2025 Summer Inclusion Leadership Conference: Full Schedule

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8:00am EDT

Summer Inclusion Leadership Conference 2025

Friday June 6, 2025 8:00am - 3:30pm EDT

Friday June 6, 2025 8:00am - 3:30pm EDT
North Avenue Academic Building [NAAB] 1000 Morris Ave, Kean University, Union, NJ 07083, USA

9:00am EDT

Rising Together: Inclusive Education and MTSS

Friday June 6, 2025 9:00am - 10:30am EDT

Auditorium

Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) and inclusive education are best realized when they rise together — each aligned with the other, their synergy making both stronger. What are the key actions we can take to build that unity? How can we design MTSS and inclusive education to reinforce, bolster and lift each other? Let’s explore what’s possible when we leverage inclusive education and MTSS together and develop actionable strategies to make a lasting impact in your school community.

Speakers

Michael McSheehan

Owner/TA Provider, Evolve & Effect

Michael McSheehan’s life work has been at the intersection of disability and K-12 education. He is a systems-thinker, an implementation specialist, and a leader in the field of multi-tiered system of support (MTSS) and inclusive education. Whether it’s assisting with student-specific... Read More →

Friday June 6, 2025 9:00am - 10:30am EDT
Auditorium

Plenary Session

10:50am EDT

Building Best Practices in Inclusive Education: Barriers and Solutions

Friday June 6, 2025 10:50am - 11:55am EDT

Room 109

Speakers

James C. Coviello, Ed.D.

St. Johnâ€™s University

Friday June 6, 2025 10:50am - 11:55am EDT
Room 109

Session 1

10:50am EDT

Building Culturally Responsive Relationships with Families to Support Multilingual Learners and Children with Disabilities: Insights and Practices from a Speech Pathologist

Friday June 6, 2025 10:50am - 11:55am EDT

Room 309

This presentation calls educators to use the Collaboration Framework and High-Leverage Practices (HLP) to prepare teachers, service providers, and school leaders to collaborate with diverse families of children with disabilities. By using Culturally Inclusive Pedagogies and Practices (CIPP), educators can foster a sense of belonging for Multilingual Learners (MLs) and their families. Appropriate programming is crucial, as MLs do not necessarily have a language disorder. Understanding language development lays the groundwork for differentiating between a language difference and a language disorder. Resources for multilingual learners, families, and educational teams will be provided.

Speakers

Kristen Gavinelli, M.S., CCC-SLP

Speech and Language Pathology Specialist, NJDOE-OSE

Kristen Gavinelli, M.S., CCC-SLP is a Speech and Language Pathology Specialist working at the New Jersey Department of Education, Office of Special Education (NJDOE-OSE). Her background includes Early Childhood Education, Elementary Education, K-8 Sciences, Special Education, and... Read More →

Dr. Eileen Osieja

Education Program Development Specialist, NJDOE-OSE

Drawing on over 25 years of experience as a Special Education specialist, I offer expertise in evidence-based instruction, assessment, and program design spanning grades P-12. My foundation in curriculum development from Teachers College, Columbia University, has shaped my approach... Read More →

Friday June 6, 2025 10:50am - 11:55am EDT
Room 309

Session 1

10:50am EDT

Empowering Inclusive Instruction: A Macro Planning Framework for Administrators and Educators

Friday June 6, 2025 10:50am - 11:55am EDT

Room 507

This session equips administrators and teachers with a framework to support general and special education teams in collaboratively planning inclusive instruction. Participants will explore how to guide educators in integrating Universal Design for Learning (UDL), differentiation, and Specially Designed Instruction (SDI) into unit and lesson planning. The session will model a structured planning process that school leaders can use to facilitate team discussions, provide coaching, and ensure instruction meets the diverse needs of all learners. Attendees will leave with practical tools and strategies to implement this approach at the school or district level, fostering a culture of collaboration and equity in instruction.

