When a student is struggling, “they need a small group” can sound like the right solution, but too often, it’s code for removal and exclusion. In this episode, Julie and Kristie unpack the common trap of equating support with separation and show how small group instruction can, and should, happen within general education. You’ll learn how to shift from pull-out thinking to inclusive design using flexible grouping, choice, and intentional planning. Download the free resource: Let’s Rethink What Small Group Really Means at inclusiveschooling.com/download73.
Jul 14
20 min
Imagine someone supporting you all day—deciding when to step in, what to say, and how close to stand. In this episode, Kristie and Julie explore how even well-intentioned help can become intrusive, overwhelming, or counterproductive for students. You'll learn how to evaluate support through the lens of dignity, autonomy, and the true purpose of inclusion. Download the 30 Reflection Questions at inclusiveschooling.com/download72.
Jun 16
17 min
Praise might feel positive—but it can actually backfire. In this episode, Julie and Kristie dig into why overpraising can reduce motivation, damage trust, and even increase student anxiety. You’ll walk away with seven key shifts educators can make to support authentic, internal motivation in every learner. Download the Praise Reframe Guide at inclusiveschooling.com/download71.
May 26
14 min
What if we’ve misunderstood what engagement really looks like? In this powerful episode, Kristie and Julie unpack why rest, quiet moments, and nonverbal participation are all valid—and vital—ways students engage with learning. You’ll hear how reframing “doing nothing” can create more equitable classrooms for neurodivergent and disabled learners. Get the reframing language guide at inclusiveschooling.com/download70.
Apr 28
23 min
Is “doing hard things” really the right benchmark for students with disabilities? In this episode, Julie and Kristie challenge the idea that completing unpreferred tasks is an appropriate or meaningful IEP goal. They explore what makes a goal truly inclusive, and offer guidance on how to write goals that support autonomy, dignity, and real-world relevance. Download the 5 Questions to Test IEP Goals at inclusiveschooling.com/download69.
Apr 14
17 min
You say you’re inclusive—but what does your system actually show? In this special episode, Julie and Kristie unpack seven clear indicators that reveal whether a school is truly inclusive or just aspiring to be, from unclear definitions to practices that unintentionally exclude students. You’ll walk away with practical ways to spot misalignment and take immediate steps toward meaningful, system-wide change. Register for The Way Wednesdays Book Club and get the Facilitator’s Guide and Self-Study Guide at https://www.inclusiveschooling.com/book-club.
Apr 7
24 min
Too often, what looks like an inclusive schedule on paper falls apart in practice. In this episode, Kristie and Julie explain the common traps teams fall into when creating student schedules—and how to build ones that truly support belonging and participation. You’ll learn how to spot “support-based scheduling” and replace it with a plan that centers access, collaboration, and student needs. Get the Inclusive System Scheduling Process at inclusiveschooling.com/download68.
Mar 31
20 min
In this episode, Julie and Kristie reveal the exact words school leaders can use to promote inclusion with clarity, confidence, and compassion. From responding to resistance to inspiring buy-in, you'll get ready-to-use scripts and strategies for navigating tough conversations about inclusive practices. Whether you’re a principal, coach, or advocate, you’ll leave feeling prepared to lead with language that unites. Download the free guide at inclusiveschooling.com/download67.
Mar 17
17 min
Before you can have trust, share a classroom, or divide lessons, you have to build a relationship. In this episode, Kristie and Julie explore what makes co-teaching work—from shared routines to honest conversations—and why relational trust is the foundation of everything. You’ll get practical ways to deepen connection with your co-teacher, whether you’re starting fresh or have worked together for years. Download the free guide: 101 Ways to Get to Know Your Co-Teacher at inclusiveschooling.com/download66
Mar 3
21 min
When a student yells, swears, withdraws, or melts down, it’s not about control—it’s about regulation. In this episode, Julie and Kristie share how to shift from managing behavior to calming nervous systems in the moment. Learn 20 real-time strategies that help de-escalate intense situations with compassion, not compliance. Download the free guide: 20 De-Escalation Ideas That Work at inclusiveschooling.com/download65
Feb 17
14 min
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