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Tuesday, May 13
 

9:00am EDT

(Hybrid) 619 Coordinators' Meeting
Tuesday May 13, 2025 9:00am - 12:00pm EDT
TBA
Speakers
avatar for Debbie Cate
avatar for Ruth E. Gallucci

Ruth E. Gallucci

State ECSE AG Liaison, NASDSE
Ruth Gallucci serves as the National Association of State Directors of Special Education (NASDSE) State Early Childhood Special Education Affinity Group (ECSE AG) Liaison, as well as a Technical Assistance Consultant for the Early Childhood Technical Assistance Center (ECTA) and... Read More →
Tuesday May 13, 2025 9:00am - 12:00pm EDT
TBA
  Preconference, Systems

9:00am EDT

(In-Person) Advancing Inclusive Practices to Promote Social-Emotional and Behavioral Development
Tuesday May 13, 2025 9:00am - 12:00pm EDT
TBA
In this session, we will discuss how there is need for continued support for early childhood educators so that as we work to eliminate practices such as suspension and expulsion, we provide early childhood educators with a toolkit of inclusive, proactive, and preventative strategies they can use in its place to promote social emotional competence. We will also address how exclusionary discipline disproportionately impacts young children of color and young children with disabilities. We will provide strategies to facilitate the meaningful inclusion of all young children. This includes strategies on how to seek additional support for children with disabilities who may have behavior viewed as challenging.
Speakers
avatar for Megan Vinh

Megan Vinh

Senior TA Specialist, FPG
Bio
avatar for Courtney O'Grady

Courtney O'Grady

Assistant Professor, The University of Alabama
Tuesday May 13, 2025 9:00am - 12:00pm EDT
TBA
  Preconference, Behaviors that challenge

9:00am EDT

(In-Person) Fostering Communication and Literacy Skills for Children with Complex Support Needs in Inclusive Settings
Tuesday May 13, 2025 9:00am - 12:00pm EDT
TBA
Children with complex support needs require an extensive array of supports to access their environment, interact with others, participate in instruction, learn, and communicate autonomously. When these supports are not present, they have reduced access to language, communication, and literacy interactions compared to their peers with and without disabilities. This session will describe specific supports such as augmentative and alternative communication and accessible literacy lessons that address these needs and result in increased access, participation, and learning success.
Speakers
avatar for Lisa Thompson

Lisa Thompson

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Allisa (Lisa) Thompson is currently a PhD student at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill where she works as a research assistant in the Center for Literacy and Disability Studies. Prior to her doctoral studies, she served as a special education consultant, literacy consultant... Read More →
Tuesday May 13, 2025 9:00am - 12:00pm EDT
TBA
  Preconference, Practice-focused

9:00am EDT

(In-Person) Preparing Inclusion Advocates and Leaders: Tools and Strategies for Faculty and PD Providers
Tuesday May 13, 2025 9:00am - 12:00pm EDT
TBA
This session will focus on ways in which to build the capacity for early childhood educators to recognize, create, implement, evaluate, and advocate for high-quality inclusive learning and development opportunities for young children. Tools and strategies that help promote emphasis on the full participation of each and every child and their family will be highlighted. Presenters will share examples of how to bring an inclusive lens to any course or professional development offering. Focused tabletop discussions will provide opportunities for participants to follow their interests and learning priorities.
Speakers
avatar for Camille Catlett

Camille Catlett

Senior Technical Assistance Specialist, Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute
Camille Catlett | Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute
avatar for Kelli Odden

Kelli Odden

Professor, Mayville State University
Kelli Odden is a professor of education at Mayville State University.
avatar for Sharon Little

Sharon Little

Higher Education Liaison, Early Years (formerly Child Care Services Association)
Sharon Little, Ed.D is Higher Education Liaison with CCSA, with thirty-eight years of experience in the field of early education and adult learning. Sharon is a former Program Lead and Community College Faculty in Early Childhood Education, a recipient of SCRIPT-NC during her program... Read More →
avatar for Samtra Devard

Samtra Devard

Samtra Devard is a youth and family advocate from Bear, DE.
Tuesday May 13, 2025 9:00am - 12:00pm EDT
TBA
  Preconference, Higher education/Professional development