Speakers

Julie Lang

Inclusion Facilitator, All in for Inclusive Education

Julie Lang is an Inclusion Facilitator for All In. She taught for 22-1/2 years in an inclusive classroom setting, and has spent the last 6-1/2 years training and coaching educators throughout the state of New Jersey. Julie holds a Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education, a... Read More →

Alyssa Rush

Supervisor of Special Education, Berkeley Heights Public Schools

Alyssa Rush, M.A., is the Supervisor of Special Education for Berkeley Heights Public Schools, where she is committed to fostering inclusive learning environments that support the success of all students. With experience as an educator, inclusion facilitator, executive function coach... Read More →

Friday June 6, 2025 10:50am - 11:55am EDT
Room 507

Session 1

10:50am EDT

Empowering Parents to Advocate for Inclusive Education

Friday June 6, 2025 10:50am - 11:55am EDT

Room 204

This presentation will equip parents and caregivers with the knowledge and tools to advocate for inclusive education. Participants will gain practical strategies for working with schools, navigating special education processes, and building strong advocacy networks. Whether you're a parent fighting for your child’s rights or an ally committed to equity in education, this session will provide actionable steps to create meaningful change.

Speakers

Monica Ahearn

IncludeNJ

Friday June 6, 2025 10:50am - 11:55am EDT
Room 204

Session 1

10:50am EDT

From Now to Next: AI Innovations in Special Education LIMITED

Friday June 6, 2025 10:50am - 11:55am EDT

Room 606

The presentation will highlight the variety of current applications of Al in special education as well as new and emerging applications. It will be an engaging workshop based on original research by the presenters.

Speakers

Dr. Dana Mason

Faculty, New Jersey City University

Dr. Dana Mason is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Educational Technology. Prior to moving into higher education, she served in various capacities of K-12 education, primarily as a STEAM educator focusing on arts and technology integration. Her research and publications... Read More →

Christopher Shamburg

Faculty, New Jersey City University

Dr. Christopher Shamburg is a professor in the Educational Technology Department at New Nersey City University and the Coordinator of the Ed.D. in Educational Technology Leadership. He is the author of several books and numerous articles on teaching, learning, and technology. He has... Read More →

Laura Zieger

Faculty, New Jersey City University

Dr. Zieger is a pioneer in the educational technology field. Her work focuses on developing, implementing, and studying technologies to scaffold learning and increase motivation. Her expertise and experience lie at the intersection of research and technology — a unique position... Read More →

Friday June 6, 2025 10:50am - 11:55am EDT
Room 606

Session 1

10:50am EDT

Inclusion 101: Debunking Myths and Misconceptions About Inclusive Education and Creating Communities of Belonging in Schools LIMITED

Friday June 6, 2025 10:50am - 11:55am EDT

Room 205

Large numbers of students with disabilities in New jersey continue to be educated in seperate environments. This workshop examines some of the most common misconceptions about the practice of inclusive education and outlines its developmental and research-based benefits for all students. Strategies for developing anti-ableist pedagogy and creating access to learning and communities of belonging will be explored.

Speakers

Priya Lalvani

Professor, Montclair State University

Dr. Priya Lalvani is Professor of disability studies at Montclair State University. She is the coordinator for the Graduate Programs in Inclusive Education. Her research focuses on families of children with disabilites and institutionalised ableism. She has published extensively... Read More →

Friday June 6, 2025 10:50am - 11:55am EDT
Room 205

Session 1

10:50am EDT

Nothing About Us Without Us - Self-Advocate Panel Discussion LIMITED

Friday June 6, 2025 10:50am - 11:55am EDT

Auditorium

During this session, Arthur and Michele will facilitate a panel discussion with self-advocates around inclusive education and inclusive adult communities. Panel participants will share both their positive and challenging experiences from an educational, social, employment, and community standpoint. Panelists will include Raritan Valley Community College Achievement Center Alumni and Committee Members.

Speakers

Bob Hulit

The Arc of Somerset

Jonathan Williams

Becky Charles Estain

Sanjit Sundar

Arthur Aston

Content Producer, All In for Inclusive Education

Arthur is a Content Producer for ALL IN. He was born with Spina Bifida. Arthur has a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a Master’s degree in Psychological Counseling. For the last eight years, he has served as the executive director of Build Jake’s Place in Pennsauken, New... Read More →

Michele Gardner

Executive Director, All In for Inclusive Education

Michele Gardner, M.Ed. is the Executive Director at All In for Inclusive Education (formerly NJCIE), joining the team in 2023 with 26 years of experience in the New Jersey public schools. Michele served a variety of roles prior to her public school retirement, including paraprofessional... Read More →

