(REC) Perspectives in Partnership: Practitioner, Person, and Parent – Making Shift Happen in the School Setting

Join us for Perspectives in Partnership: Practitioner, Person, and Parent – Making Shift Happen in the School Setting, a dynamic webinar exploring neuroaffirming practices and strategies for supporting students in the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE). This session brings together insights from a practitioner, a parent, and a neurodivergent individual, offering a comprehensive view of how to create inclusive, engaging, and supportive learning environments. Focused on the importance of student assent and the shift from compliance-based to joy-centered teaching, this webinar will share practical approaches to fostering behavior and engagement that honor neurodiversity and prioritize student agency. Participants will leave with actionable strategies and insights into the perspectives of neurodivergent individuals and their families/advocates, along with strategies to implement in classrooms and school settings. Join us in fostering meaningful change and student success!

Learning Objectives:

• The participant will explain the importance of neuroaffirming practices in supporting students in the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE).
• The participant will identify strategies to shift from compliance-based teaching to a joy-centered approach that prioritizes student assent.
• The participant will provide examples of how to foster student engagement and behavior using neurodiversity-affirming techniques.
• The participant will explain the perspectives of neurodivergent individuals and their families/advocates in relation to educational practices and goals.
• The participant will identify actionable strategies for implementing inclusive and supportive learning environments based on the shared insights of practitioners, parents, and neurodivergent individuals.

PRESENTER(S): Abbey Mix

Abbey is a LMSW and BCBA serving Kent ISD as the Supervisor of Specialized Programming and Instructional Supports,, where she leads a team of Special Education Coaches specializing in Autism, Behavior, Specially Designed Instruction (SDI), and Functional Communication, all dedicated to enhancing the quality of special education across local, regional, and center programs throughout the county. Her professional interests include anti-ableist work, supporting the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) through neurodiversity-affirming practices, and coaching and training on values-driven behavior support. Abbey is passionate about supporting staff learning to improve outcomes for students, and her work is driven by a commitment to fostering inclusive and effective educational environments.