9:00am EDT

(Virtual) Making Inclusion Work: Use of and Resources for Planning and Implementation of Early Care and Education Environment (ECEE) Indicators of High Quality Inclusion
Tuesday May 13, 2025 9:00am - 12:00pm EDT
TBA
Through the use of the ECEE Indicators, this workshop will share strategies and practices providers can use to support inclusion and belonging in their setting. The ECEE Strengths and Needs Assessment will be shared to support the development of an action plan that immediately recognizes what providers are doing to support inclusion and belonging and aids the provider in planning next steps to enhance inclusive practices. Participants will explore how practices can be embedded into the context of daily early childhood routines. The session will include opportunities to review videos and discuss implementation of the ECEE indicators in small groups and individually.  A resource site for supporting learning about the ECEE will also be shared with participants.
Speakers
avatar for Alissa Rausch

Alissa Rausch

Faculty, University of Denver
avatar for Ben Riepe

Ben Riepe

Senior Project Manager, University of Denver
Ben began his early childhood experience as a Head Start teacher, coach, and trainer. He is on staff at both the National Center for Pyramid Model Innovations and the Early Childhood Technical Assistance Center, where he supports high fidelity program-wide implementation of the Pyramid Model with families of diverse backgrounds in Denver, Colorado. His previous work includes the Colorado Center for Social Emotional Competence and Inclusion, where he supported communities in their efforts to embed evi... Read More →
Tuesday May 13, 2025 9:00am - 12:00pm EDT
TBA
  Preconference, Practice-focused

1:00pm EDT

(Hybrid) Welcome and Keynote Address
Tuesday May 13, 2025 1:00pm - 2:15pm EDT
Grumman
Speakers
avatar for Jordyn Zimmerman

Jordyn Zimmerman

Jordyn Zimmerman is a passionate educator and disability advocate. After being diagnosed as autistic at a young age, she did not receive access to augmentative communication until the age of 18. She now thrives on boldly showing up and redefining what is possible in learning spaces... Read More →
Tuesday May 13, 2025 1:00pm - 2:15pm EDT
Grumman
  Keynote

2:45pm EDT

(Hybrid) Implementing and Sustaining Inclusive Practices in Early Childhood Environments
Tuesday May 13, 2025 2:45pm - 4:15pm EDT
TBA
Speakers
avatar for Pat Snyder

Pat Snyder

UF Distinguished Professor David Lawrence Jr. Endowed Chair in Early Childhood Studies Director, Anita Zucker Center for Excellence in Early Childhood Studies, University of Florida
I am a Distinguished Professor of Special Education and Early Childhood Studies, an affiliate Professor of Pediatrics, the David Lawrence Jr. Endowed Chair in Early Childhood Studies, and Director of the Anita Zucker Center for Excellence in Early Childhood Studies at the University... Read More →
avatar for Hsiu-wen Yang

Hsiu-wen Yang

Researcher, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
LG
KH
Tuesday May 13, 2025 2:45pm - 4:15pm EDT
TBA
  Plenary, Systems

2:45pm EDT

(Hybrid) Implementing and Sustaining Promising State Level Practices
Tuesday May 13, 2025 2:45pm - 4:15pm EDT
TBA
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Heather Googe

Dr. Heather Googe

Principal Investigator, South Carolina Pyramid PIECES , SCIC, & SCPI
Dr. Googe has over 20 years of experience working in the field of early childhood special education and holds a PhD in Special Education from the University of South Carolina. She is a Research Assistant Professor at the Yvonne & Schuyler Moore Child Development Research Center at... Read More →
avatar for Ann Kremer

Ann Kremer

Project Director, Early CHOICES
Ann Kremer is the Project Director for Early CHOICES a preschool inclusion initiative of the Illinois State Board of Education.  The mission of Early CHOICES is to increase high quality inclusive opportunities for young children. Ann has a masters of education in early childhood... Read More →
SA
MW
Tuesday May 13, 2025 2:45pm - 4:15pm EDT
TBA
  Plenary, Systems

4:30pm EDT

(In-Person) Reflection Session: Families
Tuesday May 13, 2025 4:30pm - 5:15pm EDT
TBA
Tuesday May 13, 2025 4:30pm - 5:15pm EDT
TBA
  Reflection, Families

4:30pm EDT

(In-Person) Reflection Session: Higher education faculty/Professional development providers
Tuesday May 13, 2025 4:30pm - 5:15pm EDT
TBA
Moderators
avatar for Camille Catlett

