This session is focused on using AI tools to enrich instruction for students with identified disabilities. First, we'll explore the what and how of generative AI. We will also discuss the ethical dimensions of its use in educational settings, ensuring our approach is both responsible and effective. We'll then dive into a hands-on exploration of various AI applications, highlighting how they can be integrated into planning and assessment. This session is designed to be interactive and informative, providing practical insights to help you differentiate educational experiences to meet the diverse needs of learners.

Meet Our Presenters

Beth Wassell, EdD, is a Professor in the Content Area Teacher Education Education Department at Rowan University. She teaches courses in the World Language education, Bilingual, and ESL education programs. Prior to her work at Rowan, she was a high school Spanish teacher and an instructor of English to new immigrant adults. Her research focuses on language education in inclusive contexts.

Alicia Drelick EdD, is an Assistant Professor of Inclusive Education at Rowan University. She is a certified Assistive Technology Professional and former special education teacher. Dr. Drelick's interests are in leveraging technology to support inclusive education, UDL and teacher preparation.

This session is for educational leaders who are interested in promoting effective co-teaching practices in their school or district, whether they are an administrator, Child Study Team member, guidance counselor, teacher, or other educator.  Participants will deepen their understanding of the important roles educational leaders play in this endeavor; engage in collaborative, solution-based problem solving around common challenges; and walk away with ideas, strategies, and resources for their community’s next steps on the co-teaching journey.

Meet Our Presenter

Taija Haller, MA, is a Technical Assistance Specialist with the Learning Resource Center-South dedicated to supporting educators as they implement inclusive practices and cultivating a professional learning community for novice teachers. Previously, she was a middle school special educator in a Title I school for thirteen years. She has a Bachelor of Science in Special Education and a Master of Arts in Intercultural Studies.

This session will address how to incorporate Universal Design for Learning strategies into social studies and ELA content. The session will begin with an overview of the research around using UDL across the curriculum with a focus on social studies, ELA and the arts. Participants will then explore how to incorporate specific strategies into their curriculum to enhance interdisciplinary instruction.

Meet Our Presenter

Paraprofessionals serve a critically significant role on educational teams, yet often receive the least amount of training among educational professionals. This session details an online paraprofessional learning series created by a team of special education faculty. The professional development series draws on a disability studies in education (DSE) approach and high leverage practices to situate paraprofessionals as active contributors to inclusion as a social justice imperative.

Meet Our Presenter

Brent Elder, PhD, is an Associate Professor of Inclusive Education at Rowan University in the Wellness and Inclusive Services in Education (WISE) Department. His research and practice focuses on the development of sustainable inclusive education practices in under-resourced schools in the United States and low-resourced countries around the world.

Schools are dynamic spaces that involve many educational professionals working together. This session will address content and collaboration needs of P-12 administrators and educators who are responsible for managing and supporting paraprofessionals and other professionals in inclusive classrooms in their schools. Participants will engage in activities and with tools to assist them in meeting these needs.

Meet Our Presenter

Michelle Damiani, PhD, is an Assistant Professor of Inclusive Education at Rowan University. She received her Ph.D. in Special Education from Syracuse University. Formerly, she was a professor-in-residence at a local early childhood elementary school, a public school elementary special education teacher, and a new teacher mentor. Her teaching and research focuses on building capacity in schools by expanding the use of inclusive pedagogy and practices and understanding the experiences of teachers with disabilities in the teacher workforce.

This session is for current or potential co-teachers, as well as the instructional leaders who support them.  Participants will deepen their understanding of the prevailing co-teaching models and consider implications for their practice; share strategies for co-managing a learning environment that supports regular use of the regrouping models; and walk away with tips and tools for making the most of their limited co-planning time.

Meet Our Presenter

Taija Haller, MA, is a Technical Assistance Specialist with the Learning Resource Center-South dedicated to supporting educators as they implement inclusive practices and cultivating a professional learning community for novice teachers. Previously, she was a middle school special educator in a Title I school for thirteen years. She has a Bachelor of Science in Special Education and a Master of Arts in Intercultural Studies.

This session, structured as a reading party, will invite participants to explore the many resources on neurodiversity in the LRC-S Library. Participants will move through several stations on various neurodiversity-related topics where they will select a text, read a brief excerpt, followed by a small group discussion about the resource.

Meet Our Presenters

Amy Accardo, EdD, is an Associate Professor in the Department of Interdisciplinary and Inclusive Education, at Rowan University's College of Education. The focus of Dr. Accardo’s teaching and research is promoting equitable education opportunities for individuals with disabilities grounded in neurodiversity and critical inclusion. Current projects include increasing access to postsecondary education for the growing number of autistic young adults, and reducing the literacy research to practice gap.

Casey Woodfield, PhD, is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Interdisciplinary and Inclusive Education in Rowan University’s College of Education. Her teaching and research centers communication and inclusion as inextricably connected imperatives. Using a disability studies framework her research explores the nuances of communication support partnerships, inclusive educational practice, and transformative qualitative methods.

