Poet and educator Lucille Clifton said, "We cannot create what we cannot imagine." In order to live and lead for liberation, we must create space for dream design that translates to meaningful transformation for our students, our schools, our communities, and ourselves. When we root our imagination in love and justice, we increase the possibilities for collaborative action, loving accountability, and lasting freedom. In this workshop you will explore how to liberate your body, mind, and education community. Participants will walk away with a 7P Pathway to manifest their Freedom Dreams. Come as you are, stay open to discovery so we can get and stay FREE!
The Statewide System of Support Special Education Resource Leads collectively offer a wealth of resources on special education and continuous improvement, available on their websites or through free training opportunities. However, despite this abundance, there was no clear path for parents, students, or educators to access information related to the major components of the IEP. Based on research, field surveys, and partnerships we’ve created in the first year of the grant, the HQ IEP project has created an Individualized Education Program (IEP) Toolkit specifically for special education providers. This toolkit provides a centralized location for resources, focusing on critical components such as assessment, present levels, measurable goals, and supports and services aligned to California’s newly created state IEP template. Join us as we walk through our learning journey in bringing to life our hypothesized change idea, implementation and data we are collecting in hopes to increase transparency, consistency in messaging, training, and resources around the IEP journey. We hope to enhance knowledge, equity, and meaningful participation.
As local educational agencies (LEAs) across the state work toward creating access to a high school diploma for students with extensive support needs, many questions have surfaced regarding how to make this a reality. Join this presentation where you will learn about and leave with a new toolkit designed to help LEAs move through the steps and considerations necessary to create and continue to improve this new pathway to a high school diploma for students with disabilities who are eligible to take the California Alternate Assessments.
RC SELPA and RCOE began a collaborative relationship 8 years ago to support LEAs in Riverside County with their efforts to improve outcomes for students with disabilities. What started as a local partnership, has expanded to the state level, as RC SELPA serves as a lead SELPA agency through the SIL grant, and RCOE is a county office Geo Lead. Since the beginning of our partnership, we have developed tools to support the collaboration between the two separate organizations and worked diligently to create one system to support LEAs with Differentiated Assistance, Compliance and Improvement Monitoring, as well as LCAP and SPSA development. Come along with us, as we share the story of our journey on how we created a cohesive and collaborative system that brought together two separate organizations to create one countywide system of support dedicated to improving outcomes for students with disabilities.
Our Los Angeles County Office of Education (LACOE) EmbraceAbilities grant team is proud to be one of seven Special Education Resource Leads (SERLs) within the CA Statewide System of Support. Our project goal is to build capacity by providing support for systemic, continuous improvement to County Offices of Education (COEs) and Local Educational Agencies (LEAs) to include students with disabilities, more specifically, students with extensive support needs. During the first year of this grant project, we visited several sites within 17 COE-operated Regionalized Special Education Programs. We collected data via classroom walkthroughs, student, family, and staff interviews, and surveys to identify best practices and opportunities to support programs from a systems perspective. The Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching shared an article, Building A Culture Of Improvement In The Context Of External Accountability. In this article, they shared the idea of a team embracing the mantra of “possibly wrong and definitely incomplete.” Our team utilized this mantra in our journey with our SIL coach, Beverley Jenkins. We want to share how we developed a Process Map that laid the foundation for our team to determine best practices and opportunities in supporting students with extensive support needs.
Discover the power of the Improvement Data Center (IDC). Join us for an exclusive introduction to this essential resource, designed to help you track California's State Performance Plan Indicators for special education. The IDC offers a wealth of report options, enabling you to monitor critical indicators like Least Restrictive Environment, suspension rates, and timely assessments. With its user-friendly tools, you can create custom snapshot reports, providing a closer look at your LEA’s performance on these key indicators. Stay informed and take action with the IDC—your gateway to understanding and improving special education outcomes!