Camille Catlett

Senior Technical Assistance Specialist, Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute
Camille Catlett | Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute
Tuesday May 13, 2025 4:30pm - 5:15pm EDT
TBA
  Reflection, Higher education/Professional development

4:30pm EDT

(In-Person) Reflection Session: National, State, and Local Administrators
Tuesday May 13, 2025 4:30pm - 5:15pm EDT
TBA
Tuesday May 13, 2025 4:30pm - 5:15pm EDT
TBA
  Reflection, Systems

4:30pm EDT

(In-Person) Reflection Session: Teachers and providers – Special education, regular education, childcare, Head Start
Tuesday May 13, 2025 4:30pm - 5:15pm EDT
TBA
Tuesday May 13, 2025 4:30pm - 5:15pm EDT
TBA
  Reflection, Practice-focused

4:30pm EDT

(Virtual) Reflection Session: Teachers and providers – Special education, regular education, childcare, Head Start, National, State, and Local Administrators
Tuesday May 13, 2025 4:30pm - 5:15pm EDT
TBA
Tuesday May 13, 2025 4:30pm - 5:15pm EDT
TBA
  Reflection, Practice-focused
 
Wednesday, May 14
 

8:30am EDT

(Hybrid) Making Adaptations to Support Access and Meaningful Participation Within Everyday Routines and Activities for All Children
Wednesday May 14, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
TBA
All children have the right to meaningful participation in early care and education environments. Yet, children 
with disabilities are often excluded from routines and activities within these environments. This session will 
support practitioners in understanding how to use adaptations to promote participation and belonging within 
classrooms. This session will also explore several online resources that are available at no-cost to support 
adults in providing access and meaningful participation for each child.
Speakers
avatar for Megan Vinh

Megan Vinh

Senior TA Specialist, FPG
Bio
avatar for Allison Jones

Allison Jones

Technical Assistance Specialist, Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute at UNC, Chapel Hill.
 Allison Jones, M.Ed. is a TA Specialist with the Early Childhood Technical Assistance Center (ECTA) at the Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute and the Center for IDEA Early Childhood Data Systems. Allison has worked in the field of early childhood for over 20 years... Read More →
Wednesday May 14, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
TBA
  Concurrent, Practice-focused

8:30am EDT

(Hybrid) The Global Promotion of My Abilities First project and Taiwanese development and strategies to facilitate application of My Abilities ID Cards
Wednesday May 14, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
TBA
The My Abilities First (MAF) project, initiated in 2016, emphasizes empowering children and their families through self-expression and the use of positive language in children's services. In 2020, Taiwan joined this global MAF project by introducing My Abilities ID Cards (ABID) for children under 12 years old with special needs and placing these ABIDs on the first page of children's individual profiles to encourage practitioners to focus on children's strengths rather than their weaknesses. Additionally, Taiwan has expanded this transformative approach by incorporating ABID into physiotherapy education, highlighting the importance of a strength-based approach for children with special needs. Participants will have the opportunity to engage in a discussion about challenges and solutions as well as lessons learned across differing contexts.

There are three subtitles to introduce the global promotion of My Abilities First project and Taiwanese development and strategies to facilitate application of My Abilities ID Cards. Three subtitles are: 1. Schiariti Veronica- My Abilities First: Global Promotion of Children's Right to Self-Expression. 2. Liao HF- Promoting My Abilities First: Launching My Abilities ID Card Demonstration Sites in Taiwan 3.Wang PJ- Facilitating Positive Language in HealthcareEducation in Taiwan: My Abilities ID Cards
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Verónica Schiariti

Dr. Verónica Schiariti

Adjunct Associate Professor; Creator of "My Abilities First" project, Division of Medical Sciences, University of Victoria, BC, Canada
Dr. Schiariti has also led many knowledge translation initiatives to disseminate the application of the ICF Core Sets in clinical practice around the world. Her work has been recognized with different honours and awards, including the 2022 Children's Healthcare Canada Individual... Read More →
avatar for Professor Hua-Fang Liao
avatar for Pei-Jung Wang

Pei-Jung Wang

Assistant Professor, Physical Therapy Department, Asia University, Taichung, Taiwan
Pei-Jung (Grace) Wang currently works as an assistant professor of physical therapy department at Asia University. Her research interest focus on pediatric rehabilitation, assessment and factors influencing mastery motivation in young children with and without developmental disabilities... Read More →
Wednesday May 14, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
TBA
  Concurrent, International