Kerry Cormier, PhD, is an instructor in the Interdisciplinary and Inclusive Education at Rowan University. She is a former high school English special education teacher. Her work focuses on understanding the experiences of students and teachers in building more inclusive spaces. 

Madeline P. Boehning, MS Ed, is a graduate assistant in the Educational Leadership, Administration, and Research Department, and a third-year PhD student in the special education concentration. Before joining Rowan, she worked as a secondary ELA and humanities teacher in co-taught and inclusive classrooms. Ms. Boehning’s research interests include the policies, school structures, and teaching methods that support teachers as they work to create inclusive classrooms. She is also interested in the representation of neurodivergence and dis/ability in the K-12 curriculum.

This session will utilize the design thinking strategy of embodiment to explore student needs, barriers to access, strengths, and passions. Participants will examine the "student bodies" and applying UDL strategies to build out proactive supports for learners.

Meet Our Presenters

Alicia Drelick EdD, is an Assistant Professor of Inclusive Education at Rowan University. She is a certified Assistive Technology Professional and former special education teacher. Dr. Drelick's interests are in leveraging technology to support inclusive education, UDL and teacher preparation.

Cathy A.R. Brant, PhD, is an Assistant Professor of Equity in Teacher Education at Rowan University. A graduate of Rutgers University (B.A. & M.Ed.), Cathy began her educational career as an elementary teacher in New Jersey. After six years teaching, she attended The Ohio State University for her doctoral degree. Her research involves two strands: LGBTQ+ topics in education/teacher preparation and elementary social studies education. Cathy is currently researching the experiences of gender diverse youth in schools. She is also currently involved in a project helping elementary grade teachers integrate social studies and English language arts instruction (ELA).

In this workshop, early childhood educators will gain an understanding of the principles of Universal Design for Learning. Through exposure to developmentally appropriate classroom activities, participants will be able to identify various ways to provide multiple means of representation, expression and engagement. Participants will also be able to reflect on how to integrate UDL principles into their personal classroom space.

Meet Our Presenters

Johari Sykes- Ratliff, MA, is an Early Childhood Lecturer in the Early Childhood, Elementary, and Critical Foundations of Education Department at Rowan University.  Prior to her current position, Johari served for over twelve years in the Camden City School District, in a variety of roles including, Classroom Teacher, Master Teacher, Lead Educator/School Administrator, and Lead Educator/District Supervisor. In addition to Lecturer at Rowan, Johari has supported the Professional Development School initiative, recruitment of new faculty and staff, has engaged in a variety of College of Education programs/ initiatives, and provided coordination of the Early Childhood program.  Johari is an active member of several professional organizations and enjoys presenting Early Childhood content that supports the growth and development of teachers, paraprofessional staff, school leaders, students, parents and the community.

Donielle Wesley, MA, is a Preschool Intervention and Referral Specialist with the Camden City School District. In this role, she supports all children that have an IEP in the Inclusive Preschool classroom environment. Her 25 years of experience in Early Childhood spans from grades Preschool through Third grade, having also served as a classroom teacher in the Self- Contained classroom setting. Ms. Wesley is also an adjunct at Rowan University, where she supervises clinical interns. Her interests include special education and inclusive best practices.

In this session, participants will have an opportunity to learn from a local school leadership team about their on-going efforts, including their recent steps to implement inclusive programming and co-teaching throughout their school building. The session will include time for an extended Q&A discussion. Join the conversation!

Meet Our Presenters

Shawn Blackshear, MA, serves as an Assistant Principal is Mount Laurel School District. He has a degree in Science Education from Delaware State University and a Master's degree in School Leadership from Wilmington University. Mr. Blackshear is also currently earning a Doctoral degree in Organizational Leadership.

Marques Stanard, MA, has served as an administrator in the Mount Laurel School District for 14 years and 7 years as a Principal. He has a Biology degree from Hampton University and a masters in Educational Leadership from Wilmington University.

Mary Anne Vastardis, MA, is an Assistant Principal at Mount Laurel Township Schools. She has a degree in Early Childhood Education from the University of Rhode Island and her Masters in Educational Leadership from TCNJ.

Michelle Damiani, PhD, is an Assistant Professor of Inclusive Education at Rowan University. She received her Ph.D. in Special Education from Syracuse University. Formerly, she was a professor-in-residence at a local early childhood elementary school, a public school elementary special education teacher, and a new teacher mentor. Her teaching and research focuses on building capacity in schools by expanding the use of inclusive pedagogy and practices and understanding the experiences of teachers with disabilities in the teacher workforce.

This session aims to provide educators with an understanding of the importance of incorporating AI in educational settings. Delve into key considerations concerning the use of AI in classrooms and engage in discussions regarding how AI can support all students, streamline time management, and redefine classrooms to promote future-ready learning.

Meet Our Presenter

Judi Kibelstis, MA, is the Instructional Materials Specialist for the Learning Resource Center-South. She began her career in education as a secondary Social Studies and English teacher in Philadelphia. She earned her Master’s degree in Educational Technology from Rowan University.

