2024 TASH Conference: Full Schedule

Welcome to the official website for the 2024 TASH Conference!

Each year, the TASH Conference brings together our constituents to share resources and success stories, learn about field-driven best practices, and network within a community engaged in shared values. The Conference is attended by passionate leaders, experts, and advocates from every corner of the disability community. Conference attendees are influential in their fields and communities, and play an important role in the provision of services and supports for individuals and organizations around the world; and include professors and researchers from leading institutions; those involved in local, state, and federal governments and public policy; special and general educators, and school administrators; self-advocates, adult service providers; students, family members, and many others. This year’s conference theme is Celebrate Together: Let the Good Times Roll!

Click on the "Registration and More" tab for additional information about our Conference location, registration, reserving a guest room, sponsorship and exhibitor opportunities, and more! The full Conference schedule is now available for viewing. Registered attendees will receive an invitation to log in and create a personalized schedule.

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7:00am CST

Information Center

Thursday December 5, 2024 7:00am - 6:00pm CST

3RD Floor - Celestin Foyer

Information Center is place to ask for assistance, questions, or anything in between. Also, if you ordered a t-shirt you can pick it up here. If you need to purchase a t-shirt ($20), we accept cash (exact amount only), CASHAPP, or Venmo.

Thursday December 5, 2024 7:00am - 6:00pm CST
3RD Floor - Celestin Foyer Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113

Information Center

7:00am CST

Membership Center

Thursday December 5, 2024 7:00am - 6:00pm CST

3RD Floor - Celestin Foyer

Not a member - you can join today!
If you are a member, and need to renew

Have a question or want to get involved, we can help!

Enter a chance to win the 2024 Conference Raffle Prize: Hotel to provide a Gift Certificate for One (1) complimentary room for 2 nights with breakfast for two (2) persons! Winner will be drawn Saturday, December 7 at 1:00 PM CST

Thursday December 5, 2024 7:00am - 6:00pm CST
3RD Floor - Celestin Foyer Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113

Membership Center

7:00am CST

Registration Center

Thursday December 5, 2024 7:00am - 6:00pm CST

3RD Floor - Celestin Foyer

Welcome to the 2024 TASH Conference! Beat the rush; Stop by the registration center to check-in and receive your name badge! We request that name badges are worn at all times while attending the Conference.

Thursday December 5, 2024 7:00am - 6:00pm CST
3RD Floor - Celestin Foyer Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113

Registration Center

8:00am CST

TASH 2024 Silent Auction

Thursday December 5, 2024 8:00am - 8:00am CST

3RD Floor - Storyville Hall

Join us at the 2024 TASH Conference Silent Auction! This special event will showcase a range of items and experiences. The best part? Every dollar raised directly supports TASH's national advocacy efforts and the Early Career Research Network. We encourage you to participate, bid, and be a part of our mission to create a more inclusive world. Visit the Storyville Hall (Level 3) on Friday, December 6th, anytime between 8am and 6:30 PM ET to explore the array of fun and unique items available!

Thursday December 5, 2024 8:00am - 8:00am CST
3RD Floor - Storyville Hall Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113

Silent Auction

8:00am CST

Early Career and Doctoral Student Pre-Conference

Thursday December 5, 2024 8:00am - 12:00pm CST

4TH Floor - Imperial 5D

Early Career and Doctoral Student Pre-Conference

Katie McCabe: Introductions

8:00-8:50
TASH Through the Decades: Empowering the Future to Preserve a Legacy of Advocacy and Inclusion
Moderator: Diane Ryndak
-Fred Spooner
-Kathy Gee
-Amanda Miller
-Jessica Bacon

9:00-9:50
Navigating the Balance Between Teaching and Research
Moderator: Peg Duffie
-Natalie Andzik
-Amy Andersen
-Samantha Gross Toews

9:00-9:50
Networking, Ghosting, and Everything in Between
Moderator: Sarah Hudler
-Virginia Walker
-Jessica McQueston
-Magen Rooney-Kron
-Debbie Taub

10:00-10:50
Thriving and Surviving: Essential Strategies for Navigating the Early Years in Academia and Beyond
Moderator: Lindsay Athamanah
-Kristin Burnette
-Emily Malouf
-Alison Zagona

10:00-10:50
Shifting the Model: Centering Disabled People in Teacher Education
Moderator: Becca Heinze
-Jen Newton

11:00-11:50
How to Research What you Really Care About
Moderator: Andie Sweetman
-Kristen Lansey
-Grace Francis
-Andrea Ruppar
-Jenny Kurth

Moderators

Peg Duffie

Rebecca Heinze

University of Arizona

Sarah Hudler

The Ohio State University

Katie McCabe

Assistant Professor, Buffalo State University

Katie McCabe is an Assistant Professor in the Exceptional Education Department at Buffalo State University, with a Ph.D. in Special Education and a minor in Qualitative Research Methods from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. A former special education teacher in rural Upstate New... Read More →

Diane Ryndak

Professor, University of North Carolina at Greensboro

Andie Sweetman

Presenters

Jen Newton

Ohio University

Grace Francis

Assistant Professor, Special Education, George Mason University

Andrea Ruppar

The University of Wisconsin-Madison

I'm an Associate Professor of Special Education at University of Wisconsin-Madison. I study educational decision making for students with extensive support needs.