8:30am EDT

(In-Person) From "Challenging" to Connected: How Belonging Impacts Children's Behavior
Wednesday May 14, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
TBA
Ever wonder why some environments bring out the best in children? This session invites providers to reframe challenging behaviors as expected and meaningful expressions of a child’s experiences. Participants will explore how belonging shapes children’s development and consider practical ways to create environments where every child feels connected and valued. Presenters will offer strategies for co-creating connection and inclusion and for turning challenging moments into opportunities for further understanding and supporting young children.
Speakers
avatar for Jackie Joseph

Jackie Joseph

Research Associate Professor, University of Denver
Dr. Jackie Joseph is a Research Associate Professor at the University of Denver, where she is focused on connection, meaningful participation, and joyful learning across all levels of early childhood care and education systems. Dr. Joseph specializes in family partnerships and best... Read More →
avatar for Sally Hansen

Sally Hansen

Director of Development and Technical Assistance, University of Denver
Sally has been dedicated to early childhood care and education and children's mental health for over two decades, bringing a unique blend of therapeutic, behavioral, and administrative expertise to her work. With experience as a family therapist, early childhood behavior consultant... Read More →
Wednesday May 14, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
TBA
  Concurrent, Behaviors that challenge

8:30am EDT

(In-Person) Harnessing the Power of Family’s Lived Experiences and Stories: Examples, Resources, and Practices
Wednesday May 14, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
TBA
This session will offer a unique opportunity to hear from individuals who can speak as both family members and professionals about what they experienced, what they learned, and what they want to share with families and professionals. Join us to hear their advice on the most effective practices for supporting family engagement, then dive into conversations about how to build reciprocal relationships in higher education, state professional development, and local program efforts.
Speakers
avatar for Camille Catlett

Camille Catlett

Senior Technical Assistance Specialist, Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute
Camille Catlett | Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute
avatar for Kelli Odden

Kelli Odden

Professor, Mayville State University
Kelli Odden is a professor of education at Mayville State University.
avatar for Samtra Devard

Samtra Devard

Samtra Devard is a youth and family advocate from Bear, DE.
Wednesday May 14, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
TBA
  Concurrent, Higher Education/Professional Development

10:30am EDT

(Hybrid) Get Up & Move: Using Play & Movement to Promote Inclusion, Wellness, & Exploration in Early Childhood
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
TBA
 Active learning is essential for social emotional development, health, wellness, and learning growth. Get Up and Move (GUM) activities help to engage children with diverse abilities socially, academically, and physically. This session centers on the importance of integrating active play, kinesthetic instruction, and physical movement into inclusive early childhood experiences. Participants will engage in “GUM” warm-ups, games, and simulations designed to get bodies moving, brains thinking, and smiles beaming. Participants will also explore and discuss high-leverage strategies to actively include children with a wide range of strengths and needs. And participants will leave with ready-to-implement ideas to meet the needs of all children through meaningful play.
 
Speakers
avatar for Amanda Kloo

Amanda Kloo

Director of Inclusive Recreation, National Inclusion Project
Dr. Amanda Kloo is an educator, interventionist, and developmental specialist with decades of experience teaching children of all ages and abilities. She is Director of Inclusive Recreation at the National Inclusion Project, a nonprofit providing recreation programs, schools, and... Read More →
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
TBA
  Concurrent, Practice-focused

10:30am EDT

(Hybrid) Voices of Inclusion: Beneficiary and Parent Perspectives from Sinfonía por el Perú
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
TBA
This session brings to life the perspectives of young musicians with differing abilities and their families participating in Sinfonía por el Perú, a nationally recognized social music program. By centering beneficiary and parent voices, this presentation highlights real experiences, expectations, and the essential role of family engagement in fostering truly inclusive music education.


Key Takeaways:
  • Youth Voices in Inclusion: Insights from interviews with young musicians with various abilities on their perceptions and expectations toward inclusion. 
  • The Power of Family Engagement: Introduction of the Parent Package, a practical resource designed to empower families as active partners in their child's musical and social development.
  • Building Supportive, Inclusive Environments: Practical strategies for educators, administrators, and community leaders to strengthen inclusion within music programs, ensuring meaningful and sustainable participation for all.