Friday June 6, 2025 10:50am - 11:55am EDT
Auditorium

Session 1

10:50am EDT

Start with the End in Mind: Tips and Tools for Addressing Requests for Close Adult Assistance and Planning to Fade It LIMITED

Friday June 6, 2025 10:50am - 11:55am EDT

Room 208

At various times students with disabilities may require adult support to access instruction, resulting in assignment of paraprofessionals. Research has shown paraprofessionals often assume too much responsibility for the student, become overprotective, inadvertently interfere with the student’s social interactions, and are sometimes viewed by parents and educators as the student’s primary teacher. Therefore, it is important to view use of a paraprofessional as a temporary measure, with plans established to fade support as much and as soon as possible to encourage independence. While a small number of published guidelines exist for determining the need for a paraprofessional, in the absence of widely accepted decision-making tools, schools are left to develop their own practices. This session is designed to provide participants with tips for doing so, as well as give access to tools that can be adapted for their own use.

Friday June 6, 2025 10:50am - 11:55am EDT
Room 208

Session 1

10:50am EDT

Supporting Inclusive School Climate Improvement with the Free NJ SCI Survey and Platform LIMITED

Friday June 6, 2025 10:50am - 11:55am EDT

Room 206

This session will introduce participants to an innovative free resource called the New Jersey School Climate Improvement (NJ SCI) Survey and Platform, developed by Rutgers University in collaboration with the New Jersey Department of Education. The NJ SCI Platform supports school and district leaders in collecting high quality school climate data, analyzing results and prioritizing needs, setting improvement goals, and developing, implementing, and monitoring a strategic plan featuring research-based strategies for improving school climate. The presentation will provide an overview of the NJ SCI Platform emphasizing tools and practices for promoting the development of inclusive environments for all students.

Speakers

Alicia Raia-Hawrylak

Project Manager, School Climate Transformation Project, Rutgers University

Alicia Raia-Hawrylak, Ph.D., is Co-Project Manager of the School Climate Transformation Project (SCTP), where she supervises the project's research and evaluation efforts. Alicia completed her Ph.D. in sociology at Rutgers University. She is a former middle school language arts teacher... Read More →

Friday June 6, 2025 10:50am - 11:55am EDT
Room 206

Session 1

10:50am EDT

Wharton is…ALL IN! A Case Study in Building an Inclusive School – Changing Mindsets, Building Capacity, and Training for Lasting Impact LIMITED

Friday June 6, 2025 10:50am - 11:55am EDT

Room 207

Join an inspiring session led by the 2025 All-In Honors Recipient, Marie V. Duffy Elementary School from Wharton, NJ. Learn about their transformative journey toward creating a more inclusive school environment, and explore how teachers and administrators collaborated during the first two years of the NJIP Grant to foster a school culture that embraces inclusivity at every level. Participants will gain valuable insights into how this school successfully shifted mindsets, built staff capacity, and strategically planned professional development to ensure sustained, positive change. Leave equipped with actionable ideas for creating a more inclusive culture in your own educational community!

Speakers

Sara Jutcovich

Inclusion Facilitator, ALL IN

Sara is an Inclusion Facilitator at NJCIE. She has ten years of classroom experience teaching in New York City. She has spent her career fostering inclusion through co-teaching. She earned her B.S. in Inclusive Elementary and Special Education from Syracuse University and then an... Read More →

Matt Morella

Marie V. Duffy Elementary School in Wharton, New Jersey

Jennifer Dunn

Marie V. Duffy Elementary School in Wharton, New Jersey

Sandrene Twyman

Marie V. Duffy Elementary School in Wharton, New Jersey

Stacy McCoy

School Psychologist, Marie V. Duffy Elementary School in Wharton, New Jersey

Jill Moran, M.S. Ed.

