Jamie Shields is a vibrant advocate for disability rights, known for his engaging personality and insightful perspectives. In our recent podcast episode, Jamie shared his journey as a registered blind individual, emphasizing the importance of self-identification and the nuances of language within the disability community.

We are pleased to recognize Sarah for her exceptional contributions to Global Neurodiverse Families, a vital support network for families navigating neurodiversity. Sarah embodies the qualities of compassion, dedication, and resilience, making a profound impact on our community.

Through her tireless efforts, Sarah has established a network where families can connect, share experiences, and provide mutual support in a safe and welcoming environment. This sense of community is invaluable, ensuring that no one feels alone in their journey.

Sarah’s influence extends beyond our local community. She has actively advocated for broader awareness and education surrounding neurodiversity and inclusion, creating opportunities for Vietnamese educators to enhance their understanding in this important area. Her commitment has touched the lives of teachers, specialists, and families alike, solidifying her role as a cornerstone of our initiative.

We are grateful for Sarah’s unwavering dedication and her exemplary model of inclusivity and diversity. Her work continues to inspire us all.

Congratulations to Sarah Devotion Garner as this month’s SENIA World Changer Award winner!

Hear about Sarah’s dedication to inclusion here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Dd_O2JHi7wwMhQSHBIxFGOTu4gm5Cb6v/view

In this episode of the SENIA Happy Hour podcast, host Lori Boll chats with Trisha Friedman, a seasoned educator with international experience and the founder of allied.

Celebrating the remarkable achievements of Smrithy Rajesh, a dedicated advocate for inclusion, her family has turned personal challenges into a powerful movement for change. As a parent of a special needs child, she often felt anxious in public places due to society’s lack of empathy. Her resolve was tested when two staff members of Sri Lankan Airlines unjustly claimed that her autistic son would pose a threat to passengers if allowed to fly. Determined to prevent other families from facing similar trauma, she courageously filed a case against the airline for violating the Rights for People with Disabilities (RPWD) Act 2016 in the Court of Chief Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities.

Her victory not only brought justice for her son but also sparked a significant shift in the aviation industry, prompting all Indian airlines to enforce the RPWD Act and ensure that everyone has the right to fly. Her son continues to inspire her advocacy, driving her to work tirelessly for other families and children, and helping to create a more inclusive society where every individual is valued. This award celebrates Smrithy for her unwavering commitment to fostering inclusion and her impactful contributions to the rights of persons with disabilities.

Congratulations to Smrithy Rajesh for being a SENIA World Changer!

Hear her story here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r1Dbx4sNzv4

#SENIAWorldChanger #inclusion #RightToFly #SENIAInternational

On today’s podcast, host Lori Boll speaks with Kevin Schaefer who is currently the Director of Inclusive Practices/Supporting Inclusive Practices (SIP) project through the El Dorado County Office of Education Sacramento, California.

Please find the June 2024 Newsletter HERE

It’s a quiet, gorgeous day for a walk on the University of Oklahoma (OU) campus.

And out of the peace, my husband and I hear a sweet little yell. 

“MOMMY……take picture! CHEEEEEESE!!!!”

How can I refuse that precious, high-pitched voice?

But as I take the picture, my heart hurts.

On today’s podcast, host Lori Boll speaks with Sybil Hall about the important topic of Teacher Burnout. Sybil recently published Burn Bright, Not Out: 35 Lessons that Cultivate Teacher Well Being.