Jennifer Kurth

Professor, University of Kansas

Inclusive Education

Alison Zagona

Assistant Professor, University of Kansas - Department of Special Education

I am a researcher and special education teacher educator, and I am passionate about advocating for inclusive educational experiences for students with extensive support needs.

Emily Malouf

Research Scholar, Vanderbilt University

Kristen Lansey

Assistant Professor, University of Arizona

Kirsten Lansey (she/her), Ph.D., is an Assistant Professor of special education. Her overarching goal is to conduct research, teaching, and service that contributes to systemic educational change so that students with complex support needs receive inclusive and equitable learning... Read More →

Kristin Burnette

Assistant Professor, East Carolina University

Fred Spooner

Professor, University of North Carolina at Charlotte

Fred Spooner is Professor of Special Education at UNC Charlotte. Dr. Spooner has researched and written about instructional strategies for students with severe disabilities since the 1980s. Recently, he has focused on alternate assessment and linking both assessment and instruction... Read More →

Kathy Gee

Professor, California State University, Sacramento

inclusive education, meaningful access to core curriculum; augmentative communication; PBIS; elementary and secondary education; resaerch

Amanda Miller

Jessica Bacon

Montclair State University

Thursday December 5, 2024 8:00am - 12:00pm CST
4TH Floor - Imperial 5D Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113

Meetings

8:00am CST

Early Career and Doctoral Student Pre-Conference

Thursday December 5, 2024 8:00am - 12:00pm CST

4TH Floor - Imperial 5C

Moderators

Lindsay Athamanah

Assistant Professor, University of Missouri - St. Louis

Peg Duffie

Rebecca Heinze

University of Arizona

Sarah Hudler

The Ohio State University

Katie McCabe

Assistant Professor, Buffalo State University

Diane Ryndak

Professor, University of North Carolina at Greensboro

Andie Sweetman

Presenters

Amy Andersen

Associate Professor, Winona State University

Natalie Andzik

Associate Professor, Northern Illinois University

Dr. Natalie Andzik is an Associate Professor in the Department of Special and Early Education at Northern Illinois University. Natalie's research interest grew from her experiences as a special educator in California. There, she worked with students with mild to significant disabilities... Read More →

Jessica Bacon

Montclair State University

Kristin Burnette

Assistant Professor, East Carolina University

Kathy Gee

Professor, California State University, Sacramento

inclusive education, meaningful access to core curriculum; augmentative communication; PBIS; elementary and secondary education; resaerch

Emily Malouf

Research Scholar, Vanderbilt University

Jessica McQueston

Assistant Professor, Sam Houston State University

Amanda Miller

Jen Newton

Ohio University

Magen Rooney-Kron

Assistant Professor, University of Missouri, St. Louis

Magen is an assistant professor of inclusive education at the University of Missouri-St. Louis. Her research focuses on the inclusion of students with significant support needs in work-based learning experiences.

Fred Spooner

Professor, University of North Carolina at Charlotte

Deborah Taub

Owner/CEO, OTL Education Solutions, LLC

Samantha Gross Toews

Assistant Professor, Cal State University Northridge

Samantha Toews is an assistant professor at California State University Northridge in the Special Education Department. She was previously a special education teacher at WISH Charter School. Her research focusses teacher preparation and professional development to promote inclusive... Read More →

Virginia Walker

Professor, UNC Charlotte

Alison Zagona

Assistant Professor, University of Kansas - Department of Special Education

I am a researcher and special education teacher educator, and I am passionate about advocating for inclusive educational experiences for students with extensive support needs.

Thursday December 5, 2024 8:00am - 12:00pm CST
4TH Floor - Imperial 5C Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113

Meetings

8:00am CST

Quiet / Wellness Room

Thursday December 5, 2024 8:00am - 6:00pm CST

4TH Floor - Reliance 2

A low-sensory relaxation room is available for all TASH conference attendees located at Hyatt Regency; Reliance 2 (4th Floor).

Thursday December 5, 2024 8:00am - 6:00pm CST
4TH Floor - Reliance 2 Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113

Quiet / Wellness Room

8:59am CST

Concurrent Day 1 Intensive Workshops (Pre-Conference) Please Read

Thursday December 5, 2024 8:59am - 5:00pm CST

Hyatt Regency New Orleans

Intensive pre-conference workshop are short-course workshops delivered by teams of presenters around a particular topic in a pre-assigned room: session length varies from 1.5 - 3 hours. Workshops allow attendees to take take a deeper dive into popular topics in more depth. Day 1 Intensive workshops takes place on Thursday only.