This presentation will offer both pilot-tested insights and practical approaches, equipping participants with ideas to foster a culture of inclusion in their communities.
Speakers
avatar for Petra Kern

Petra Kern

Owner & Founder/Fulbright Specialist, Music Therapy Consulting/Fulbright Perú
Dr. Petra Kern, Ph.D., MT-BC, MTA, DMtG, is a globally recognized expert in music therapy, with a strong commitment to family-centered inclusion practices. As a Fulbright Specialist (2024–2027), she collaborates with Sinfonía por el Perú, strengthening its Special Education Program... Read More →
avatar for Luis Alberto Castillo

Luis Alberto Castillo

Coordinator, Special Education, Sinfonía por el Perú
Luis Alberto Castillo Acosta is a lawyer, percussionist, and music educator with over 20 years of experience in music education. Trained in El Sistema Nacional de Orquestas de Mérida, Venezuela, he has dedicated his career to expanding opportunities for young musicians with disabilities. As... Read More →
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Anel Romina Vasquez Cieza

Social Intervention Team, Special Education, Sinfonía por el Perú
Anel Vásquez is a Peruvian sociologist with expertise in social research, inclusion, and equity. A graduate of Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú, she also studied at UNC-Chapel Hill as an exchange student. With six years of experience in both the public and private sectors... Read More →
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
TBA
  Concurrent, International

10:30am EDT

(In-Person) Stay-Play-Talk: A Peer-Mediated Intervention for Autistic Children with Limited or No Spoken Language
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
TBA
“Stay-Play-Talk" is a peer-mediated intervention that has been shown to have beneficial impacts on social communication skills for autistic children.  This session will review strategies from Stay-Play-Talk to help peers be responsive play and communication partners. We will describe clinical applications for its use with autistic children with limited or no spoken language who are learning to use a speech-generating device to augment speech. The presentation will include video examples and practical tips for implementing peer-mediated interventions in real-world settings.
Speakers
avatar for Janet Weaver

Janet Weaver

Project Coordinator, Juniper Gardens Children’s Project, University of Kansas
Janet Weaver is a Project Coordinator at Juniper Gardens Children’s Project in the Life Span Institute at the University of Kansas. She is the coordinator for the Peer Interventions for Preschoolers with Autism (PIPA) project, a five-year, multi-site study focused on adapting an... Read More →
avatar for Sarah Greer, MS, CCC-SLP, IBCLC

Sarah Greer, MS, CCC-SLP, IBCLC

Clinical Research Specialist, Division of Speech and Hearing Sciences at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Sarah Greer (she/her) is a Clinical Research Specialist in the Division of Speech and Hearing Sciences at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She is the site project coordinator for the Peer Interventions for Preschoolers with Autism (PIPA) project, a multi-site study... Read More →
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
TBA
  Concurrent, Autism

10:30am EDT

(In-Person) Tools for Preparing Adult Learners to Individualize to Support Each and Every Child
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
TBA
This session will focus on options for designing effective coursework and professional development that supports participants to learn, try out, and apply practices for supporting each and every learner. Techniques for addressing adaptations and evidence-based teaching practices will be offered, including ways in which to use place-based personas to support outcomes that reflect attention to early childhood inclusion.
Speakers
avatar for Camille Catlett

Camille Catlett

Senior Technical Assistance Specialist, Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute
Camille Catlett | Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute
avatar for Sharon Little

Sharon Little

Higher Education Liaison, Early Years (formerly Child Care Services Association)
Sharon Little, Ed.D is Higher Education Liaison with CCSA, with thirty-eight years of experience in the field of early education and adult learning. Sharon is a former Program Lead and Community College Faculty in Early Childhood Education, a recipient of SCRIPT-NC during her program... Read More →
avatar for Kelli Odden

Kelli Odden

Professor, Mayville State University
Kelli Odden is a professor of education at Mayville State University.
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
TBA
  Concurrent, Higher education/Professional development

1:00pm EDT

(Hybrid) Maximizing Opportunities for Learning and Development of All Young Children: A Universal Design for Learning Approach
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:00pm - 2:30pm EDT
TBA
This interactive session will:
 1. Review the research related to the role of access, participation, and belonging within the early childhood school and classroom 
2. Hear from families and learn about their experiences navigating and partnering with their child’s school and early educators
3. Reflect upon the 3 Universal Design for Learning Principles (UDL) and apply the UDL principles to provide high-quality teaching and learning environments that support children’s development and allow all children to meet high expectations
Speakers
avatar for Bweikia Foster Steen

