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Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education

@mcie.org
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Partner with us to transform education for each and every learner. Listen to our podcast, Think Inclusive, to learn more about inclusive practices. mcie.org

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Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education @mcie.org · 03/07/2026
In the latest Think Inclusive episode, Ryan Honick talks with Tim Villegas about his fight against rideshare discrimination toward service dog users, a fight that led to a DOJ lawsuit. His point: compliance on paper isn't the same as follow-through. Listen: go.mcie.org/DSdIba
Image of Ryan and his dog Lovey
Think Inclusive logo
Text: Fighting to Stop Fighting: What Keeps Advocates Like Ryan Honick Going?
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Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education @mcie.org · 22/06/2026
Perfection isn't the bar. Progress is. Words worth holding onto this #MotivationMonday #InclusiveEducation #EveryLearnerBelongs
Quote graphic with a dark gradient background. White text reads: "It's not perfect anywhere. And that shouldn't be getting in the way of us trying to do better for kids in inclusive settings." Attribution reads: Cathi Davis, Principal of Ruby Bridges Elementary School. The Think Inclusive logo appears at the bottom center.
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Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education @mcie.org · 08/06/2026
Once you dive into this work, there's really no going back.Once you dive into this work, there's really no going back. Dr. Jennifer Spencer-Iiams | Think Inclusive Ep. 1322 Listen: go.mcie.org/bML84y
Graphic quote: Once you dive into this work, there's really no going back.
With Think Inclusive logo
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Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education @mcie.org · 05/06/2026
Last week on Think Inclusive: TerpsEXCEED at UMD gives students with intellectual disability a college experience — classes, jobs, and community. Hear from staff, peer mentors, and students. go.mcie.org/1331
Tim and members of the Terps Exceed team looking at the camera smiling, standing on a college campus. Tim and people he is interviewing at a table with microphones. Tim and people he is interviewing at a table with microphones. A college classroom filled with students.
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Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education @mcie.org · 01/06/2026
The people pushing back on inclusion don't have more training or wisdom than you do. Jennifer Gonzalez, Cult of Pedagogy | Think Inclusive Ep. 1303 go.mcie.org/lUIoWw
Graphic quote: Keep going. The people listening have so much training, wisdom, and experience—so much more than the people trying to push back on these practices.
Think Inclusive logo
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Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education @mcie.org · 27/05/2026
ICYMI: Emily Ladau joined Think Inclusive to talk about why advocacy includes rest. Speak up when you can. Take a break when you need to. The work will still be here. Find the full episode at go.mcie.org/DrcvSq
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Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education @mcie.org · 21/05/2026
If you've been listening to Think Inclusive for a while, you know the Mystery Question is coming. Leah Kelley and Kari Gustafson sat down with Tim to talk about why play matters in neurodiverse and inclusive settings. Stick around for the end. Watch or listen at go.mcie.org/VTZ7zV
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Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education @mcie.org · 18/05/2026
This Motivation Monday, we're thinking about what it really takes to shift mindset. Lisa Mihalich Quinn, founder of Reach Every Voice, is one of many speakers joining us at the 2026 Summer Institute, June 23–24. Register at go.mcie.org/register-2026
Graphic quote 
But when you find people who have that creativity and willingness to take a risk or a chance and say, “What if? What if we try this? What if we try that?”—that’s when the magic happens.
Lisa Quinn
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Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education @mcie.org · 07/05/2026
Tomorrow! Carolyn and Tim are presenting "Belonging by Design: A District Systems-Change Case Study" at the SIP 5th Annual Virtual Conference. May 8 • 10:30 a.m. PST • Free What does it really take to redesign a district, so every student belongs? Join us: bit.ly/sipcon2026
Promotional graphic for the Supporting Innovative Practices 5th Annual Virtual Conference. Headshots of Carolyn Teigland and Tim Villegas from the Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education. Text reads "We're Presenting! Belonging by Design: A District Systems-Change Case Study. May 8th, 10:30 a.m. PST." Includes a QR code to register at bit.ly/sipcon2026 and the hashtag #SIPCON2026.
