Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging Series (2024-2025)

How we respond to children, and what we say about children, matters. The ways in which difference shows up in our classroom is both an opportunity for learning and a challenge for us to work through. In this session, we will explore how complex learners show up in our school communities, and will practice working through strength-based perspectives, as well as developing learning opportunities that embrace differences. Additionally, participants will continue to consider inclusive literacy practices as discussed in the keynote (appropriate for all content areas). In this urgent and vital workshop, participants will delve into critical considerations to assess a student at risk of referral to special education and make equitable and informed decisions. The session will cover legal requirements, characteristics of second language acquisition, clinical markers of disabilities, cultural dynamics, social-emotional resilience, optimal learning environments, effective interventions, and comprehensive assessment practices.