Thursday December 5, 2024 8:59am - 5:00pm CST
Hyatt Regency New Orleans 601 Loyola Ave, New Orleans, LA 70113, USA

Day 1 Intensive Workshops

9:00am CST

Quality Indicators of Inclusive School Leadership

Thursday December 5, 2024 9:00am - 11:30am CST

3RD Floor - Ballroom: Celestin G

This session will highlight the quality indicators of school and district leadership that promote and sustain inclusive schools. Participants will explore these indicators: 1) Communicate a Vision 2) Distributive Leadership among Team Members 3) Model and Plan for Collaboration/Co-Teaching 4) Use Data to Develop and Implement a Strategic Plan 5) Model and Encourage Inclusive Language and Practices An interactive process will be used to engage with each indicator using scenarios and examples from the experiences of leaders in districts and schools across the country. These scenarios will serve as the foundation for discussion, assessing readiness, and action planning toward realizing the full and meaningful inclusion of learners with disabilities in general education within their neighborhood schools. Participants will leave with an understanding of each indicator as well as a plan for implementation in their respective district and/or school.

Moderators

Carolyn Teigland

Presenters

Brittni Sammons

Professional Learning Coordinator, Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education

Brittni joined MCIE in 2023 as a Professional Learning Coordinator after over 20 years in education with Calvert County Public Schools (CCPS). She has served as a Special Educator, Assistant Principal, Inclusive Education Facilitator, and Supervisor of Instructional Performance. Throughout... Read More →

Thursday December 5, 2024 9:00am - 11:30am CST
3RD Floor - Ballroom: Celestin G Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113

Day 1 Intensive Workshops

Primary Topic Inclusive Education
Themes of Interest K-12 Education
Key Words Education, Leadership, Systems Change, K-12 Education

9:00am CST

Inclusive Literacy Planning: Reaching All Learners Through Universal Design

Thursday December 5, 2024 9:00am - 12:00pm CST

3RD Floor - Ballroom: Celestin A

In this interactive presentation, Inclusion Facilitators from New Jersey Coalition for Inclusive Education will guide participants through a thoughtful literacy planning process using the Universal Design for Learning framework. Participants will explore effective strategies for designing literacy instruction to meet the range of diverse learners in an inclusive general education setting. Participants will learn how inclusive design will enhance their teaching as well as how it will greatly impact student learning and progress. This session is applicable to all K-12 educators.

Moderators

Sara Jutcovich

All In For Inclusive Education

Presenters

Julie Lang

All In For Inclusive Education

Thursday December 5, 2024 9:00am - 12:00pm CST
3RD Floor - Ballroom: Celestin A Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113

Day 1 Intensive Workshops

Primary Topic Inclusive Education
Themes of Interest Universal Design
Key Words K-12 Education, High Expectations, Research to Practice, Universal Design

9:00am CST

Overcoming Implementation Barriers: UDL For Adults

Thursday December 5, 2024 9:00am - 12:00pm CST

3RD Floor - Ballroom: Celestin C

According to Everett Rogers â€œDiffusion of Innovationsâ€ we know that adults will not all implement change at the same time and in the same way. Instead of feeling frustrated or defeated by this fact, this session is designed to support leaders to plan for the variability of adults through applying and explicitly modeling the Universal Design for Learning. Participants will learn, network, and plan universally designed communication plans, universally design adult learning, and ensuring adults in their systems have multiple entry points for engaging improving and increasing inclusionary practices.

Moderators

Cassie Stevens

NWESD

Thursday December 5, 2024 9:00am - 12:00pm CST
3RD Floor - Ballroom: Celestin C Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113

Day 1 Intensive Workshops

Primary Topic Inclusive Education
Themes of Interest Capacity Building for Inclusion
Key Words K-12 Education, Capacity Building for Inclusion, Systems Change, Universally Designed Systems, Adult Learners

9:00am CST

Person Centered Planning and Website Portfolios in Action

Thursday December 5, 2024 9:00am - 12:00pm CST

2ND Floor - Foster 2

Are you feeling stuck? Are you looking for new tools to expand possibility for students & job seekers? This workshop offers hands-on practice using Person Centered Planning tools to develop Website Portfolios for students & job seekers. The goal is to get unstuck, here's how. We'll start with the best practice of Person Centered Planning. Attendees will practice using tools to expand on skills and contributions, integrating a strengths-based approach. We will dig deep to develop strategies for success in education and employment, and then think creatively about new possibilities.

Next, we'll explore how to use the information effectively. The second half of the workshop dives into creating website portfolios, which are dynamic resumes and marketing tools showcasing skills, experiences, and achievements. Attendees will set up accounts on Wix Tomorrow, a free platform for educators, and explore tools and editor functions, including generative AI, to develop a sample website. So kick off TASH with us and let the good times roll!

Check out some sample website portfolios below:
Roshini's Website Portfolio
Hasen's Website Portfolio

Presenters

Alison DeYoung

Training & Technical Assistance Manager, Wise

Alison DeYoung has worked in the field of transition and employment since 2008 in various roles as a direct support provider, job developer and special education teacher. She worked as the Lead Instructor of Campus Life with Project FOCUS at the University of Arizona, a model demonstration... Read More →

Katherine Titus

Senior TA and Training Manager, Wise

I am interested in talking with people about efforts to dismantle ableist systems, Nothing About Us Without Us efforts, my cats, and college football.

