Using Data to Advocate for Inclusive Education and Policy Change

Think Inclusive

About the Guest(s):

Liz Zogby is a dedicated advocate in the special education and disability space based in Baltimore City. She is the co-chair of the Maryland Down Syndrome Advocacy Coalition (MDAC) and the Special Education Policy and Advocacy Project. Liz also co-chairs the special education workgroup with the state superintendent under the Maryland State Department of Education. Her advocacy efforts are deeply personal, inspired by her daughter Hope, who has Down syndrome.

Steven Davis is a policy advocate focused on special education reform. He resides in California, has a background in mathematics, and is known for his analytical approach to education data. Steven is dedicated to improving local policy advocacy infrastructures in his community. He founded Disability Almanac and actively engages in discussions and actions to enhance educational inclusivity for children with disabilities.

Episode Summary:

Join Tim Villegas on the Think Inclusive Podcast as he hosts Liz Zogby and Steven Davis to explore the crucial intersection of data and special education advocacy. Both guests bring a wealth of knowledge and personal experience as parents of children with disabilities, which fuels their passion and dedication to inclusive education practices.

In this compelling episode, Liz and Steven share their journeys into the world of special education advocacy, underscored by a deep dive into the use of data to inform and drive policy changes. Liz discusses her initiatives in Maryland and how understanding and leveraging data can shift legislative perspectives. Steven provides a critical look at the alarming statistics surrounding inclusion rates in California, emphasizing the need for high expectations and proper resource allocation. Together, they highlight the importance of combining both data and personal stories to make a significant impact on educational reform.

Transcript: https://otter.ai/u/FFx3Ms0th62yMOHjGYBECmtcgPY

Key Takeaways:

• The Role of Data in Advocacy: How Liz and Steven use data on inclusion rates to inform and drive policy changes.
• Systemic Challenges: Steven's insights into California's dismal inclusion statistics and his efforts to build better local advocacy infrastructures.
• Personal and Statistical Storytelling: The importance of merging personal stories with data for effective advocacy.
• Actionable Strategies for Educators: Recommendations for educators on understanding and utilizing data to support inclusive practices.
• Parent Empowerment: Encouragement for parents to use their expertise about their children in IEP meetings and advocacy.

Resources:

National Council of Disability PDF: https://www.ncd.gov/assets/uploads/docs/ncd-segregation-swd-508.pdf

How to Find a School District’s LRE %: https://mcie.org/think-inclusive/how-to-find-a-school-districts-least-restrictive-environment-percentage/

Thank you to our sponsor, IXL: Learn more at https://ixl.com/inclusive

MCIE: https://www.mcie.org

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