Special Education Teacher, Marie V. Duffy Elementary School in Wharton, New Jersey

Friday June 6, 2025 10:50am - 11:55am EDT
Room 207

Session 1

1:05pm EDT

Authentic Relational Leadership in Education LIMITED

Friday June 6, 2025 1:05pm - 2:10pm EDT

Room 507

Authentic Relational Leadership in Education: This training is designed for educators and school leaders who want to cultivate strong, authentic relationships that enhance collaboration, trust, and positive school culture. Participants will explore key relational leadership strategies, including effective communication, active listening, emotional intelligence, and leading with vulnerability and integrity. Through interactive discussions and practical exercises, attendees will learn how to build meaningful connections with students, colleagues, and stakeholders while fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment. Whether you are an administrator or an aspiring leader, this session will provide actionable strategies to strengthen your leadership impact and create a thriving educational community.

Speakers

Kory W. Kutzler

Supervisor of Special Education, Owner of Resilient Edge, LLC, Resilient Edge LLC

Kory W. Kutzler, M.Ed., MC-HS.-presenterKory W. Kutzler has 2 masters degrees, one in Special Education, and one in Counseling and Human Services. Kory has 20 years of dedicated experience in the fields of education and mental health, reflecting a deep commitment to enhancing the... Read More →

Friday June 6, 2025 1:05pm - 2:10pm EDT
Room 507

Session 2

1:05pm EDT

Differentiating with AI LIMITED

Friday June 6, 2025 1:05pm - 2:10pm EDT

Room 309

Attendees will learn how to use AI for the purposes of differentiation, with respect to best practices in working with students with special needs who are being mainstreamed.

Speakers

Adnan Ezad

Instructional Specialist in OPPET, Newark Board of Education and Time to Teach

I am a doctor of educational technology leadership and a Time to Teach Trainer. I provide my expertise with respect to using technology to replicate contexts in which content related skills are actually used and to opitmize student output while minimizing teacher work, as well as... Read More →

Friday June 6, 2025 1:05pm - 2:10pm EDT
Room 309

Session 2

1:05pm EDT

Empower, Engage, Include: Transforming Classrooms with UDL LIMITED

Friday June 6, 2025 1:05pm - 2:10pm EDT

Room 205

Unlock the power of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) to create more inclusive and engaging classrooms! This interactive workshop will provide educators with practical strategies to empower all learners by addressing learner variability and diverse needs. Participants will explore how to design flexible lessons, remove learning barriers, and foster student engagement using UDL principles. Through real-world examples and hands-on activities, attendees will leave with actionable tools to create a classroom where every student feels valued and supported. Join us to discover how UDL can transform your teaching and help every learner thrive!

Speakers

Melissa Jackson

Special Education Specialist, New Jersey Department of Education

I am a dedicated Special Education Specialist with a passion for improving educational outcomes for all learners. With over 20 years of experience in special education, teacher mentoring, and professional development, I have consistently worked to empower educators and enhance instructional... Read More →

Friday June 6, 2025 1:05pm - 2:10pm EDT
Room 205

Session 2

1:05pm EDT

Engage, Explore, Enjoy Math! LIMITED

Friday June 6, 2025 1:05pm - 2:10pm EDT

Room 204

This professional development session will help transform your math classroom into an inclusive, collaborative space for meaningful mathematical discourse. We’ll share proven strategies from Kindergarten to Algebra, using thinking tasks inspired by Liljedahl’s research and accountable talk to ignite curiosity and build a community of mathematicians. Participants will leave with practical takeaways like an accountable talk activity and ready-to-use lesson ideas that promote inclusivity. Through a rich math task and hands-on experiences, we’ll explore best practices, equipping teachers with tools to help students speak the
language of mathematics and engage in problem-solving.

Speakers

Alaina Chip

Instructional Coach, Belleville Public Schools

An experienced educator and instructional coach, Alaina Chip holds a Master’s in Learning Disabilities from Columbia University. With over 20 years in education, she has served as a district instructional coach, teacher, and leader, specializing in special education, social studies... Read More →

Annamaria Contella

Instructional Coach, Belleville Public Schools

Mathematics Educator and Instructional Coach with over 25 years of experience in diverse school settings K-12. I enjoy working collaboratively with educators to enhance their teaching practices and foster student success. I am passionate about empowering teachers to become the best... Read More →

Friday June 6, 2025 1:05pm - 2:10pm EDT
Room 204

Session 2

1:05pm EDT

Linking Inclusive K-12 Schooling to Inclusive Postsecondary Opportunities for Students with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities LIMITED

Friday June 6, 2025 1:05pm - 2:10pm EDT

Room 606

There are a growing number of students with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (IDD) in New Jersey schools expressing interest in following the life-paths of their same-aged peers, which includes attending a college or university. In this workshop, we will share a myriad of college opportunities that exist for students with IDD and discuss how school professionals, students, and families can become aware of their options, while also pre-planning for students to acquire college-readiness skills during high school and transition programs. Participants will learn how to assure young adults with ID are well-prepared to apply for and succeed in college.