Thursday December 5, 2024 9:00am - 12:00pm CST
2ND Floor - Foster 2 Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113

Day 1 Intensive Workshops

Primary Topic Employment
Themes of Interest Technology
Key Words Person-Centered Planning, Employment, Autonomy, Transition, Capacity Building
Presentation Type General

10:00am CST

30+ Years of Self-Advocacy: Sharing Successes, Strategies and Stories

Thursday December 5, 2024 10:00am - 12:00pm CST

3RD Floor - Ballroom: Celestin H

Join Project ACTION!, DCâ€™s self-advocacy coalition, to explore successful advocacy strategies to ensure your voice is heard as you advocate to shape the services you receive, in your relationships, to get high-quality healthcare, in your workplace, and to create partnerships. Using their 30+ years of experience, Project ACTION! members will engage participants in discussions, role plays and leadership training activities using strategies they found useful so people can represent their own interests and the interests of others. Project ACTION! members will share their experiences working with advisors and serving on over 30 boards, committees and workgroups focused on systems change, human rights and policy development. In this interactive session, learn how to identify decision-making boards on which you want to be represented, lead your individual service planning meeting, advocate for the support you might need to effectively serve on boards, recruit members and allies, and more.

Moderators

Rebecca Salon

Presenters

Thelma Green

Treasurer, Project ACTION!

Thelma Green is the Treasurer and Past Co-President of Project ACTION!, the District’s self-advocacy coalition of adults with developmental disabilities. Green is a strong self-advocate who has trained locally and across the country on a variety of topics including supported decision-making... Read More →

Leonard Stevens

Project ACTION!

Vanessa Monroe

Executive Member, Project ACTION!

Vanessa Monroe is a District of Columbia resident and Project ACTION! member. Vanessa is also a talented artist who works of out Art Enables studios in Washington, DC. She has sold many of her art pieces. She is also a strong self-advocate and speaks up for issues that are of... Read More →

Tiffany Yuille

Project ACTION!

Ricardo Thornton

Executive Member, Project ACTION!

Donna Thornton is a strong self-advocate and presenter. She worked for over 30 years at the National Institutes of Health and retired in 2018. She is a passionate mentor to people new to self-advocacy. She believes everyone should have the right and supports to pursue a career... Read More →

Thomas Mangrum

Co-President, Project ACTION!

Thomas Mangrum, Jr., is a strong communicator and self-advocate who is passionate about helping others to be the best they can be. He loves learning new information and sharing it with other self-advocates, his friends and neighbors. He is an excellent presenter having trained locally... Read More →

Thursday December 5, 2024 10:00am - 12:00pm CST
3RD Floor - Ballroom: Celestin H Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113

Day 1 Intensive Workshops

Primary Topic Self-Advocacy
Themes of Interest Self-Determination
Key Words Self-Advocacy, Empowerment, Self-Determination, Rights, Relationships

10:00am CST

Elevating Person-Centered: Intersectionality, Identity, and Inclusion

Thursday December 5, 2024 10:00am - 12:00pm CST

2ND Floor - Foster 1

When organizations conduct Person Centered Plans and approaches, they historically only focus on the individual's strengths and weaknesses, skills and abilities, and similar characteristics. But what are we missing? What other nuances and complexities are we leaving out? How are we developing and evolving the conversation and the work? This session will explore intersectionality and identity of the individual to fully embrace a Person-Centered Approach. There will be conversations in a world cafe style that will give participants the opportunity to have discussions on ideas and strategies to be more person-centered with a DEI lens.

Moderators

Wally Tablit

Thursday December 5, 2024 10:00am - 12:00pm CST
2ND Floor - Foster 1 Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113

Day 1 Intensive Workshops

Primary Topic Diversity and Social Impact
Themes of Interest Person Centered Practice
Key Words Intersectionality, Diversity and inclusion

1:00pm CST

How to Write and Review For Inclusive Practices

Thursday December 5, 2024 1:00pm - 3:00pm CST

4TH Floor - Imperial 5C

Presenters

Andrea Ruppar

The University of Wisconsin-Madison

I'm an Associate Professor of Special Education at University of Wisconsin-Madison. I study educational decision making for students with extensive support needs.

Jennifer Kurth

Professor, University of Kansas

Inclusive Education

Thursday December 5, 2024 1:00pm - 3:00pm CST
4TH Floor - Imperial 5C Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113

Day 1 Intensive Workshops

1:00pm CST

A Roadmap to Engaging & Accessible Inclusive Education

Thursday December 5, 2024 1:00pm - 4:00pm CST

3RD Floor - Ballroom: Celestin C

In this session, participants will examine research surrounding inclusive practices and brainstorm how to address potential roadblocks for supporting inclusion of students with complex needs. Participants will understand how to better support all students with accessing the general education curriculum. An example of a planning process for breaking down standards into key components and engagement strategies will be explored for various subjects and grade levels. To solidify their knowledge, participants will be given a standard and student scenario, as well as the big ideas, essential vocabulary, and major skills. Participants will then work in small groups to select engagement strategies to support their studentâ€™s access and participation. Groups will share their selected engagement strategies with the whole group. Participants will create an engagement tool to be used with their students.