Bweikia Foster Steen

Associate Professor, George Mason University
Dr. Bweikia Steen has been involved in the early childhood education field for over 20 years. Currently, she serves as an Associate Professor of Early Childhood Education at George Mason University in Fairfax, VA. She previously served as Associate professor and the director of the... Read More →
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:00pm - 2:30pm EDT
TBA
  Concurrent, Practice-focused

1:00pm EDT

(Hybrid) Reflecting, Celebrating, and Advancing Family Partnerships
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:00pm - 2:30pm EDT
TBA
This interactive session will provide an opportunity for family leaders and practitioners to discuss ideas, tools, and strategies supporting the inclusion of young children across settings. Family leaders will share their life-changing experiences with family partnership and leadership initiatives that supported them in learning about the state’s early intervention and early childhood special education programs, advocating for high quality inclusion practices, and providing leadership and support for other families across maternal and early childhood systems.
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:00pm - 2:30pm EDT
TBA
  Concurrent, Collaboration

1:00pm EDT

(Hybrid) “All About Me” As a Strategy for Self-Advocacy
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:00pm - 2:30pm EDT
TBA
Self-advocacy is crucial for individuals with disabilities- especially kids! Self-advocacy is also challenging for individuals with disabilities- especially kids! It is a taught, learned, and practiced skill. Revamping the familiar “All About Me” activity is a fantastic way to equip children of all ages, stages, and abilities to make informed, authentic, empowered decisions about school, life, and play.  During this session, we will engage together in hands-on, minds-on, hearts-on "All About Me" activities.  Participants will leave with practical and meaningful ideas for strategy implementation.
 
Speakers
avatar for Amanda Kloo

Amanda Kloo

Director of Inclusive Recreation, National Inclusion Project
Dr. Amanda Kloo is an educator, interventionist, and developmental specialist with decades of experience teaching children of all ages and abilities. She is Director of Inclusive Recreation at the National Inclusion Project, a nonprofit providing recreation programs, schools, and... Read More →
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:00pm - 2:30pm EDT
TBA
  Concurrent, Practice-focused

1:00pm EDT

(In-Person) Integrating AI into Higher Education and Learning Management Systems (LMS)
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:00pm - 3:30pm EDT
TBA
This session explores the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education by focusing on the integration of AI into Learning Management Systems (LMS) and higher education settings to ensure that all learners can access and participate fully. Participants will learn how AI can create personalized, inclusive learning experiences that address the unique needs of each and every learner, including multilingual learners and students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). Attendees will leave with practical strategies to implement these AI tools responsibly, ensuring they are both inclusive and effective.
Speakers
avatar for Dorentina Dedushaj

Dorentina Dedushaj

Research Coordinator and Instructor, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Dorentina is a researcher and educator passionate about inclusive early childhood development and innovative learning. As a Research Coordinator at the Early Learning Lab (University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill), she manages projects focused on early childhood language development... Read More →
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:00pm - 3:30pm EDT
TBA
  Concurrent, Higher education/Professional development

3:00pm EDT

(Hybrid) We Are Not Hard to Reach: Engaging Black Fathers of Children with Disabilities
Wednesday May 14, 2025 3:00pm - 4:30pm EDT
TBA
This presentations aims to develop a better understanding of the lived experiences of Black fathers of children with disabilities. The diagnosis of disability in a child presents a challenge for many parents and families (Huang, Kellett & St Jon 2010). For most parents learning about their children's disability, shock becomes the first response to dealing with the diagnosis (Hemming & Akurst 2009; Yaacob et al. 2021). Fathers are regarded as "hard to reach" by educators and practitioners within social services. In this session audience members will hear about lived experiences of the Black Father Crew, fathers of children with disabilities from across the United States.
Speakers
avatar for Brandy D. James

Brandy D. James

Director, Black Father Crew
Brandy James is the Early Childhood Learning Coordinator for Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation and Lecturer in the Department of Family Community Medicine at The University of Arizona. Her work has addressed a variety of topics in ECSE/EI, including early childhood providers... Read More →
Wednesday May 14, 2025 3:00pm - 4:30pm EDT
TBA
  Concurrent, Families

