Unlocking Potential: Special Education Perspectives

SPED Media Region 16
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In this podcast we will discuss all aspects of Special Education in our schools today.

  1. Jun 18

    Celebrating Neurodiversity: An Autism Conference Spotlight with Morgan Van Diepen

    In this episode of Unlocking Potential, we’re giving you a behind-the-scenes look at our upcoming Autism Conference! Winston sits down with co-host Danielle, who leads the conference, to share what makes this event so meaningful and what participants can expect. Then, we’re joined by Morgan Van Diepen, BCBA and co-founder of ABA Visualized, who will be delivering this year’s keynote, “Actionable Practices for Celebrating Neurodiversity.” Morgan shares how small shifts in language, perspective, and practice can create more inclusive and supportive environments for neurodivergent learners.

    18 min

  2. May 26

    Rooted in Purpose: A SPED Camp Spotlight with Allison Posey

    In this episode of Unlocking Potential, we’re giving you a sneak peek at one of our favorite events of the year—SPED Camp! Hear from our SPED Camp lead as she shares what makes this conference such a meaningful experience for educators and why you won’t want to miss it. Then, we’re joined by Allison Posey, international leader in Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and this year’s keynote speaker. Allison brings the science of how the brain learns into practical classroom application, helping educators design learning experiences that truly reach every student.

    22 min

  3. May 1

    A special look at Dumas ISD’s 18+ program

    In this episode of Unlocking Potential, we continue our season on transition to adulthood by spotlighting Dumas ISD’s 18+ program. Join us as we talk with Mattye Calvery and Frankie Blue about how their program supports students with disabilities in building independence, developing employment skills, and preparing for meaningful life after high school.

    16 min

  4. Feb 19

    What is Work-based Learning?

    Join the Unlocking Potential podcast as hosts Winston and special co-host Kristi Tucker dive deep into work-based learning with Joette Hardin from Texas A&M's Center for Disability and Development! Discover what work-based learning really looks like in practice  Learn why it's crucial for transition planning. Explore how schools can build stronger employment pathways for students with disabilities. Joette shares insights from supporting over 130 programs across Texas that provide on-campus and community-based vocational training. This episode is packed with practical strategies for creating meaningful adult outcomes and employment independence! Perfect for educators, transition specialists, parents, and anyone passionate about unlocking potential for students with disabilities. Learn more about this program here: https://cdd.tamu.edu/ https://cdd.tamu.edu/wbl-project/ #UnlockingPotential #TransitionPlanning #WorkBasedLearning #DisabilitySupport #EmploymentFirst #SpecialEducation #TransitionServices

    27 min

  5. 11/14/2025

    Living Independently: Jose Briseño’s Journey from School to Adulthood

    In this episode of Unlocking Potential, we continue our season on transition to adulthood for students with disabilities by visiting with Jose Briseño—a 30-year-old professional who has been totally blind since birth. Jose shares his journey from public school to college and beyond, reflecting on the resources, strategies, and determination that helped him successfully navigate life after high school. Now working as an assistive technology trainer and content creator, Jose empowers others through his website and podcast, Screenless Allies. Tune in as Jose discusses the differences between high school and college supports, overcoming employment barriers, and his advice for educators and families helping students prepare for independent adult lives. Learn more about Jose’s work at screenlessallies.com

    18 min

  6. 10/16/2025

    Spotlighting The Discovery Academy in Canyon ISD

    In this episode of Unlocking Potential, we’re spotlighting The Discovery Academy—an 18+ program in Canyon ISD helping young adults with disabilities build independence, learn life skills, and gain meaningful work experience. Since launching just a few years ago, the program has thrived, offering innovative opportunities like an in-house laundry business and student-created products such as laundry soap and room sprays. Hosts Winston and Danielle are joined by Shelli Jones, Director of Discovery 18+, and Bree Holbrook, Discovery 18+ Coordinator, who share how the program began, what makes it unique, and how it’s helping students prepare for life beyond high school." https://www.canyonisd.net/631635_3

    20 min

  7. 09/19/2025

    Bridging School and Adulthood: A Conversation on Transition Planning & Services

    In this kickoff to our new season, we sit down with Kristi Tucker, Evaluation & Transition Consultant at Region 16, to unpack what transition to adulthood services look like in schools. Kristi shares what educators need to know, what ARD committees are required to do, and what she’s seeing in schools across the region. We also spotlight two powerful tools from Texas SPED Support—Next Steps to Independence: Skills and Strategies and Connecting Community Supports—that can help families and educators guide students toward independence and meaningful post-school outcomes.  Next Steps to Independence: Skills and Strategies DocumentConnecting to Community Supports Document Contact Kristi Tucker at 806-677-5198 or kristi.tucker@esc16.net

    18 min

  8. 06/05/2025

    Presuming Potential: Teaching with Heart and Innovation

    In this episode, we sit down with Elizabeth Blackwell, a dedicated special education teacher serving elementary students with complex access needs. Elizabeth shares what it means to truly presume potential, foster inclusion, and creatively provide access to learning and connection for every child. With compassion, expertise, and innovation, she’s changing the game for students who need more than just support—they need champions. Tune in to hear her story, her strategies, and her heart for this work.

    38 min
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In this podcast we will discuss all aspects of Special Education in our schools today.

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