Moderators

Constance Alphonse

LASARD Facilitator, Louisiana UCEDD

Presenters

Ali Kowitz

Director of Education Transition and Community Initiatives, Louisiana UCEDD

Chris Champagne

Program Facilitator, Louisiana UCEDD

Lisa Davison

Louisiana UCEDD

Jennifer Boyter

Louisiana UCEDD

Thursday December 5, 2024 1:00pm - 4:00pm CST
3RD Floor - Ballroom: Celestin C Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113

Day 1 Intensive Workshops

Primary Topic Inclusive Education
Themes of Interest K-12 Education
Key Words Accessibility Competent Equity Inclusion Opportunity

1:00pm CST

I Want to But I Don't Know How: Cultivating A Good Time!

Thursday December 5, 2024 1:00pm - 4:00pm CST

3RD Floor - Ballroom: Celestin A

During this presentation, attendees will participate in discussions about the importance of social skills and successful social interactions. A large part of the human experience is sharing space and interacting with others. We spend significant amounts of time working on functional skills but tend to forget that social skills are just as important. We will discuss navigating social situations to cultivate a sense of belonging and togetherness. Through interactive group activities, attendees will share and exchange views on barriers to effective social interactions, communication and relationship building. Attendees will also discuss solutions for navigating social situations and creating opportunities to develop social skills that are important when accessing shared spaces and maintaining relationships. We will also explore what it means to be in a valued role and the significance of meaningful social experiences.

Moderators

Robin Dodds

Associate Professor of Early Childhood Special Education, California State University LA

My primary research interests focus on supporting families of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and related Developmental Disabilities in two ways; through Parent to Parent social support and through parent-mediated interventions for social communication. Additionally... Read More →

Presenters

Randy Seevers

Associate Professor, University of Houston-Clear Lake

Randy Seevers received his B.S. and Ph.D. degrees in Special Education from The Ohio State University. His experience includes working with a wide range of learners across the life span. He is currently an Associate Professor in the Department of Counseling, Special Education, and... Read More →

Shay Bernard

Support Coordination Supervisor, Progressive Community Services

Shahariah "Shay" Bernard has worked for Progressive Community Services for a total of 13 years. 2 years as a direct support staff, and 11 years in support coordination. She is passionate about advocating for the people she supports, finding creative solutions to everyday problems... Read More →

Thursday December 5, 2024 1:00pm - 4:00pm CST
3RD Floor - Ballroom: Celestin A Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113

Day 1 Intensive Workshops

Primary Topic Diversity and Social Impact
Themes of Interest Relationships & Sexuality
Key Words Social Interactions, Belonging, Togetherness, Relationships, Quality of life

1:00pm CST

Emergent Leadership, You Are the Leader You’ve Been Waiting For!

Thursday December 5, 2024 1:00pm - 5:00pm CST

4TH Floor - Imperial 5A

Who is the leader you are looking for. In this session, we hope to turn that question on its head. â€œHow do we encourage others to be courageous and embrace their leadershipâ€ As supportive leaders, we can nurture a culture of kindness and connectedness that creates a fertile ground for people to build relationships and step into their own leadership roles with confidence. Are there ways for us to build up others in ways that empower them to challenge the status quo? Is there way to build a culture where courage isnâ€™t needed? Where people just do â€œthe next right thingâ€? How does privilege impact leadership? Have we set up a culture that allows for everyone to be able to bring issues to light? How do we make space for relationships that allow marginalized people to be able to grow and exercise leadership? Please join us for a very interactive session with lots of conversation and fun. We will explore what qualities of a leader are and define the kind of leaders we want and need.

Moderators

Sheldon Schwitek

Co-Founder/ Consultant, In the Company of Others

Sheldon Schwitek has been supporting individuals with complex behavioural needs in the United Statesb and in Canada for over decades. He was introduced to the founding members of the Marsha Forest Center in 1990 and became a facilitator of the person-centered processes of MAPS, PATH... Read More →

Presenters

LyAnn Grogan

CEO, KFI

After ten years of working in a segregated Mental Health setting as a Music Therapist at New Hampshire Hospital and serving as a member of the National Music Therapy Association’s Training Committee LyAnn found inspiration. She was inspired by KFI's mission to provide supports... Read More →

Jodie Benvie

Support Coordinator, KFI

Thursday December 5, 2024 1:00pm - 5:00pm CST
4TH Floor - Imperial 5A Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113

Day 1 Intensive Workshops

Primary Topic Community Living
Themes of Interest Capacity Building for Inclusion
Key Words Inclusion, Self-Direction, Community, Support-Brokerage, Person-Centered
Presentation Type Research

1:00pm CST

How Do We Build Equitable and Inclusive Education Systems?

Thursday December 5, 2024 1:00pm - 5:00pm CST

3RD Floor - Ballroom: Celestin H

This workshop brings together national experts in creating a sustainable inclusive and equitable education system. This deep work requires a multi-level, multi-year focus on systemic and structural barriers that maintain current practices. While research such as implementation and improvement science offer strong structural guidance, the nuances and context of different states, districts, and schools require some individualization of approaches. Panelists will share research, best practices, and tools related to creating sustainable change while discussing differences in our approaches and options. High-level and practical insight will be shared in this highly interactive session.

This presentation brings together national leaders in the field of system change. Christine Betchel, Jessica Bowman, Meghan Cosier, Patricia McDaid, Effie McMillian, Michael McSheehan, Diane Ryndak, Kurt Schneider, and Debbie Taub have been engaged with system change work throughout their careers. While there will be prepared materials and shared content, this colloquium allows for opportunities similar to a panel discussion to showcase the range of work, areas of focus, and different approaches to change. This will be an interactive session though there are specific times for audience questions..