Speakers

Matthew Falanga

Jessica Bacon

Associate Professor, Montclair State

Jessica Bacon, PhD, is an Associate Professor of the Department of Teaching & Learning at Montclair State University. Dr. Bacon coordinates dual certification teacher-preperation programs in Elementary and Early Childhood Inclusive Education. With Susan Baglieri, she is the Co-founder... Read More →

Kathryn Leonard

Director, Certificate in General Education Studies, Montclair State University

Kathryn Leonard is the Director of the Certificate in General Education Studies (CGES) program at Montclair State University, which supports students with intellectual disabilities in accessing an inclusive college experience. Kathryn has worked with people with disabilities and... Read More →

Friday June 6, 2025 1:05pm - 2:10pm EDT
Room 606

Session 2

1:05pm EDT

Planting Seeds: Teacher Agency in the Cultivation of Culturally Responsive Classrooms LIMITED

Friday June 6, 2025 1:05pm - 2:10pm EDT

Room 206

Cultivating culturally responsive classrooms begins with school leaders fostering teacher agency as a catalyst for change. This presentation will explore how school leaders can empower teachers to take ownership of their instructional practices, leading to inclusive, student-centered learning environments. Participants will examine strategies for engaging teachers in a hands-on process to embed culturally responsive pedagogy into daily instruction, foster meaningful student connections, and advocate for equitable school policies. Through interactive discussions and hands-on activities, school leaders will leave with practical tools to nurture teacher agency, plant the seeds of inclusivity, and cultivate lasting change across their schools

Speakers

Lisa B. Torres, Ed.D.

Supervisor of English & Social Studies, River Dell Regional Schools

Dr. Lisa Torres is a District Supervisor with 31 years of experience in education, serving as a teacher, administrator, and adjunct instructor. Committed to equity and instructional excellence, she prioritizes culturally responsive teaching, instructional innovation, and... Read More →

Nicole M. Adams, M.S.Ed, M.A.Ed

Assistant Principal, Hackensack Public Schools

Nicole Adams is the Assistant Principal at Hackensack High School with over 20 years in education as a teacher, administrator, and adjunct instructor. Committed to student-centered learning, she champions restorative practices, culturally responsive pedagogy... Read More →

Friday June 6, 2025 1:05pm - 2:10pm EDT
Room 206

Session 2

1:05pm EDT

The Intersection of Developmentally Appropriate Practices and Accessibility: A School District's Journey to Creating an Inclusive Preschool Learning Environment LIMITED

Friday June 6, 2025 1:05pm - 2:10pm EDT

Room 207

This workshop delves into Cranford School District’s transformative journey toward establishing an inclusive and developmentally appropriate learning environment for preschool children. Participants will gain insights into the strategies, challenges, and successes encountered while implementing practices catering to young learners' diverse developmental needs. The session aims to inspire and equip educators, administrators, and stakeholders with practical knowledge to foster similar initiatives within their own contexts.

Speakers

Kristin Szawan, MSW, LSW, Ed.S.

Director of Student Services, Cranford Public Schools

Annie Corley-Hand

Director, Leading Innovative Learning Associates, LLC

Annie Corley-Hand is a distinguished educational leader with a Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education and a Master of Arts in Educational Leadership. As a Preschool through Grade 2 school principal, she championed multiple initiatives within her district, including inclusion... Read More →

Robyn Park

Supervisor Special Education Preschool - Grade 5, Cranford School District

Will be added

Celine McNally

Principal, Cranford School District

Will be added

Friday June 6, 2025 1:05pm - 2:10pm EDT
Room 207

Session 2

1:05pm EDT

Two IDEA Essentials for Inclusion: Placements + Supplementary Aids & Services LIMITED

Friday June 6, 2025 1:05pm - 2:10pm EDT

Room 208

This session brings abstract policy into tangible practice using film, photos, and real-life examples. Participants will enhance their capacity to leverage placement + supplementary aids and services to achieve the promise of IDEA: a sense of belonging and participation by students with disabilities, in the classes and school they would attend if they did not have a disability. Practical and usable resources, tools, and guides included!

