Too often, people view leaders as those who are out front and in charge – they think in terms of power. But real leaders are those who have the ability to effect change in the lives of others. They are those who create a collaborative culture where everyone is supported, included, and set up to succeed. Join Russ Ewell’s conversation with educator and founder of Think Inclusive Tim Villegas as they discuss the necessity and importance of inclusion not just for those with disabilities, but for everyone.

Tim Villegas is director of communications at Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education, a nonprofit that envisions a society where neighborhood schools welcome all learners and create the foundation for inclusive communities. Throughout his 16-year career as a special education teacher, Tim advocated for the inclusion of students with significant disabilities in general education classrooms and continues his work with MCIE to empower inclusive systems to change in schools and districts. He studied at Azusa Pacific University then California State University, Fullerton. He is the founder of Think Inclusive and the host of the Think Inclusive Podcast.

Resources:

• The Biggest Barriers to Inclusive Education by Tim Villegas
• Easterseals study on the impact of Covid-19 on People with Disabilities
• “When you are accustomed to privilege, equality feels like oppression.” - Anonymous
• The 5 Levels of Inclusion article
• The 5 Levels of Inclusion podcast
• The Beyond Access Model: Promoting Membership, Participation, and Learning for Students with Disabilities in the General Education Classroom
• Erik Carter and “belonging”