Introduction to the topic (30 min)
Mini-case studies by each participant related to their work (1.5 hours total)
Commentary on big-picture levers and areas of agreement (30 min)
Panelist questions and discussion related to contextual differences (1 hour)
Audience questions (20 min)

Panelists will share case studies from their work to highlight contextualized levers and barriers in planning for and implementing sustainable systemic change. Key resources will be shared with participants. The goal of this colloquium is a lively discussion filled with practical guidance, debate, and audience engagement.

Moderators

Deborah Taub

Owner/CEO, OTL Education Solutions, LLC

Presenters

Diane Ryndak

Professor, University of North Carolina at Greensboro

Jessica Bowman

Research Associate, TIES Center, University of Minnesota

inclusive education, systems change, mathematics education

Michael McSheehan

Owner/TA Provider, Evolve & Effect, LLC

Michael McSheehan’s life work has been at the intersection of disability and K-12 education. During his twenty years at the University of New Hampshire, he worked on projects for assistive technology, inclusive education, alternate assessment, RTI & PBIS, and MTSS. Michael helped... Read More →

Kurt A. Schneider

Superintendent, TrueNorth Educational Cooperative 804

Kurt A. Schneider, Ph.D. is in his ninth year as Superintendent of TrueNorth Educational Cooperative 804, in Highland Park, Illinois. Under his direction, the educational cooperative works in partnership with 18 local school districts to meet the needs of diverse learners through... Read More →

Christine Bechtel

Carroll County Public Schools

Effie McMillian

Chief Equity Officer, WSFCS

Meghan Cosier

Chapman University

Patricia McDaid

Thursday December 5, 2024 1:00pm - 5:00pm CST
3RD Floor - Ballroom: Celestin H Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113

Day 1 Intensive Workshops

Primary Topic Inclusive Education
Themes of Interest Systems Change
Key Words System Change, Equity, Inclusive Education, Sustainable
Presentation Type Research

1:00pm CST

Research Colloquium: Nothing About Us Without Us: Disability-Centered Participatory Action Research

Thursday December 5, 2024 1:00pm - 5:00pm CST

2ND Floor - Foster 1

This colloquium centers youth and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities and complex support needs as essential research partners within six participatory research projects, including inclusive research, participatory action research, community-based participatory research, and youth participatory action research. Each research team embodies the processes and principles of participatory research by how they center and amplify youth and adult experiences and perspectives to influence the policies, practices, scholarship, and systems that impact them most. Authentic equity, justice, access, and inclusion cannot be actualized without the epistemic agency of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and complex support needs. This session calls for more participatory research controlled by them from theorization to dissemination.

This proposed four-hour session consists of 6 research paper presentations that will last 25 minutes each. We will reserve 10 minutes total for the session chair’s introduction and closing as well as 10 minutes for discussant remarks. There will also be a 10 minute break. This allows for 10 minutes for questions/discussion, dialogue/resource sharing with attendees after each presentation.

5 minutes: Introduction to the overall session and speakers, Colloquium Chair – Hasan Ko

25 minutes: “What Matters Most to Adults with Disabilities in Their Daily Lives: A Nationwide Project” - Paul Betz, Thomas Caswell, Whitley Daper, David Frye, Jess Kilpeck, Hasan Ko, Mark Utter, Nicole Villemaire, Emily Anderson, and Amanda Miller
10 minutes: Questions and discussion

25 minutes: “Participatory Action Research on the Service Planning Experiences of Massachusetts Adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities” – Anne Fracht and Hezzy Smith
10 minutes: Questions and discussion

25 minutes: “Person Centered Planning and Home Community-Based Services on the Move” – David Taylor, Chaquetta Stuckey, and Anne Fracht
10 minutes: Questions and discussion

10 minutes: Break

25 minutes: “Collaborating With And Promoting Youth Voices in Research With Youth With Cerebral Palsy Who Do Not Speak And Who Use AAC” – Ramona Schwartz-Johnston
10 minutes: Questions and discussion

25 minutes: “Applying Inclusive Methods to Shed Light on the COVID-19 Pandemic Experiences of Group Home Residents with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities in Massachusetts” – Anne Fracht and Hezzy Smith
10 minutes: Questions and discussion

25 minutes: “Working Together as an Inclusive Team” – Pauline Bosma and Oscar Hughes
10 minutes: Questions and discussion

10 minutes: Remarks, Discussant – Amanda L. Miller

5 minutes: Closing, Colloquium Chair – Hasan Ko

Presenters

Amanda Miller

Thursday December 5, 2024 1:00pm - 5:00pm CST
2ND Floor - Foster 1 Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113

Research Colloquium

Primary Topic Human Rights
Themes of Interest Systems Change, Capacity Building for Inclusion
Key Words Community-Based Participatory Research, Complex Support Needs, Inclusive Research, Participatory Action Research, Youth and Adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, Youth Participatory Action Research
Presentation Type Research

2:00pm CST

Making Assistive Technology Solutions in Minutes

Thursday December 5, 2024 2:00pm - 4:00pm CST

3RD Floor - Ballroom: Celestin B

Service providers frequently struggle with limited time and money to create needed assistive technology solutions. This session will discuss and demonstrate over 100 assistive technology solutions that can be created in minutes using the â€œâ€¦ABLEâ€ principles: adjustable, portable, collapsible, reusable, affordable, repurpose, full, washable, repositionable, and more. Discover new and amazing tools, materials, and techniques for rapid creation of assistive technology solutions to support full and inclusive school and community participation.

