From December 3-4, 2023, a group of 27 professionals gathered in Scottsdale, Arizona, for the EALA Community of Action. This unique biannual event brings together experts to tackle challenges facing students with disabilities and learning differences. The convening focuses on selecting promising practices, and within 36 hours, participants form teams to develop and present their innovative solutions. Through participatory grantmaking, attendees collectively choose one to three proposed solutions to receive funding, turning their collaborative ideas into actionable projects.
Feedback from Participants:
“My top takeaway from this year’s CoA was that the networking and collaboration opportunities… will continue beyond this conference and there is the potential to remain connected and collaborative for years to come.”
Resources:
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Breaking Barriers: The Transformative Engagement Alliance’s Mission to Connect Schools and Non-English-Speaking Families
Winner: Transformative Engagement Alliance The Transformative Engagement Alliance, a 2024 EALA Community of Action winner, is bridging the gap between schools and non-English-speaking families—particularly those with neurodivergent children. Spanish Verison: Haz clic aquí para español |
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Case study: Centering Youth: Transforming Communities Through Youth-Led Action
Winner: Youth Action Project The Youth Action Project puts Disabled and Neurodivergent youth at the center of school and community change. Launched through the 2024 EALA Community of Action, it shows what’s possible when students lead and adults listen. |
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From Think Tanks to Do Tanks: Coaching for Equity in Education
In this episode, EALA sits down with Alicia Ciocca, an experienced educator and coach, for an inside look at the EALA Community of Action. Alicia shares her journey from teaching in NYC public schools to guiding educators in transformational coaching. Together, they discuss the power of centering student voices, embracing vulnerability, and turning ideas into action. Tune in to learn how fostering collaboration, emotional awareness, and equity-driven coaching can lead to real change for students with disabilities and learning differences. |
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Building Bridges: Families, Educators, and Policy in Action
In this Community of Action Podcast, Aurora from the Educating All Learners Alliance sits down with Jason B. Allen, National Director of Partnerships at the National Parents Union. Jason shares insights from his experience at the Community of Action convening—where educators, leaders, and families came together to create real solutions for students with disabilities. From unexpected breakthroughs to shaping policy and strengthening partnerships, Jason reflects on how this transformative experience continues to impact his work and the broader education landscape. |