Topic Area: Mental Health

  • Supporting People With Co-occurring IDD and Mental Health Needs Through a Trauma-Informed Lens

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    Experts in the IDD field believe that what people may think of as behavioral issues are actually often manifestations of trauma and trauma-based responses.

  • Reducing Seclusion in Minnesota Schools: A Community-Led Advocacy Success

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    This case study examines a specific challenge and success story in education advocacy: the defense of a critical policy in Minnesota aimed at reducing the use of seclusion in schools. We will explore how EdAllies, a Minnesota-based organization, mobilized a community-led coalition to protect a recently enacted ban on seclusion for young students, highlighting transferable…

  • Empowering Young Minds: How Start Lighthouse Promotes Literacy and Inclusion

    Empowering Young Minds: How Start Lighthouse Promotes Literacy and Inclusion

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    This case study explores how Start Lighthouse is addressing the literacy crisis in underserved communities through culturally relevant programs. Co-founded by Rina Madhani and Brittany Kramer in 2020, the organization promotes inclusion and empowerment with initiatives like Literacy Hubs and the “Woke Activists” curriculum. By repurposing unused spaces into vibrant literacy centers and offering resources…

  • What to Ask in Parent-Teacher Conferences

    What to Ask in Parent-Teacher Conferences

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    This resource from PASen provides essential guidance for parents navigating parent-teacher conferences. It outlines key questions to ask about academic progress, social and emotional development, and classroom behavior, helping parents actively participate in their child’s education. By equipping parents with insightful questions, the guide fosters a collaborative approach between home and school, encouraging open communication…

  • Leadership Coaching: A Mechanism for Supporting Organizational Culture and Enabling Conditions

    Leadership Coaching: A Mechanism for Supporting Organizational Culture and Enabling Conditions

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    This resource highlights the value of leadership coaching in K-12 schools as a means to build leadership capacity, foster collaborative and inclusive cultures, and drive sustainable change. Through personalized coaching, leaders develop confidence, adaptability, and strategic problem-solving skills that benefit both their personal growth and their school communities. By prioritizing coaching, school leaders can enhance…

  • Nashville School Study Tours Resources

    Nashville School Study Tours Resources

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    In April 2024, EALA brought together a group of dedicated educators in Nashville for an immersive School Study Tour focused on advancing inclusive education for students with disabilities and learning differences. Over the course of several days, participants visited four schools and engaged with educators, families, and community partners to explore effective, real-world practices. The…

  • The 10 Indicators of Authentic MTSS Implementation

    The 10 Indicators of Authentic MTSS Implementation

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    This resource outlines the 10 Indicators of Authentic Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) Implementation, offering a framework for schools and districts to effectively implement MTSS. It covers key actions such as establishing an MTSS team, setting SMART goals for academics and social-emotional needs, auditing current practices, and setting up progress monitoring and communication systems. The…

  • UDL Observation Checklist

    UDL Observation Checklist

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    The UDL (Universal Design for Learning) Observation Checklist by SELF is a practical tool for evaluating classroom implementation of UDL principles. It helps educators assess whether learning goals, assessments, materials, and teaching methods are inclusive and provide multiple means of engagement, representation, and expression. The checklist ensures that students have diverse options to demonstrate mastery,…

  • Shifting The Tide: Exploring Centralization of Services for Students with Disabilities in New Orleans

    Shifting The Tide: Exploring Centralization of Services for Students with Disabilities in New Orleans

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    This resource delves into the centralization of special education services in New Orleans, examining how this model has reshaped support for students with disabilities. It explores the benefits and challenges of centralizing resources and services, and its potential to improve equity, access, and outcomes for students across the city. A valuable read for educators, policymakers,…

  • Redesigning High Schools: 10 Features for Success

    Redesigning High Schools: 10 Features for Success

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    This resource, ‘Redesigning High School,’ aims to transform the high school experience by providing strategies for creating engaging, personalized, and equitable learning environments. It features projects that empower students, emphasize real-world learning, and foster supportive school communities—perfect for educators and policymakers reimagining high school education.