Moderators

Therese Willkomm

Thursday December 5, 2024 2:00pm - 4:00pm CST
3RD Floor - Ballroom: Celestin B Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113

Day 1 Intensive Workshops

Primary Topic Communication Access
Themes of Interest Assistive Technology & Apps
Key Words Communication, Inclusion, Assistive Technology, Fabrication

2:00pm CST

Building and Maintaining An Inclusive School Culture

Thursday December 5, 2024 2:00pm - 5:00pm CST

3RD Floor - Ballroom: Celestin F

Inclusion is a practice that comes from the core value of wanting to include all students no matter where they are academically. Many school cultures inherently create barriers for inclusive practices - this workshop will help participants recognize these barriers, reflect on their core values, and rethink their educational goals. We will give participants the resources to change school cultures to promote and support inclusive practices. We seek to model specific tools, strategies, and activities throughout our workshop that participants can easily employ when they go back to â€œlead changeâ€ in their respective contexts and settings. Our 3 hour workshop session will be structured into different segments. Each segment will involve a collaborative activity that participants will complete with those seated around them. Ample movement, snack, and stretching breaks will also be provided throughout the session.

Moderators

Kayla Coburn

Presenters

Arielle Starkman

Inclusive Education Consultant, ACS Creative LLC

Arielle is an Inclusive Education Consultant in Los Angeles, CA. Over the past 10+ years, Arielle has been immersed in all things “Special Education"…from teaching, to leadership, to navigating the IEP process from the "parent side" for her 7-year-old stepson. Her passion... Read More →

Thursday December 5, 2024 2:00pm - 5:00pm CST
3RD Floor - Ballroom: Celestin F Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113

Day 1 Intensive Workshops

Primary Topic Inclusive Education
Themes of Interest Capacity Building for Inclusion
Key Words Culture, Inclusive Practices, Barriers, Educational Values, Shifting Mindset

2:00pm CST

Empowering Adults with IDD and Caregivers Through Advance Care Planning

Thursday December 5, 2024 2:00pm - 5:00pm CST

2ND Floor - Foster 2

Advance care planning (ACP) involves preparing for future decisions about oneâ€™s medical care if one becomes seriously ill or unable to communicate. ACP helps people ensure that their healthcare preferences are respected, their care is tailored to their needs, and their rights are protected. It promotes dignity, autonomy, and person-centered care. 1 in 3 U.S. adults has advance directive documents, and even less in the Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities (IDD) community. This workshop aims to demystify ACP and facilitate its acceptance in the IDD community. By focusing on ACP in adults with IDD and their caregivers, this session will provide insights into ACPâ€™s unique importance and opportunities in this community. Through interactive discussions and case studies, participants will learn about the ACP process and explore ways to overcome barriers. The workshop will include an opportunity for participants to engage in their own ACP in a session led by an industry expert.

Moderators

Courtney Schlueter

LPN, Clinical Excellence Project Specialist, Catalight

Presenters

Doreen Samelson

Chief Clinical Officer, Catalight Foundation

I am a disabled psychologist. I am also the parent of an adult child who is significantly disabled. I am very interested in empowering parents and facilitating self-determination for disabled children, youth and adults. I live with 2 spoiled kitties.

Thursday December 5, 2024 2:00pm - 5:00pm CST
2ND Floor - Foster 2 Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113

Day 1 Intensive Workshops

Primary Topic PBIS
Themes of Interest Aging Issues
Key Words Health, Aging, Advance Care Planning, Advanced Directive, Power of Attorney

2:00pm CST

Exploring Opportunities to Enhance Research Engagement, Use of Data, and Disability Advocacy

Thursday December 5, 2024 2:00pm - 5:00pm CST

4TH Floor - Imperial 5B

While there is lots of research on the experiences and outcomes of people with disabilities, findings are not often shared in ways that are accessible and supportive of advocacy efforts. Advocacy methods that include quality data are often highly effective in steering the changes advocates hope to see; however, community engagement with disability data, including the collection, analysis, interpretation, and dissemination of data, is usually minimal. This can result in a disconnect between what researchers and policymakers feel is important to advocates and what advocates feel is important for their community. This session will feature an overview of existing efforts related to collecting and strengthening disability data and how these efforts are currently supporting advocacy. Then, we will have a rousing discussion with attendees about the most critical ways to enhance engagement with the disability community to support use of disability data in local, state, and national advocacy,

Moderators

Lindsay DuBois

Thursday December 5, 2024 2:00pm - 5:00pm CST
4TH Floor - Imperial 5B Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113