3:00pm EDT

(In-Person) Assessment Practices that Integrate Cultural and Linguistic Factors for Bilingual Children
Wednesday May 14, 2025 3:00pm - 4:30pm EDT
TBA
This presentation centers on cultural and linguistic factors for assessing bilingual children. Fundamental components and strategies for framing an assessment that integrates these aspects will be discussed. Specific focus will be given to guiding principles for assessing language and communication skills. Key considerations relevant to working with families of children from bilingual backgrounds will be addressed as well.
Speakers
avatar for Kimberly C. Jenkins

Kimberly C. Jenkins

University of North Carolina at Chapel HIll
Kimberly Jenkins, PhD, CCC-SLP is an assistant professor in the Division of Speech and Hearing Sciences at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Her research interest is the acquisition and development of language in children who are in the process of learning two languages... Read More →
Wednesday May 14, 2025 3:00pm - 4:30pm EDT
TBA
  Concurrent, Practice-focused

3:00pm EDT

(In-Person) Positive Social Engagement in Early Childhood Classrooms: What Does it Look Like?
Wednesday May 14, 2025 3:00pm - 4:30pm EDT
TBA
This session aims at presenting current evidence of everyday practices for nurturing peer interactions and supporting positive social engagement in early childhood classrooms. Participants will review recommended practices, watch video clips of classroom implementation, and discuss ways inclusive practices can be individualized to support the diverse learning profiles of children.
Speakers
avatar for Elena Soukakou

Elena Soukakou

Honorary Research Fellow, University of Roehampton, UK
Elena P. Soukakou is an Honorary Research Fellow in the School Education, University of Roehampton, United Kingdom.  She is also a visiting Professor at the Department of Early Childhood Education of the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens.  Dr. Soukakou has been working... Read More →
DA

Dr. Amy Grattan

Executive Director, Paul V. Sherlock Center On Disabilities Rhode Island College
Amy Grattan, Ph.D., is the executive director of the Sherlock Center on Disabilities. Her work in RI includes serving as a consultant to numerous RI initiatives focused on improving the quality of education for young children; participating and then leading the expansion and revisions... Read More →
Wednesday May 14, 2025 3:00pm - 4:30pm EDT
TBA
  Concurrent, Practice-focused
 
Thursday, May 15
 

8:30am EDT

(In-Person) Empowering Advocacy for Families and Students with Disabilities Through the use of Advanced Technologies
Thursday May 15, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
TBA
In an era of rapid technological advancement, families and students with disabilities have unprecedented opportunities to enhance advocacy through various advanced technologies. This presentation will delve into how tools like artificial intelligence (AI) and digital communicationplatforms can empower families to better navigate educational systems and access essentialresources. We will explore practical applications, from AI-driven learning aids and assistivetechnologies to online communities and advocacy tools that streamline communication witheducators and professionals.
Speakers
avatar for Joe La Belle

Joe La Belle

Director of Programs, Family Network on Disabilities
Joe La Belle is a pioneering figure at the intersection of AI and education, serving as the Director of Programs Impact at Family Network on Disabilities. In Florida, he oversees four key programs and lends his expertise to OSEP-funded Technical Assistance centers, enhancing support... Read More →
Thursday May 15, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
TBA
  Concurrent, Families

8:30am EDT

(In-Person) Incorporating Universal Design 3.0 in Coursework and Professional Development
Thursday May 15, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
TBA
2024 revealed the long-awaited updates to the Universal Design for Learning (UDL) guidelines, with greater attention to issues early childhood inclusion. This session will start by sharing options for faculty and PD providers to discover, practice, and apply those guidelines in their learning opportunities and assignments. Then it will share examples of ways to help students and learners to learn about and apply UDL principles in their work with children and families.
Speakers
avatar for Camille Catlett

Camille Catlett

Senior Technical Assistance Specialist, Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute
Camille Catlett | Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute
avatar for Kelli Odden

Kelli Odden

Professor, Mayville State University
Kelli Odden is a professor of education at Mayville State University.
Thursday May 15, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
TBA
  Concurrent, Higher education/Professional development