This presentation will explore an innovative improvement project developed through a collaborative partnership among the county library, county office of education and First 5 Commission. At its core, this initiative emphasizes creating a culture of safety that fosters effective teamwork and promotes community engagement.
This initiative embraces failure as a learning opportunity. By including members at all levels of project management, the team was empowered to take ownership of the work, integrate a variety of perspectives and encourage innovative approaches. We’ll discuss how data informs decision-making and enhances project outcomes.
In this session, we will address the essential need for trust across all partners, including the administration and leadership. By creating an environment where those engaged in the work feel supported, we can cultivate a more cohesive and empowered team. This collaborative approach not only enhances project success but also strengthens the overall community fabric.
Join us to discover strategies for tackling perfectionism by failing forward and fostering meaningful partnerships that drive impactful community service.
Join the High-Quality IEPs project for an immersive workshop exploring the 5 key components of educational benefit in the IEP. In this hands-on session, participants will dive into key elements: 1) assessment, 2) present levels, 3) identifying areas of need, 4) measurable goals, and 5) supports and services. Discover how each component interconnects to satisfy both procedural and substantive requirements in the IEP. Explore the newly developed High-Quality IEP Toolkit for Special Educators, collaborate with colleagues to overcome barriers, and leave empowered to unlock opportunities and growth for your students. This workshop is designed for active participation, including discussions, group work, and collaborative activities.
Systems improvement work, to include the Differentiated Assistance (DA) Process, Comprehensive Support & Improvement (CSI), and Additional Targeted Support & Improvement (ATSI) processes, may require data gathering related to the subgroups of English Learners (ELs) & Students with Disabilities (SWD). This session will center on using a resource guide to assist multidisciplinary teams, whether at the Local Education Agency (LEA) or school-based, with identifying and addressing key considerations for identifying root causes, analysis or systems, and how to enhance & improve positive outcomes for ELs and ELs with disabilities.
Christina Zavala is the SELPA Director for the Imperial County Special Education Local Plan Area (SELPA). Ms. Zavala holds 12 years of experience, with a background in School Psychology, working with students and families with disabilities. Ms. Zavala is passionate in advocating and... Read More →
Join the Project ARISE team as we share an intentional approach to developing and implementing local literacy plans through continuous improvement. This session showcases our work with a dedicated group of district and site leaders who are actively transforming their literacy initiatives. Participants will gain insights into the process defined in the CA State Literacy Plan which includes: 1.Creating a compelling literacy vision 2.Conducting comprehensive needs assessments and analyzing student data 3.Prioritizing identified needs effectively 4.Performing root cause analysis to target core issues related to meeting all students’ needs 5.Generating innovative change ideas for implementation 6.Executing Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) cycles to drive measurable improvements 5Participants will receive a toolkit of practical resources and strategies, along with real-world examples, to identify areas for improvement and effectively support all students in achieving impactful, data-driven literacy outcomes.Through real-world examples, we'll demonstrate how to identify areas for improvement and translate change ideas into action.
Using an operational framework consisting of Simon Sinek’s Golden Circle, Michael Fullan’s Coherence, the CA MTSS Framework, Malsowe’s Hierarchy of Needs and the CA EL Roadmap, the Delhi USD team refined the Local Control Accountability Plan to facilitate a comprehensive approach to improvement science. Delhi USD uses board transparency and accessibility, multiple tiers of community engagement, and regular collection and analysis of qualitative and quantitative data to ensure that their district priorities and LCAP address the needs of their community.
Participants will learn how the Delhi USD leadership and governance team leveraged an integrated approach to create a strong core instructional program that uses the principles of improvement science to establish true community schools that monitor progress through transparency and inclusive decision-making.