Day 1 Intensive Workshops

Primary Topic Self-Advocacy
Themes of Interest Research to Practice
Key Words Disability Data, Advocacy, Participatory Research, Community Engagement, Grassroots, Systems Change, Quality Improvements
Presentation Type Research

3:00pm CST

School-Based Occupational Therapy Facilitating Inclusive Education: A Multiple Case Study

Thursday December 5, 2024 3:00pm - 5:00pm CST

3RD Floor - Ballroom: Celestin G

School-based occupational therapy practitioners (SBOTs) are invaluable for enabling inclusive participation for all students. However, existing literature highlights the need to shift from impairment-focused remedial approaches to inclusion-focused interventions. This presentation will discuss the findings of a qualitative multiple case study on inclusive OT practices in elementary schools for students with Extensive Support Needs (ESN). The study addresses two critical needs in education: (1) providing skilled support to make general education environments accessible and engaging for all learners, and (2) aligning SBOT practices with contemporary educational demands for students most vulnerable to segregation. The practical insights from this study will help us rise together as a collaborative team to promote authentic inclusion in the school community.

Presenters

Savitha Sundar

Texas Woman's University

Thursday December 5, 2024 3:00pm - 5:00pm CST
3RD Floor - Ballroom: Celestin G Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113

Day 1 Intensive Workshops

Primary Topic Inclusive Education
Themes of Interest K-12 Education
Key Words Related Services, Students with ESN, Multiple Case Study, Occupational Therapy, School Community
Presentation Type Research

5:00pm CST

Welcome Reception Exhibitor Showcase (Exhibit Hall)

Thursday December 5, 2024 5:00pm - 6:00pm CST

3RD Floor - Celestin Foyer

The Exhibitor Showcase will open with greetings from New Orleans! Check out the exhibitors!

Thursday December 5, 2024 5:00pm - 6:00pm CST
3RD Floor - Celestin Foyer Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113

Exhibitor Showcase

5:00pm CST

Inclusive Practices Editorial Board Meeting

Thursday December 5, 2024 5:00pm - 6:00pm CST

4TH Floor - Imperial 3 Boardroom

Presenters

Andrea Ruppar

The University of Wisconsin-Madison

I'm an Associate Professor of Special Education at University of Wisconsin-Madison. I study educational decision making for students with extensive support needs.

Jennifer Kurth

Professor, University of Kansas

Inclusive Education

Thursday December 5, 2024 5:00pm - 6:00pm CST
4TH Floor - Imperial 3 Boardroom Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113

Meetings

5:00pm CST

Employment Reception

Thursday December 5, 2024 5:00pm - 6:00pm CST

3RD Floor - Ballroom: Celestin D

Join Wise at the Employment Reception during the 2024 TASH Conference for a happy hour of celebration, networking, and meaningful conversations about equitable employment. This is your opportunity to connect with advocates, employers, and professionals dedicated to creating inclusive workplaces for all. Share ideas, develop new collaborations, and celebrate the strides we’re making toward equitable employment opportunities. Cash bar and light refreshments will be available. Let’s come together to honor progress and envision the future of employment!

Moderators

Cesilee Coulson

Executive Director, Executive Director

Wise, founded in 1985, is a private, not for profit organization dedicated to expanding and sustaining employment opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. We consult with: People with Disabilities; Families; Employment Agencies; National, State and... Read More →

Presenters

Beth McKenney

Communications Specialist, Wise

Beth (she/her) supports communication efforts at Wise from her home in Portland, OR. She is passionate about inclusion and is particularly interested in continued learning and action around intersectionality in disability advocacy. As a sibling to a person with a disability, she is... Read More →

Alison DeYoung

Training & Technical Assistance Manager, Wise

Thursday December 5, 2024 5:00pm - 6:00pm CST
3RD Floor - Ballroom: Celestin D Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113

Networking Event

5:00pm CST

Exhibitor Showcase (Exhibit Hall)

Thursday December 5, 2024 5:00pm - 8:00pm CST

3RD Floor - Celestin Foyer

Don't forget to check out the Exhibitors!

Thursday December 5, 2024 5:00pm - 8:00pm CST
3RD Floor - Celestin Foyer Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113

Exhibitor Showcase

6:30pm CST

Film Festival - The Ride Ahead

Thursday December 5, 2024 6:30pm - 8:30pm CST

3RD Floor - Ballroom: Celestin E

The film follows Samuel Habib, whose goals are pretty typical for a 21-year-old. Moving out of his family’s New Hampshire home. College. Establishing his career. Dating. Sex.

Yet every rite of passage is fraught with challenges. Unexpected seizures and uncontrollable movements caused by his rare genetic disorder. Friends’ homes that are inaccessible to his wheelchair. His labored speech and use of a communication device are barriers to a social life. He craves more independence and a family of his own one day. “But no one tells you how to be an adult,” he says, “let alone an adult with a disability.”

Samuel is determined to avoid the statistical realities: unemployment, isolation, institutionalization.
A turning point comes when he starts talking to disabled adults, who have been through all he is going through now. And when he begins to channel their insights, a roadmap for himself, and for other young adults like him, begins to take shape.

Thursday December 5, 2024 6:30pm - 8:30pm CST
3RD Floor - Ballroom: Celestin E Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113

Film Festival