10:15am EDT

(Hybrid) Membership and Belonging: Thinking Differently About Disability
Thursday May 15, 2025 10:15am - 11:45am EDT
TBA
Research has shown that the primary challenge to supporting children with disabilities in regular early childhood settings like child care and Head Start rests within our own attitudes and beliefs. Therefore, in order to find innovative approaches to challenges, we should start by reflecting on our own mindset. How did we come to our understanding of the notion of disability in the first place? Are these beliefs getting in the way of our approaches toward children, families and colleagues? Let's explore it together! Join us to consider alternatives to the common definition of disability and how this alternative way of thinking can impact programs and practices. Together we will reflect on our attitudes and beliefs about disability, learn through storytelling and reflection, and consider an approach for supporting children with disabilities to foster change and create solutions. Together we can expand our thinking and find solutions!
Speakers
avatar for Jackie Joseph

Jackie Joseph

Research Associate Professor, University of Denver
Dr. Jackie Joseph is a Research Associate Professor at the University of Denver, where she is focused on connection, meaningful participation, and joyful learning across all levels of early childhood care and education systems. Dr. Joseph specializes in family partnerships and best... Read More →
avatar for Megan Vinh

Megan Vinh

Senior TA Specialist, FPG
Bio
avatar for Jani Kozlowski

Jani Kozlowski

Technical Assistance Specialist, UNC-CH
Jani Kozlowski, MA is a passionate early childhood professional, author, speaker, technical assistance specialist and consultant focused on supporting each and every child and family during the most critical period of development. Jani provides professional development and technical... Read More →
Thursday May 15, 2025 10:15am - 11:45am EDT
TBA
  Concurrent, Practice-focused

10:15am EDT

(Hybrid) Native American Alaska Native Language and Culture Impact on Children's Behavior
Thursday May 15, 2025 10:15am - 11:45am EDT
TBA
In my work with tribes one of the things that has stood out has been that every full tribal language immersion school or classroom has almost no behavior issues. We will look at some of the commonalities of why this may be happening when another school or classroom  from the same community may show different results. This includes schools in the Southwest, Northern Woodland areas, Northwest, Alaska and Hawaii, all of them seem to have this in common. We will talk about how language and culture can influence behavior and what is so unique in these settings, such as tribal languages being verb driven instead of noun driven as English is. How sign language impacts behavior. I have looked at the methodologies over the years used in these learning environments and we will have a open discussion on what I have learned, along with the natural process of inclusion being built into the language and culture.
Speakers
avatar for Micker (Mike) Richardson

Micker (Mike) Richardson

Director, National American Indian Alaska Native Head Start Collaboration Office
Micker (Mike) Richardson (Haliwa-Saponi), MBA, serves as the Director of the National American Indian and Alaska Native Head Start Collaboration Office. NAIANHSCO is committed to assisting Head Start grantees in developing collaborative partnerships to improve the quality of life... Read More →
Thursday May 15, 2025 10:15am - 11:45am EDT
TBA
  Concurrent, Practice-focused

10:15am EDT

(In-Person) Literacy Beginnings: Including Children with Extensive Support Needs in Emergent Literacy Learning
Thursday May 15, 2025 10:15am - 11:45am EDT
TBA
Emergent literacy is the foundation for later reading and writing development for all children. Emergent literacy activities help children develop understandings of the forms and functions of print, while developing essential language and communication skills. Children with extensive support needs often face barriers to participating in emergent literacy activities. Their combined language, communication, physical, sensory, and cognitive needs often result in limited learning opportunities. Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) is one essential support for children with extensive support needs. In this session, we will describe ways to incorporate AAC into comprehensive approaches to emergent literacy and provide hands-on practice using AAC during shared reading and using alternative pencils for writing.
Speakers
avatar for Suzanne Feinstein

Suzanne Feinstein

Suzanne Feinstein, M.A., CCC-SLP is a doctoral student in Speech & Hearing Sciences at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She is currently a research assistant in the Center for Literacy and Disability Studies. Her research interests include understanding how various... Read More →
avatar for Hsiao-Ting Su

Hsiao-Ting Su

Doctoral Student, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Hsiao-Ting, M.A., CCC-SLP, is currently a doctoral student in Speech & Hearing Sciences at the University o.f North Carolina-Chapel Hill where she works at the Center for Literacy Disability Studies as a research assistant. She is a bilingual Mandarin-English SLP and has worked in... Read More →
Thursday May 15, 2025 10:15am - 11:45am EDT
TBA
  Concurrent, Practice-focused
 
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