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Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education @mcie.org · 04/05/2026
What gives you hope right now? Margo Gross has an answer. These words are a great reminder on #MotivationMonday. Listen to her episode at mcie.org or wherever you get your podcasts. go.mcie.org/1320 #InclusionMonday #ThinkInclusive #MCIE

Quote graphic with white text on a dark gradient background. The quote reads: "What brings me hope right now is this belief that there is enough humanity left to save where we are as a society—the belief in people.  I still have people around me who are humble, gracious, kind, who want to see everyone viewed through a human lens and want all people to be well and thriving." Attribution below reads: Margo Gross, Educator, Author, and Speaker. The Think Inclusive logo appears at the bottom.
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Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education @mcie.org · 01/05/2026
Join us June 23-24 at the Westin BWI for the 2026 Summer Institute: Breaking Barriers for Authentic Inclusion! Collaborate with educators on building inclusive systems. Register now: $400 MD, $500 out-of-state. #InclusiveEducation
go.mcie.org
Breaking Barriers for Authentic Inclusion | MCIE
MCIE Summer Institute 2026 Breaking Barriers for Authentic Inclusion June 23–24, 2026 Westin Baltimore Washington Airport – BWI Linthicum Heights, Maryland The MCIE Summer Institute is a two‑day, in‑person learning experience for district and school...
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Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education @mcie.org · 27/04/2026
Samuel Habib reminds us of the power of disabled people telling their stories. Listen to this episode about The Ride Ahead and building communities where everyone belongs at mcie.org or wherever you get your podcasts. go.mcie.org/1301 #InclusionMonday #MotivationMonday
Quote graphic with MCIE logo and text: Disabled people should have their voices heard and we should be able to tell our own stories. Samuel Habib
College student, Filmmaker, and Disability Rights Advocate
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Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education @mcie.org · 22/04/2026
In case you missed this episode: Sandra McElwee advocated for her son Sean's right to inclusive education in the 1990s. She shares the strategies that worked and why belonging empowers learning. Learn more: go.mcie.org/1329
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Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education @mcie.org · 20/04/2026
A powerful reminder from Jack Pearpoint on #MotivationMonday. Listen to his episode on person-centered planning, radical listening, and building communities where everybody belongs at mcie.org or wherever you get your podcasts. go.mcie.org/1304 #InclusionMonday
Graphic with quote: We need to rebuild our culture to recognize each other, where everybody belongs. No exceptions. Everybody belongs. Jack Pearpoint
Co‑creator of MAPS, PATH, and Circle of Friends
With Think Inclusive logo
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Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education @mcie.org · 17/04/2026
Access isn't something we grant. It's something people deserve. Earlier this season, Margo Gross talked with Think Inclusive about belonging, equity, and how to keep doing this work when the words themselves have become controversial. Listen here: go.mcie.org/1320
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Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education @mcie.org · 16/04/2026
In case you missed last week's episode: Are teachers the secret to inclusive systems change?  A New Jersey school increased LRE from 50% to 60% in one year through a teacher-led effort. Real change starts on the front lines. Watch: go.mcie.org/1328
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Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education @mcie.org · 13/04/2026
Colleen McCoy-Cejka reminds us that building inclusive schools is work we all share. Listen to her episode on inclusive education in faith-based schools at go.mcie.org/1323 or wherever you get your podcasts.  #InclusionMonday #MotivationMonday
Graphic quote with MCIE logo and text: Inclusion is everyone's responsibility.
Colleen McCoy-Cejka 
Co-founder of Inclusion Solutions
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Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education @mcie.org · 10/04/2026
Are teachers the key to inclusive change? Last spring, NJ saw LRE jump from 50% to 60%, led by teachers! It's proof: real change starts on the front lines. How is your team championing inclusion? 💪 Watch the episode here: youtu.be/czJ8MeS41Us
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Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education @mcie.org · 08/04/2026
Ever wondered what happens when teachers get autonomy, time to collaborate, and coaching support? At W-L High School, Arlington, VA, co-planning & co-teaching are thriving! Teachers choose feedback, guided by indicators, not rules. This is systems change in action! 🌟 go.mcie.org/W-L-High
Images of teachers working with each other during professional development and text: When Schools Commit to Co-Teaching and Planning. Inside W-L High School's Inclusive Practices Journey.
