The Power of Presence: How Full Inclusion Transformed a Student with Significant Disabilities and His School Community

Presenter(s)

Event Details

Topic:

instruction, literacy & inclusion

Format:

lecture

Subject Level:

intermediate

Age Span:

preschool
kindergarten - grade 6

Target Audience:

AT specialist

educator
family member / caregiver

K-12 administration
occupational therapist
paraprofessional

special educator
speech language pathologist
teacher of the visually impaired

vision impairment specialist

Professional Development Credits

IACET CEUs:

.3 CEUs

ACVREP CEs:

2.5 CEs

Presentation Length: 2hrs 30mins

Location:

Atrium 6

Description:

This presentation highlights the journey of Bradley, as an example of a student with significant physical challenges, CVI, and complex communication needs, as he achieved full inclusion in general education. We will explore the practical strategies for students with multiple challenges that support both academic and community success. You will also hear how Bradley’s presence profoundly impacted his peers and their families, reshaping their understanding of inclusion. How did he keep pace with the class? How did classmates learn to use his auditory scanning system to connect and learn together? What shaped classroom culture rooted in empathy, adaptability, and shared growth? Through the voices of peers, families, and educators, we invite you to redefine what is possible in inclusive education.

Learning Outcomes:

As a result of this activity, participants will be able to:

• Identify 3 practical strategies that can be used to break down barriers to make inclusion meaningful academically and socially for children with multiple challenges.

• Discuss 2 real life examples of measurable goals for inclusion that will encourage the appropriate implementation, teaching methods and use of accommodations in general education.

• Explain 2 ways that individuals who face multiple challenges can positively impact the entire school and community.

Disclosures:

Linda Burkhart is self-employed with a small home consulting business and also sells some books and software activities. She sometimes demonstrate these activities at trainings, along with other software titles from a variety of vendors. Linda consults and presents trainings nationally and internationally on topics such as: Assistive Technology, multi-modal communication, AAC, and PODD (Pragmatic Organization Dynamic Display). She receives honorariums for workshops, trainings and consulting from the organization sponsoring each event.