Speakers

Michael McSheehan

Owner/TA Provider, Evolve & Effect

Friday June 6, 2025 1:05pm - 2:10pm EDT
Room 208

Session 2

1:05pm EDT

What Does Inclusive Education Look Like for My Child (Parent Panel) LIMITED

Friday June 6, 2025 1:05pm - 2:10pm EDT

Auditorium

Join us for a candid and insightful discussion with parents who have successfully navigated the journey of inclusive education. This panel will share personal experiences, challenges, and victories in advocating for their children’s right to learn alongside their peers.

Speakers

Vikas Jain

IncludeNJ

Vera J. Piasecki

Chair of Board, IncludeNJ

Christina Fam Faragalla, MS

Katherine Kelly

IncludeNJ

Mandeep Kwatra

Friday June 6, 2025 1:05pm - 2:10pm EDT
Auditorium

Session 2

1:05pm EDT

Windows, Mirrors, and Sliding Doors: Reflecting Disability, Opening Possibilities in K-12 Education LIMITED

Friday June 6, 2025 1:05pm - 2:10pm EDT

Room 109

This engaging workshop utilizes Dr. Rudine Sims Bishop's powerful metaphor of windows, mirrors, and sliding doors to examine the critical role of representing people with disabilities in creating an inclusive K-12 ecosystem. Moving beyond mere compliance and tokenistic inclusion, we delve into the profound impact of showcasing the diverse contributions, lived experiences, and perspectives of individuals with disabilities across the curriculum and school culture.

Speakers

Camy Kobylinski

Associate Director, Professional Development and Instructional Issues, New Jersey Education Association (NJEA)

To be added.

Dr. Kim Pinckney

Associate Director, Professional Development & Instructional Issues, Consortium Coordinator, New Jersey Education Association (NJEA)

Dr. Pinckney is an inovative Design Thinker, Inclusion Advocate, Coalition of Parent and Attroney Advocates (COPAA) member, and Instructional Design & Technology Leader. She is a former K-12 Spanish Educatorand Intelligence Community (IC) civil servant. She currently serves as an... Read More →

Friday June 6, 2025 1:05pm - 2:10pm EDT
Room 109

Session 2

2:25pm EDT

Beyond the Basics: Responding to Diverse Behavioral Needs with a “Layered Approach” LIMITED

Friday June 6, 2025 2:25pm - 3:30pm EDT

Room 309

Research indicates that in recent years problem behaviors at school have increased significantly since pre-pandemic levels. Many students still appear to be developmentally behind in socialization, self-regulation and other executive functioning skills, often resulting in misbehavior. Now more than ever teachers need effective tools to address these changing needs of their students, rather than relying on "traditional" classroom management and discipline practices. This session is designed to help participants apply a layered or tiered approach to selecting evidence-based behavioral interventions to integrate into classroom management plans so that all learners can be successful. Participants will also be given tools they can use to evaluate their existing class behavioral supports, structures, and systems.

Speakers

Michelle Lockwood

Vice President, All In for Inclusive Education

Michelle Lockwood, M.S., Vice President of All In for Inclusive Education, has over 26 years of professional experience in providing training and assistance to professionals involved in supporting individuals with disabilities across the state of New Jersey (as well as in Pennsylvania... Read More →

Friday June 6, 2025 2:25pm - 3:30pm EDT
Room 309

Session 3

2:25pm EDT

Co-Teaching: Mutual Decision-Making and Shared Responsibility LIMITED

Friday June 6, 2025 2:25pm - 3:30pm EDT

Room 207

In this comprehensive session on co-teaching, we will explore a variety of co-teaching models and delve into practical strategies that foster effective collaboration between educators. Attendees will learn how to implement key procedures and routines that are crucial for ensuring smooth and efficient co-teaching environments. We will focus on the importance of collaborative planning, highlighting specific tools and approaches that encourage mutual decision-making and shared responsibility in the classroom. Additionally, participants will gain insights into classroom management strategies that ensure both teachers maintain an equal level of involvement and authority, promoting a balanced and inclusive learning environment for all students. By the end of the session, attendees will be equipped with the knowledge and skills to create a cohesive and successful co-teaching partnership that benefits both teachers and students.

