Teaching at the Intersections: Love and Rigor for Students of Color with Disabilities

This session explores how K–12 educators can center love and rigor when teaching students of color with disabilities. Participants will examine culturally affirming, high-expectation practices that honor intersecting identities. Practical strategies, real-life examples, and reflective tools will support inclusive, equity-driven instruction that nurtures academic and social-emotional growth.Participants will be able to: 1. Identify and disrupt deficit-based narratives about students of color with disabilities by recognizing how intersecting systems of racism and ableism impact student experiences, expectations, and access to opportunity. 2. Examine case studies and reflect on their own beliefs to build awareness and advocacy. 3. Apply culturally affirming, high-expectation strategies to classroom instruction and student support. 4. Learn how to integrate students' cultural and linguistic identities into curriculum design, use asset-based language in IEPs, and maintain rigorous academic standards through differentiated supports that empower rather than remediate.