President Theme: Innovative Ways to Engage, Empower, and Excite Students with Disabilities and their Peers

What happens when inclusion moves beyond compliance and becomes culture? Join this practical and humorous session to learn from Dr. Andy Jacks and teachers in the field as they share innovative ways to engage students with disabilities and their peers through inclusive practices that build belonging, agency, and excitement for learning. Grounded in real classrooms, not theory alone, this session highlights small but powerful instructional and relational shifts that make a big difference for students. Participants will be able to: 1. Explore both individual and schoolwide strategies that empower students to use their strengths, amplify their voices, and connect meaningfully with others. 2. Leave with practical ideas they can use immediately in general education and special education settings, as well as leadership insights for fostering inclusive school cultures. CEC’s Presidential Strand (Innovative Access; Innovation Redefined) is sponsored by Let’s Go Learn