Inclusion and the Learner-Centered Classroom with Tanya Sheckley

Most students across the country are back in school already, and some will begin within the next week or two. It’s a busy time! Our best reminders for parents are to check in with teachers about your child’s progress and request an IEP meeting for your child. We have been excited about what’s happening with teacher-centered classrooms changing to inclusive and learner-centered classrooms, so that’s our topic up for discussion today. Join us to learn more!We welcome Tanya Sheckley to the show today! She is the founder of Up Academy, a progressive elementary (and soon-to-be middle school) in the San Francisco Bay area that is inclusive of students with physical disabilities. Tanya’s motivation for Up Academy came in the form of her oldest daughter, who has cerebral palsy and needed the right educational fit where she could excel academically and get the physical care she needed. Up Academy classrooms focus on a community framework where universal accommodations allow each student to learn life skills and academic skills to be successful, no matter their disability or learning style. Show Highlights:How teachers can solve simple “othering” issues and craft their environment to be more indicative of the real worldWhy educators need to be adaptable and open to change in policies and proceduresWhy accommodations are really small, simple changes that can be made to meet students’ needs and include everyoneWhat Tanya wants parents and educators to know about creating an inclusive classroomHow inclusion for all learners begins with a relationship with students and the simple questions about what they want and needLinks/Resources:Connect with Tanya:  Up Academy, Rebel Educator, LinkedIn, and FacebookCheck out Tanya’s podcast:  Rebel EducatorThank you for listening! Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.If you enjoyed this episode and believe in our message, then please help us get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show in Apple Podcasts, Stitcher Radio, or Google Play. It helps other listeners find this show.Be sure to connect with us and reach out with any questions/concerns:FacebookInstagram–We are doing videos on Instagram, so connect with us there and send us your questions!TwitterIEP websiteEmail us: [email protected]