Speakers

Lauren Baldino

Inclusion Facilitator, All In for Inclusive Education

Lauren Baldino, Ed.D., is an Inclusion Facilitator at NJCIE. She earned her MA in Motor Learning and Control, with a focus on improving abilities of children with cerebral palsy, and her Ed.D. in Curriculum and Teaching in Physical Education, with a focus on inclusive practices in... Read More →

Friday June 6, 2025 2:25pm - 3:30pm EDT
Room 207

Session 3

2:25pm EDT

Enhancing Student Success: The Power of Progress Monitoring LIMITED

Friday June 6, 2025 2:25pm - 3:30pm EDT

Room 206

Effective progress monitoring is a critical component of special education, providing educators with valuable insights into student performance and informing instructional decisions. This workshop aims to equip special education professionals with the knowledge, tools, and strategies needed to implement effective progress monitoring practices. Participants will learn how to collect, analyze, and utilize data to tailor instruction to meet the unique needs of each student, ultimately fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment.

Speakers

Laura Martinez

Inclusion Facilitator, All In for Inclusive Education

Laura Martinez is an Inclusion Facilitator for All In. She is an experienced Special Education professional with a proven track record of supporting diverse learners and fostering inclusive educational environments. She earned her M.S.Ed. in Special Education from The City College... Read More →

Friday June 6, 2025 2:25pm - 3:30pm EDT
Room 206

Session 3

2:25pm EDT

From Resource Room to Inclusion: A Data-Driven Journey to 6th Grade In-Class Support LIMITED

Friday June 6, 2025 2:25pm - 3:30pm EDT

Room 205

In this session, we will explore the steps our district took to transition from a traditional resource room model to a fully inclusive in-class resource program for 6th grade. Participants will gain insight into the planning, professional development, and collaborative efforts required to implement this shift, as well as the challenges faced along the way. We will share key data demonstrating the impact on student achievement, engagement, and overall success.

Speakers

Kristen Battaglia

Michelle Howell

Heidi Becker

School Social Worker, Roselle Park Public Schools

Heidi Becker is a Licensed Social Worker with over 25 years of experience in the field. After obtaining her Masters degree at Rutgers University - New Brunswick, with a concentration in Children and Families, Heidi worked at a private special education school for behavioral disabilities... Read More →

Heather Gilgallon

Director of Special Services, Roselle Park Public Schools

Heather Gilgallon is currently the Director of Special Services at Roselle Park Schools. She is an advocate for inclusive education and student well-being, with a career dedicated to creating supportive learning environments for all students. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with... Read More →

Patricia Gois

Superintendent, Roselle Park Public Schools

Patricia A. Gois has dedicated 25 years to education, beginning her career in private schools before transitioning to public education. A former bilingual student who arrived in the U.S. at age 10, she was driven by a passion to ensure that all students have a voice. Before finding... Read More →

Michelle Queiruga

Middle School Principal, Roselle Park Public Schools

Ms. Queiruga began her career as a Middle School Bilingual Language Arts and Social Studies Teacher. In 2022, she became the Vice Principal at Roselle Park Middle School and was promoted to Principal in 2023. She is proud to represent Roselle Park School District and its commitment... Read More →

Friday June 6, 2025 2:25pm - 3:30pm EDT
Room 205

Session 3

2:25pm EDT

High-Leverage Practices: A Pathway to Inclusive Success LIMITED

Friday June 6, 2025 2:25pm - 3:30pm EDT

Room 507

In this interactive session, educators will explore the critical role of high-leverage practices (HLPs) in creating and supporting inclusive classrooms. Through practical strategies and real-world examples, educators will learn how to apply HLPs to foster student success, promote collaboration, and ensure all students thrive in inclusive settings. This training will empower special education teachers with the tools to enhance their teaching and drive meaningful inclusion in every classroom. This session will provide effective and meaningful strategies to help you create pathways to success for all students.