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Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education @mcie.org · 08/04/2026
Ever thought about how schools can truly embrace disability justice? 🎓💬 Check out this convo between Tim Villegas and Dom Kelly on Think Inclusive! Dom shares insights on moving past compliance to create spaces where every student's voice matters.  Listen here 🎧
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Disability Justice: A Conversation with Dom Kelly
Join Tim Villegas and Dom Kelly as they explore the crucial topic of disability justice in schools.
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Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education @mcie.org · 03/04/2026
Did you catch this episode? Jennifer Gonzalez gets real about teaching through turbulent times, putting safety first, building real (not performative) inclusion, and finding allies when the news feels heavy. Listen here: 
go.mcie.org
Navigating Political Challenges in Education—Advice from Jennifer Gonzalez ~ 1303
Jennifer Gonzalez shares practical advice for educators facing political challenges in schools, offering strategies to stay focused on inclusive and effective teaching.
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Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education @mcie.org · 31/03/2026
How do you move from believing in inclusion to building the systems that make it happen? District 109 worked with MCIE to deepen their approach to specially designed instruction and collaborative planning. See what changed: go.mcie.org/D109
Teal graphic with images of educators from District 109 in Deerfield, IL working together holding pieces of paper. Colorful icon around image. Text: An Approach to Inclusive Instructional Planning
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Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education @mcie.org · 30/03/2026
Get your week started with a reminder of why UDL is so rigorous and so impactful for students. Listen now: 🎧 go.mcie.org/1326
Quote graphic with MCIE logo and text: UDL is about building learner agency. Helping students understand how they learn, their goals, their preferences. UDL is incredibly rigorous because it requires thinking about representation, engagement, bias, identity, collaboration, and belonging all at once.
Megan Ohlssen
Executive Director, Anti-AbleistED
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Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education @mcie.org · 23/03/2026
Starting the week with gratitude for everyone fighting the good fight. Your work matters more than you know. mcie.org/think-inclusive
Praise for Tim's inclusive work and commitment to equity — Dr. Priya Lalvani, Professor of Disability Studies. Text reads: Thank you for thinking inclusive, being inclusive, and fighting the good fight! Tim—you rock! It was a pleasure chatting with you on the podcast; your insights are spot on, and your commitment to inclusivity and equity is so needed!
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Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education @mcie.org · 20/03/2026
Audrey and Jeremy, co-hosts of The Audrey and Jeremy Show, share their journey as advocates and podcasters fighting for disability rights and inclusion. Their message is clear: everyone deserves to belong. Listen here:
go.mcie.org
Down Syndrome Advocacy in Action: Lessons from Audrey and Jeremy ~ 1311
Audrey and Jeremy share their inspiring journey as advocates for inclusion and disability rights, from speaking up in Washington to hosting a podcast that educates and empowers. Learn lessons on belonging, advocacy, and creating inclusive schools.
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Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education @mcie.org · 19/03/2026
Equity mindedness isn't just identifying the problem — it's asking: what is MY role in perpetuating it? Such a fantastic conversation with Megan Ohlssen (from Anti Ableist ED) about belonging. 🎧 Full episode: go.mcie.org/1326
podcast covert art: beyond welcome: what real belonging looks like in schools with Megan Ohlssen
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Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education @mcie.org · 10/03/2026
How do we design schools where everyone truly belongs? Cathi Davis, principal of Ruby Bridges Elementary, challenges us to rethink power dynamics that determine who gets to belong and how to design for authentic belonging. Find the episode here:
go.mcie.org
Cathi Davis on Creating Schools Where Every Learner Belongs ~ 1302
Discover how Ruby Bridges Elementary is redefining inclusion by designing for belonging and centering student voice, with insights from principal Cathi Davis.
