Yes, we’re talking about accommodations FOR TEACHERS…
I recently asked educators on social media if neurodivergent staff were being offered any support, and folks had a LOT to say! In this episode I’ll share:
From there, I’ll share the commonalities and patterns in the response from educators about what’s been helpful and what’s needed.
I’ll talk about the 5 ways schools can offer support to neurodivergent educators and what these recommendations look like in practice:
#1: Allow for flexibility and autonomy, especially within breaks
#2) Designate quiet areas and mitigate the effects of overstimulating environments
#3) Communicate proactively about scheduling and changes
#4: Give clear directives, so the invisible expectations become visible
#5) Differentiate PD and offer topics related to executive function and organization
Additionally, I’ll make the case for universal design: that’s what good for neurodivergent educators also benefits neurotypical educators, and that these practices can (and should) be implemented school-wide.
"Transformative change means feeling different, having different experiences every day, not just little changes that feel like a band-aid."
These are the words of today’s guest, Elena Aguilar, an instructional coach whose latest book is called Arise: The Art of Transformation Coaching. (https://amzn.to/3Srseot) Through her book and our conversation today, you’re invited to teach in a “human-centered, compassionate, wildly optimistic way.”
Listen in as we discuss:
As we look toward the start of a new school year, I hope that Elena’s thoughts will help you reimagine what’s possible in your classroom, and create conditions for both student transformations and your own.
Get the shareable article/transcript for this episode here.