In this session, participants will explore strategies, tools, and best practices for increasing accessibility district-wide. Accessibility is more than just compliance; it’s about creating an inclusive environment where every student can thrive. Join us as we delve into the resources, materials, and tools for implementing Universal Design for Learning, Assistive Technology (AT), and Augmentative Alternative Communication (AAC) and how they can be effectively executed across all levels of your district. Participants will learn practical approaches to remove barriers, adapt teaching methods, and provide multiple means of engagement, representation, and expression. Through real-world examples and collaborative discussions, participants will leave with actionable insights and a toolkit filled with resources for transforming their district into a more accessible and inclusive community. Whether you’re just beginning this journey or looking to deepen your district’s commitment to accessibility, this session will provide the tools and inspiration needed to unlock the full potential of every learner.
Dive into the transformative world of qualitative data—often referred to as "street data"—in our enlightening session designed for educators who are eager to enhance their approach to data interpretation. This session will introduce you to the rich context and vibrant narratives that qualitative data offers, moving beyond numbers to capture the true essence of student experiences and community voices. By better understanding our student experiences, LEAs are better prepared to address inequities and barriers for student success.
Hear from Local Educational Agencies (LEAs) that have successfully integrated qualitative data into their Continuous Improvement and Monitoring (CIM) process, enabling them to make informed decisions that foster equity and student engagement. Engage actively in a real-world vignette with your colleagues.
By the end of this session, you will have a better understanding of the value of qualitative data and learn about different processes to gather and apply it in your own context. Join us and learn how to unlock the hidden stories that can revolutionize educational outcomes!
This workshop provides educators with the mindset and strategies needed to create truly inclusive learning environments where all students feel a sense of rightful presence and belonging. Participants will explore the impact of ableism in educational settings, learn how to be effective allies to students with disabilities, and discover practical methods for fostering a culture of inclusion and belonging within their circle of influence. Session Outcomes: - Increased awareness and understanding of ableism and its impact on students with disabilities. - Enhanced ability to identify and address barriers to inclusion in educational settings. - Development of practical strategies for creating accessible and inclusive learning environments. - Strengthened skills in advocating for the rights and needs of students with disabilities. Improved capacity to cultivate a sense of belonging among all students, regardless of ability or background.
Discover how Universal Design for Learning (UDL) can revolutionize your approach to inclusive education. This session will introduce the core principles of UDL as outlined in the 3.0 Guidelines and share a district's successful journey in implementing UDL strategies. Learn about practical changes and achievements that have fostered a more inclusive learning environment. Engage with Open Access resources, including a site readiness tool and FlipKits, which offer hands-on experience and practical application of UDL principles. By the end of this session, you will be equipped with actionable steps and inspired to advance your own UDL implementation. Join us to enhance accessibility and boost student success.
This session presents an illuminating case study of two schools that successfully implemented a new foundational reading skills curriculum through disciplined, data-driven approaches. We'll explore how these schools leveraged Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) cycles to refine their implementation strategy and achieve measurable results. Key focus areas include: 1. Designing effective feedback loops to gather real-time insights from teachers 2. Conducting targeted walk-throughs to observe curriculum in action 3. Providing tailored professional development and coaching to support teachers adapting to new instructional methods 4. Using data to inform iterative improvements throughout the pilot process Participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of how to: - Structure a curriculum pilot for maximum impact - Create and utilize feedback mechanisms that drive continuous improvement - Balance support and evaluation during the implementation phase - Make data-informed decisions to refine curriculum integration By the session's end, attendees will have a practical blueprint for piloting curricula in their context to ensure that it is viable for all students. You'll be equipped with essential questions to guide your process, tools for gathering and analyzing feedback, and strategies for documenting progress throughout your pilot journey.
“Those closest to the problem are often the closest to the solution but furthest from the resources and power.” The CIM team at Palmdale Aerospace Academy, led by Chris Riley, Director of Special Education Services, worked to counter this common scenario by centering student and parent voice in their CIM process. Hear their story and gather strategies for eliciting student and family voice through the use of empathy interviews and survey data. Participants will learn how TPAA used this data to gain a deeper understanding of the root causes of chronic absenteeism for students with disabilities within their LEA.