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Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education @mcie.org · 09/03/2026
Feeling low? Tune into the Think Inclusive podcast for a dose of hope and community. Discover what listeners love at mcie.org/think-inclusive. Big thanks to Kristin for empowering inclusive educators! #InclusiveEducation
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Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education @mcie.org · 04/03/2026
Did you catch last week's episode? Colleen McCoy-Cejka and Crystal Brooks discuss how inclusion starts with strong Tier 1 instruction and why misunderstanding inclusion can lead to separation instead of belonging. Watch and listen here: go.mcie.org/1323
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Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education @mcie.org · 04/03/2026
When you listen to Think Inclusive, you're part of a community championing inclusion. Dr. Shelley Moore on what keeps her coming back to these conversations. Watch or listen at mcie.org/think-inclusive, on YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.
Image Quote: "I have been fortunate enough to be on two episodes and always looks forward to chatting with Tim. It feels like we are long-lost friends reunited over social justice! It always feels good to be reminded that we are not doing this work alone." - Dr. Shelley Moore, inclusive education researcher, teacher, consultant, and storyteller
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Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education @mcie.org · 03/03/2026
Just stop it. Stop saying the R-word. It's not edgy. It's not funny. It's dehumanizing.
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Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education @mcie.org · 02/03/2026
For Read Across America Day, here's a clip from Tim's conversation with Sharon Draper about the nuances of creating characters like Melody from her 'Out of My Mind' book series. Listen to the full episode: go.mcie.org/1125
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Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education @mcie.org · 28/02/2026
Rigor isn't the enemy of inclusion! Dive deep into how student-centered, engaging classrooms balance both. Tune in with Colleen McCoy-Cejka & Crystal Brooks as they tackle school challenges. Listen now: go.mcie.org/1323 #EducationMatters
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Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education @mcie.org · 28/02/2026
Is inclusion misunderstood? 🤔 Dive into our latest episode with Colleen McCoy-Cejka and Crystal Brooks as they unpack how definitions may divide us instead of bringing us together. #InclusionMatters Listen here: go.mcie.org/1323
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Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education @mcie.org · 25/02/2026
"Educators [can] fundamentally alter a child's life trajectory. Not just their educational journey, but their life trajectory, whether or not they will be able to leave high school and be a contributing member of society." Learn more: go.mcie.org/CT01
Quote image: "It's just an example of the power that educators have to fundamentally alter a child's life trajectory. Not just their educational journey, but their life trajectory, whether or not they will be able to leave high school and be a contributing member of society."
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Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education @mcie.org · 25/02/2026
How can we better support sexual health education for youth with intellectual and developmental disabilities? Project SHINE's Connie Senior and Breon Williams share insights on this Think Inclusive episode:
go.mcie.org
Empowering Youth with Disabilities Through Sexual Health Education ~ 1220
Watch the episode now on YouTube. Empowering Youth with Disabilities Through Sexual | RSS.com Show Notes About the Guest(s): Connie Senior is an Assistant Director and Project Manager for Project SHINE at YAI. She has over 27 years of experience in neurodevelopmental disabilities and mental health. With extensive experience advocating for and supporting individuals with […]
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Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education @mcie.org · 20/02/2026
Inclusion goes beyond just placing students with disabilities in gen ed classrooms. It means transforming how we teach. Discover what true inclusive education looks like in secondary schools with Dr. Jennifer Spencer-Iiams. 🏫✨ Listen here: go.mcie.org/1322
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Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education @mcie.org · 18/02/2026
Did you catch this episode last week? Dr. Emily Affolter reminds us: culturally responsive teaching isn't about perfection—it's about progress. Focus on where you can start today. Small steps matter. Listen here: go.mcie.org/1321
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Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education @mcie.org · 17/02/2026
"Parents don’t want it to be a fight. They experience it as battle fatigue. They are tired, they are exhausted, they’ve had to take time off work." Dr. Priya Lalvani discusses the battle fatigue families experience during the fight for inclusive education:
go.mcie.org