Speakers

Sara Jutcovich

Inclusion Facilitator, ALL IN

Friday June 6, 2025 2:25pm - 3:30pm EDT
Room 507

Session 3

2:25pm EDT

Legal and Policy Challenges in Special Education: Ensuring Compliance and Advocacy LIMITED

Friday June 6, 2025 2:25pm - 3:30pm EDT

Room 109

This presentation will explore the complex legal and policy landscape surrounding special education, with a focus on compliance and advocacy. It will provide an overview of key federal and state laws, including the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, and discuss common challenges schools and families face in ensuring students with disabilities receive appropriate educational services.

Speakers

Judith Gran

Judith Gran, Esq. is a partner in the law firm Reisman Carolla Gran LLP, specializing in disability law. She has a national practice focused on disability rights and has represented clients in more than a half dozen states in disputes over inclusion and community service plans... Read More →

Heather Kumor

IncludeNJ

Julie A. Kennedy, Esq.

Attorney, Bercik Law

Friday June 6, 2025 2:25pm - 3:30pm EDT
Room 109

Session 3

2:25pm EDT

Restorative Practices for All: Fostering Inclusion, Connection, and a Sense of Belonging LIMITED

Friday June 6, 2025 2:25pm - 3:30pm EDT

Room 204

This workshop explores how restorative practices can create inclusive learning environments where all students feel valued, heard, and connected. Participants will learn strategies to build a strong sense of belonging, foster meaningful relationships, and address conflict through a restorative lens. Through interactive discussions and practical tools, educators will leave with actionable steps to cultivate a supportive classroom culture that embraces the strengths and voices of all learners.

Speakers

Brittany Seeley

Program Director, ALL IN

Brittany Seeley is a program director for ALL IN. She earned her M.Ed. in Special Education from East Stroudsburg University with a Supervisory and Administrative Certification. She has over 13 years of experience in working with students K-12 with significant emotional, behavioral... Read More →

Friday June 6, 2025 2:25pm - 3:30pm EDT
Room 204

Session 3

2:25pm EDT

Transitioning the AAC User to Adulthood: Goals, Implementation and Equipment LIMITED

Friday June 6, 2025 2:25pm - 3:30pm EDT

Room 606

Transitioning from the school setting to adult programming presents many challenges for AAC Users, their families and their clinical/educational team. This webinar will highlight different goals and implementation strategies that need to be considered when helping students who use AAC through this important transition. In addition, vocabulary considerations will be discussed. Finally, how and when to obtain AAC equipment and services through the adult system will be demystified.

Speakers

Barbra Seltzer, M.S., CCC-SLP, ATP

Owner/Director and Speech/Language Pathologist, Access Communication and Therapy, LLC

Barbra Seltzer, M.S.,CCC-SLP, ATP is a Speech/Language Pathologist with more than 30 years of experience working with children and adults with complex communication needs. She has worked in a variety of settings and currently works in private practice... Read More →

Kate Flaxman, M.S., CCC-SLP

AAC Specialist, Advancing Opportunities

Kate Flaxman M.S. CCC-SLP is an Augmentative Communication Specialist with Advancing Opportunities. She has had a diversified experience working with individuals with complex communication needs who benefit from AAC in early intervention, schools, adult placement settings, homes... Read More →

Friday June 6, 2025 2:25pm - 3:30pm EDT
Room 606

Session 3

2:25pm EDT

Two PRACTICE Essentials for Inclusion: Aligning Supports and Embedding Instruction LIMITED

Friday June 6, 2025 2:25pm - 3:30pm EDT

Room 208

We will explore two key inclusive practices: 1) a new lens for examining and designing student supports aligned with inclusive education, and 2) easy-to-use methods for intensifying instruction in general education to reduce the burdens of pull-out intervention. Participants will practice with real-life examples to determine if the supports used are universal, aligned, alternate, or restrictive. Participants will be introduced to five methods for intensifying and embedding instruction in Tier 1 by leveraging EMMET: Educators, Methods, Materials, Environment, and Time. Practical and usable resources, tools, and guides included!

Speakers

Michael McSheehan

Owner/TA Provider, Evolve & Effect

Friday June 6, 2025 2:25pm - 3:30pm EDT
Room 208

Session 3