of ADD, ADHD, and other conditions that...

In this episode I’ll define parent training and how it can be beneficial to you, as well as offer 5 tips from parent training to help you navigate the world of exceptional needs.