Grant Coordinator, SELPA System Improvement Leads Project
Ashley MacGavin has worked in the field of special education for over 10 years and currently serves in the role of Grant Coordinator at Riverside County SELPA in Perris, CA. She holds a Master’s Degree in Education and an Administrative Services Credential, Education Specialist... Read More →
This presentation examines the crucial path from literacy screening to effective intervention, prompting educators to evaluate their current practices. You will gain insights and strategies for creating a more equitable and inclusive approach to process refinement. We'll explore strategies for incorporating diverse voices from all educational partners, ensuring that all perspectives are valued and considered. Our session features three compelling case studies: a district-wide initiative, a court and community school program, and a K-12 counseling-enhanced program. Each narrative illustrates how to customize screening processes to address the specific needs of diverse student groups. These real-world examples demonstrate the adaptability of effective screening-to-intervention systems across various educational contexts. Participants will learn practical tools and strategies for creating inclusive feedback loops in their educational settings, as well as how to address potential challenges. By the end of the session, they will receive sample process maps and a comprehensive toolkit to develop or improve their own screening and intervening process.
This session will dive into the transformative journey of implementing inclusive practices, drawing on real-world experiences and challenges faced by secondary educators and administrators, as well as before/after school care providers. We’ll explore powerful stories from the field, showcasing the barriers encountered, the successes achieved, and the ongoing journey towards creating inclusive environments.
Based on the identified needs of educators that work with students with disabilities, specialized training sessions were developed and delivered, focusing on strategies like Co-Teaching, Universal Design for Learning (UDL), and understanding disabilities. In this session, we will listen to real stories, highlight key points and valuable learnings from these training sessions, providing insights into how these approaches can be effectively integrated into diverse educational settings.
Join us to hear firsthand accounts of how inclusion has been reimagined in various contexts, and take away practical strategies that can be applied in your own practice.
Join us for a session dedicated to the journey of aligning improvement efforts for meaningful, sustainable change in education. In a time when many district initiatives falter, discover some essential elements that foster significant and lasting transformation.
Hear real-life examples from Local Educational Agencies (LEAs) that have successfully tackled disproportionality. They will share their stories around providing strong superintendent vision and support, ensuring intentional and active involvement of educational partners (including general education colleagues and family members), and addressing contributing factors through targeted improvements for specific groups to create broader system-wide impacts. Learn about strategies these LEAs employed to identify and address contributing factors, and how aligning efforts can create and sustain a culture of continuous growth and equitable student outcomes.
Don't miss this opportunity to better champion equity and excellence in our schools!
This presentation explores how Universal Design for Learning (UDL) in Early Childhood promotes learner agency that is purposeful and reflective, resourceful and authentic, and strategic and action-oriented. By designing inclusive environments that support diverse learning needs, UDL fosters agency that empowers children to make choices, take initiative, and shape their own learning experiences. Even in preschool, fostering learner agency helps young learners develop independence, critical thinking, and confidence. By offering opportunities for decision-making and problem-solving, teachers can cultivate a sense of ownership in the classroom, encouraging children to be active participants in their learning journey.Through flexible teaching methods and diverse learning materials, UDL supports the needs of every child, including those with different learning styles, abilities, and backgrounds.In this presentation, we will explore practical strategies to integrate UDL principles and promote learner agency in early childhood settings. Participants will walk away with actionable ideas on how to design learning environments that celebrate each child’s unique potential, offering choice and flexibility while minimizing barriers.
Friday December 13, 2024 1:30pm - 2:45pm PST
Ballroom B
Drive systems change in education. This session will equip participants with practical tools and strategies to leverage AI for creating more inclusive, adaptable learning environments. By focusing on reducing barriers, educators can ensure that all students, regardless of their abilities, have equitable opportunities to engage and succeed. Join us to discover how AI and UDL can work together to transform educational practices and foster a culture of continuous improvement.
