Includi-Con 2023
Summer Inclusion Institute
Renew your “why” Restock your toolbox Reframe your thinking
Join us for our virtual 2023 Summer Inclusion Institute!
This year, Includi-Con is designed to provide opportunities for school personnel and parents to RENEW, RESTOCK, and REFRAME. Life in schools and their respective communities has been difficult and more challenging than ever, as the impact of the pandemic for students, families and schools was fully understood and felt.
We’ve put together a program and speakers that we believe can help all to remember our “why”, to forge positive pathways for students and ourselves; learn new strategies; and expand our circles of connection with others who embrace inclusive education. And we will also have some fun!
We hope that Includi-Con will inspire and energize you as you continue your work to support all students learning together in general education classrooms, find new connections, and feel supported in your efforts.
Click the areas below to explore the program and register!
Featured Speakers & Keynote Sessions
Tuesday, June 20
Keynote: “The Power of a Teacher”
Speaker: Dr. Adam Sáenz
We often talk about what, when, how, and where we do what we do. It’s critical, though, for us to stay in touch with why. Remember? You went into education to make a difference! But is it possible to build the kinds of life-impacting relationships with students in educational systems that have the potential to leave you physically and emotionally drained? Licensed psychologist Dr. Adam L. Saenz answers with a resounding, “Yes! In this presentation, Dr. Saenz will share insight and real case studies that will encourage you by reminding you that what you do in your role as an educator doesn’t just matter—it matters deeply. He’ll remind us how we, in education, are uniquely postured to make life-changing impacts on the students with whom we interact every day.
Wednesday, June 21
Keynote: “Literacy: A Key for Unlocking Full Participation in a Meaningful Life”
Speaker: Dr. Susan Copeland
Literacy is life changing. Why? Because so much of what any of us do in our lives is made possible by having learned literacy skills. Knowing only a few basic skills, even if someone never becomes a fully conventional reader and writer, increases participation in the things that make lives rich and full of meaning (e.g., social relationships, school, work, and even engaging in citizenship in our society). Some of the most important skills educators, therapists, and families will ever teach any person of any age are linked to literacy. Students with complex support needs, just like any other person, benefit from every literacy skill they learn. In this session we will explore the “Why” of teaching literacy and the possibilities acquiring literacy skills can create for students with complex support needs. Participants will also learn a few exciting and engaging ways to create literacy learning for students across the school day.
Thursday, June 22
Keynote: “Beyond Treats and Timeouts – Strategies for Challenging Behavior”
Speakers: Dr. Julie Causton & Dr. Kristie Pretti-Frontczak
3-day Includi-Con Agenda
Tuesday June 20
8:30 – 9 am
Includi-Con Welcoming and Opening
9 – 10:30 am
Keynote: The Power of a Teacher
Speaker: Adam Saenz, PhD, Applied EQ Group
10:30 – 10:45 am
Break
10:45 – 11:45 am
Games and Prizes
11:45 – 12:15 pm
Session: How to Escape Survival Mode
Speaker: Adam Saenz, PhD, Applied EQ Group
Wednesday June 21
8:30 – 9 am
Opening
9 – 10:30 am
Keynote: Literacy: A Key for Unlocking Full Participation in a Meaningful Life
Speaker: Susan Copeland, PhD University of New Mexico
10:30 – 10:45 am
Break
10:45 – 11:15 am
Games and Prizes
11:15 am – 12:15 pm.
Session: A Reading Toolkit – Strategies for Students with Complex Support Needs.
Speaker: Drew Hunter, Millersville University
Thursday June 22
8:30 – 9 am
Opening
9 – 10:15 am.
Keynote: “Beyond Treats and Timeouts – Strategies for Challenging Behavior”
Speakers: Julie Causton, PhD & Kristie Pretti-Frontczak, PhD, Inclusive Schooling
10:15 – 10:30 am
Break
10:30 – 10:45 am
Games and Prizes
10:45 – 11:15 am
Resource Sharing
With the Include Me Team
11:15 – 12:15 pm
Session: To Be Announced
Registration and Cost
Click Here for Registration Form
Registration Fee*: $30.00
*Include Me School Districts: There is no fee for educators, administrators, or parents from Include Me participating school districts. Please contact Anthony Chan (achan@includemepa.org) to receive a registration code.
Scholarships: Parents of students with disabilities can apply for a scholarship to cover their registration fee. Contact Anthony Chan at achan@includeme.pa.org