Back to School Reflections
It’s that time again - backpacks are zipped, lunchboxes are packed, and social media is overflowing with first-day smiles. From tiny first graders in shiny sneakers, to seniors striking their last “first day pose”, to proud families waving goodbye as their kids head off to college - it’s a joyful tradition that never gets old.
And it’s not just students. Teachers are posting about new classrooms, fresh roles, and bulletin boards that look like Pinterest come to life. Fall always carries that special mix of anticipation, new beginnings, and hope.
But let’s be honest: for some, back-to-school season doesn’t feel so joyful.
Parents wonder, “What if my child doesn’t have friends?”
Teachers worry, “What if my co-teacher and I don’t click?”
Leaders might quietly think, “What if our new principal doesn’t understand special education and the master schedule creates mission impossible?”
As I ponder the mixed feelings of back to school, I thought I’d share what it’s like this year, which marks my 56th “first day of school” as an educator. (That number still surprises me!)
Here’s what I’m not doing this fall:
Setting up a classroom and writing lesson plans (1970 - 1983)
Managing IEPs and meeting daily student needs (1978 - 1983)
Providing school-level transition services (1984 - 1996)
Serving as a state transition specialist (1997 - 2000)
Preparing college syllabi (2000 - 2006)
Supporting schools as Delaware’s state inclusion specialist (2006 - 2013)
Each milestone of my career came with its own mix of excitement and uncertainty. I carry those memories fondly.
But today, my role looks different.
I’m still a learner. Since 2012, I’ve been on a mission: to figure out what it really takes for schools to organize, collaborate, and empower students with disabilities to thrive.
Here’s what I’ve discovered so far:
I can’t do it alone. Learning happens in a community. That’s why I now work with an extraordinary team of visionaries who help carry Joyful Inclusion into schools nationwide.
Students need belief. They thrive when teachers create classrooms of belonging and offer multiple ways to learn.
Teachers need clarity and tools. Clear outcomes + a shared toolbox of strategies = real progress.
Principals need perspective. Updated knowledge of special ed requirements and strategies to align faculty and families with their vision.
District champions need influence. Vision, skills of influence, and a strong network are essential to lead system-wide change.
Schools need reflection. A reliable way to evaluate progress toward true inclusion, where every stakeholder - students, staff, and families -flourish.
This fall, I’m thrilled to share two new “back-to-school” adventures:
The launch of our Special Education Champions Mastermind
This small-group experience is for visionary leaders ready to step into #5 - building influence, networks, and momentum for change.
Our Joyful Inclusion Compass
This new tool helps schools tackle #6 - evaluating progress toward being an inclusive community where all thrive. Stay turned for updates!
Back-to-school isn’t just for students. After 56 years, I’m proof that the learning never stops. And honestly? That’s the joy of it!
Here’s to your fresh start, your new hopes, and the discoveries you’ll make this year.