Battle Fatigue: The Fight for Inclusive Education with Dr. Priya Lalvani ~ 1224
Watch the episode now on YouTube. Battle Fatigue: The Fight for Inclusive Education | RSS.com Show Notes About the Guest(s): Dr. Priya Lalvani is a professor of Disability Studies at Montclair State University, where she also coordinates inclusive education graduate programs. Holding a PhD in developmental psychology from CUNY and a Master of Arts in […]
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Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education @mcie.org · 16/02/2026
It's always an insightful conversation when Dr. Shelley Moore stops by. On the pod, she and Tim Villegas discuss how educators can embrace inclusivity and teamwork in schools. Listen here:
go.mcie.org
Navigating Change in Education: A Conversation with Dr. Shelley Moore ~ 1228
Watch the episode on YouTube. Navigating Change in Education: A Conversation wit | RSS.com Show Notes About the Guest(s): Dr. Shelley Moore is a renowned inclusive education researcher, teacher consultant, and storyteller based in British Columbia, Canada. Shelley holds a Special Education undergraduate degree from the University of Alberta, a Master’s from Simon Fraser University, […]
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Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education @mcie.org · 15/02/2026
Erik Carter warns belonging is at risk of becoming an empty buzzword. He outlines ten research-based dimensions that go beyond inclusion—being invited, welcomed, known, accepted, and loved. Listen here:
go.mcie.org
Uncover the Power of Belonging in Inclusive Education with Erik Carter ~ 1204
Uncover the Power of Belonging in Inclusive Educat | RSS.com Show Notes About the Guest(s): Erik Carter serves as Executive Director of the Baylor Center for Developmental Disabilities, which aims to promote the thriving of people with disabilities and their families. He joined the Baylor faculty in 2023. His research and writing focus on principle-driven […]
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Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education @mcie.org · 14/02/2026
Dr. Andrew Goff stopped by to discuss why classrooms should be places of love and growth for all children. Sharing examples from his years in education, he explores the challenges and triumphs of creating a nurturing learning environment. Listen here: go.mcie.org/1119
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Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education @mcie.org · 13/02/2026
Ever felt like some spaces in your work are 'off-limits'? 🤔 It's time to challenge those boundaries. Every system is connected, and stepping into new realms can lead to growth and change. Listen to our conversation with Dr. Emily Affolter here: go.mcie.org/1321
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Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education @mcie.org · 13/02/2026
Culturally responsive teaching isn’t about perfection—it's about progress. Focus on where you can start today. Small steps matter. What's one thing you're improving? Listen to the full conversation with Dr. Emily Affolter here: go.mcie.org/1321
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Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education @mcie.org · 12/02/2026
Fellow podcasters Audrey and Jeremy join Tim Villegas to discuss their journey as advocates, podcasters, and friends. Their message is clear: everyone deserves to belong and be valued. Hear their story: go.mcie.org/1311
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Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education @mcie.org · 12/02/2026
"Figure out what's within your capacity right now—and do that." Emily Ladau, activist, writer, and speaker, shares insights about advocating during challenging times. Listen or watch: go.mcie.org/1240
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Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education @mcie.org · 11/02/2026
What does it take to build inclusive schools for students with learning differences? Riley Mulcahy shares his journey with dyslexia and how storytelling drives his mission to create inclusive educational environments. Listen now: go.mcie.org/1236
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Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education @mcie.org · 11/02/2026
"Education of students with disabilities is a right, but it's also been really messy..." Jordyn Zimmerman, educator, disability advocate, and accessibility innovator, shares their journey from segregation to meaningful inclusion in schools. Listen now: go.mcie.org/1310
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Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education @mcie.org · 10/02/2026
"I became a teacher because I felt I had something to bring to the table for Deaf students—because I'm Deaf myself and I also love teaching." On the pod, Rachel Zemach talks about inclusion, identity, and tailored education for Deaf students. Learn more: go.mcie.org/1241
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Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education @mcie.org · 09/02/2026
How can AI empower advocacy? Seasoned educator Charmaine Thaner shares insights about the intersection of artificial intelligence and inclusive education on this episode of Think Inclusive. Listen now: go.mcie.org/XotECR
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