In this workshop, early childhood educators will gain an understanding of the principles of Universal Design for Learning. Through exposure to developmentally appropriate classroom activities, participants will be able to identify various ways to provide multiple means of representation, expression and engagement. Participants will also be able to reflect on how to integrate UDL principles into their personal classroom space.

Meet Our Presenters

Johari Sykes- Ratliff, MA, is an Early Childhood Lecturer in the Early Childhood, Elementary, and Critical Foundations of Education Department at Rowan University. Prior to her current position, Johari served for over twelve years in the Camden City School District, in a variety of roles including, Classroom Teacher, Master Teacher, Lead Educator/School Administrator, and Lead Educator/District Supervisor. In addition to Lecturer at Rowan, Johari has supported the Professional Development School initiative, recruitment of new faculty and staff, has engaged in a variety of College of Education programs/ initiatives, and provided coordination of the Early Childhood program.  Johari is an active member of several professional organizations and enjoys presenting Early Childhood content that supports the growth and development of teachers, paraprofessional staff, school leaders, students, parents and the community.

Donielle Wesley, MA, is a Preschool Intervention and Referral Specialist with the Camden City School District. In this role, she supports all children that have an IEP in the Inclusive Preschool classroom environment. Her 25 years of experience in Early Childhood spans from grades Preschool through Third grade, having also served as a classroom teacher in the Self- Contained classroom setting. Ms. Wesley is also an adjunct at Rowan University, where she supervises clinical interns. Her interests include special education and inclusive best practices.

In this session, we will dive into practical strategies for integrating technology into the planning, instruction, and assessment phases of co-teaching. We will navigate through frameworks that enhance meaningful technology integration; define the diverse roles of co-teachers to create a collaborative environment for technology exploration and adoption; and provide hands-on experience with innovative technological tools that can be infused into a co-taught classroom.

Meet Our Presenters

Alicia Drelick EdD, is an Assistant Professor of Inclusive Education at Rowan University. She is a certified Assistive Technology Professional and former special education teacher. Dr. Drelick's interests are in leveraging technology to support inclusive education, UDL and teacher preparation. 

With so many technology tools in our classrooms, we have the opportunity to provide flexible options and supports to facilitate learning for every student. Dive into our Technology Exploration Stations for some hands-on learning! Learn how to leverage technology tools to meet the unique learning needs of EVERY student. From mobile apps to browser extensions to web tools - there are so many tools available today to support the diverse learners in our classrooms. Come learn about technology tools in the areas of reading, writing, organization and more. We will look at tools across platforms: Chrome, iOS, Android and Web Tools.

Meet Our Presenters

Naomi Leibowitz is an Assistive Technology Specialist who has evaluated and prescribed interventions to support clients’ goals in a variety of settings, community, education and employment for over 20 years. Naomi has also provided leadership to Temple University to ensure that students with a disability have full access to the university experience. Naomi has been an educator to others on AT for everyone and UDL. She has presented at various national conferences including CSUN, AT Summit and Pacific Rim on how assistive technology benefits all – not just people with disabilities. She has conceptualized and submitted grant applications to support and promote Assistive Technology initiatives that supports the whole college community not just students with disabilities. Naomi believes if you design a product that includes everyone in mind, including people with disabilities, everyone will benefit.

Mike Marotta is a RESNA Certified Assistive Technology Professional and the Director of the Richard West Assistive Technology Advocacy Center at Disability Rights New Jersey. Mike is the 2017 ISTE Inclusive Learning Network Outstanding Educator. Mike is a nationally and internationally recognized presenter who was previously a trainer for California State University at Northridge (CSUN), providing practical and in-depth training to professionals interested in specializing in assistive technology. In addition, Mike is an adjunct professor at Ramapo College of New Jersey where he teaches courses for Masters level educators in Assistive Technology and Universal Design for Learning. Mike serves on both the CAST Accessible Educational Materials and Center on Inclusive Technology and Education Systems (CITES) Advisory Boards. Mike is a Raspberry Pi Certified Educator and has presented at several national Maker events.

Multilingual Learners (MLs) spend a good amount of their school day listening. It is no wonder, then, that their listening comprehension in English is often significantly higher than their speaking in English. Because speaking is so important for engagement, learning, sharing ideas, self-advocacy, the building of relationships, and more, increasing opportunities (and supports) for interaction is crucial! This workshop will focus on strategies for MLs, from newcomers to exited (but still monitored) students. The strategies presented will benefit and support all diverse learners! Come ready to interact!

Meet Our Presenter

Brooke Hoffman, PhD, is a Lecturer of Multilingual and Culturally Responsive Pedagogy and Coordinator of the ESL Certificate and Bilingual Endorsement graduate programs at Rowan University. She taught English in China for 3 years; third grade in Elizabethtown, PA for 1 year; and Math and Science to middle school Multilingual Learners (MLs) in inclusive classrooms for 10 years with the School District of Philadelphia. Her ongoing focus is on advocating for MLs and their communities, including their families, teachers, and schools.