Rewriting the Narrative

Beyond Deficits: Why Dialect Awareness Matters in Special Education

In this episode, host Ben Tillotson is joined by Megan-Brette Hamilton, PhD, CCC-SLP, chief staff officer for multicultural affairs at the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), to explore the important distinction between language differences and communication disorders. Drawing on her experience as a clinician, researcher, and educator, Dr. Hamilton explains why dialects are rule-governed variations of language—not deficits—and how misunderstanding a student's linguistic background can lead to inappropriate evaluations, interventions, and missed opportunities to build on their strengths. The conversation explores the value of observing students across multiple settings, asking better questions rather than making assumptions, and focusing on what students can do instead of comparing them to a perceived standard. Dr. Hamilton also discusses the role of translanguaging, African American English, and other language variations in the classroom, emphasizing the importance of culturally responsive assessment and instruction. Throughout the episode, she highlights how meaningful collaboration among educators, speech-language pathologists, and families helps create more inclusive learning environments where every student can thrive.
 
Rewriting the Narrative is produced by Association Briefings.

Culture, Identity, and Special Education

In this episode of Rewriting the Narrative, host Ben Tillotson speaks with Dottie Vea, M.S., M.Ed., a PhD student in educational leadership and policy at the University of Utah, full-time special education teacher in the Salt Lake City School District, and a recipient of the Diversity Leadership Academy scholarship. Drawing from her Tongan heritage, Dottie shares how a collective mindset centered on “we” shapes her approach to teaching, advocacy, and relationship-building in special education. The conversation explores the importance of collaboration in student-centered IEPs, challenges engaging families who may feel disconnected from or distrustful of educational systems, and the value of finding common ground with students and communities beyond the classroom. Dottie and Ben also discuss culturally sustaining leadership, mentorship for educators from underrepresented backgrounds, balancing cultural identity with educational expectations, and the need for educators to reflect on their own wellbeing, assumptions, and biases before supporting students. Dottie also reflects on the lasting influence of her grandfather, a teacher and music educator in Tonga, whose example helped shape her passion for education and community.
Rewriting the Narrative is produced by Association Briefings.

From Strategic Plans to Student Impact: Inside CEC’s Vision for the Future

In this episode of Rewriting the Narrative, host Ben Tillotson sits down with Chad Rummel, M.Ed, CAE, Chief Executive Officer of the Council for Exceptional Children, for a conversation about leadership, advocacy, and the evolving future of special education. Rummel reflects on his path into education and shares the early classroom experience that shaped his belief in inclusion and individualized learning. From there, the discussion expands into the strategic direction of CEC, including how the organization moved from strengthening internal operations to focusing more intentionally on member needs and the broader special education field in the years following COVID. The conversation also explores CEC’s approach to strategic planning, which pairs aspirational goals with measurable success metrics and flexible quarterly operational planning. Along the way, Rummel highlights key initiatives and accomplishments, including Project 2020, the Diversity Leadership Academy, expanded policy engagement with Congress, and the behind-the-scenes partnership work that helped launch new resources like CEC’s AI-driven teacher empowerment toolkit. Looking ahead, Ben and Chad discuss the priorities likely to shape CEC’s next strategic plan, including educator shortages, responsible AI integration, stronger collaboration with general education, and the challenges emerging from ongoing federal restructuring in education policy.
 
Rewriting the Narrative is produced by Association Briefings.

Driven to Innovate Through Community: A Teacher of the Year’s Reflections

In this episode of Rewriting the Narrative, host Ben Tillotson is joined by Rebecca Saunders an intervention specialist at Hayes High School in Delaware, Ohio, and CEC's Teacher of the Year, to talk about her 23-year career supporting students with complex educational, behavioral, and medical needs. At the center of the conversation is a commitment to seeing and supporting the whole student—academically, emotionally, and beyond the classroom. Rebecca shares how strong professional communities, like CEC, have sustained her career, and how she has responded to real-world challenges with creativity and care. From launching a school-based pantry and free store during COVID to creating meaningful roles for students with disabilities, her work reflects a focus on dignity, inclusion, and practical impact. The episode also explores the realities educators face, from navigating systemic barriers to balancing IEP requirements, while emphasizing the importance of teamwork, starting small, and building on student strengths.
Rewriting the Narrative is produced by Association Briefings.

Advancing Inclusion: Humanizing Special Education from the US to Nigeria

In this episode of Rewriting the Narrative, host Ben Tillotson is joined by Dr. Joana Idakwo-Agha, member support officer for CEC’s Division of International Special Education Services, to explore what it takes to build inclusive, equitable special education across global contexts. Drawing on professional experiences in the United States, the United Kingdom, the UAE, and Nigeria, Dr. Idakwo-Agha reflects on common barriers she has observed worldwide, including delayed access to accommodations, low expectations for students with disabilities, and rigid definitions of success shaped by policy and systems rather than student potential. The conversation highlights how socioeconomic conditions influence access to transition supports and community partnerships, and why effective inclusion begins with families and culturally grounded understanding of disability. Idakwo-Agha also discusses tailoring educator professional development to local needs, the growing role of technology and social media in connecting families to resources, and the contrast between formal service infrastructures in the U.S. and more community-based supports elsewhere.
 
Rewriting the Narrative is produced by Association Briefings.

At the Table Together: Parents, Educators, and the Human Side of Special Education

In this episode of Rewriting the Narrative, host Ben Tillotson is joined by parent advocates Debra Evans and Maria Fausto for an honest conversation about navigating the complexities of special education. Drawing from their personal experiences, Debra and Maria share what it’s like to move through systems involving IEPs, early medical interventions, and school-based supports—and the pivotal moments that transformed them into advocates for their children. The discussion highlights the importance of truly understanding a child’s needs, building collaborative relationships with educators, and developing the skills and confidence to advocate effectively. Debra and Maria also emphasize the critical role of clear communication among parents, schools, and medical professionals, and why empathy, respect, and gratitude are essential to strong parent–professional partnerships. Throughout the episode, they call for deeper collaboration, adequate resources, and greater awareness to ensure every child receives the support they deserve. The conversation closes with reflections on the lasting impact educators have—not only on students, but on families and entire communities.
 
Rewriting the Narrative is produced by Association Briefings.

Starting Strong: Early Education, Intervention, and the Systems That Shape Children’s Lives

In this episode of Rewriting the Narrative, host Ben Tillotson sits down with Dr. LaShorage Shaffer, associate professor at the University of Michigan–Dearborn and a veteran educator, to explore the realities of early childhood education. Together, they challenge common misconceptions, emphasizing that the field goes far beyond babysitting to include intentional instruction that builds foundational academic, social, and life skills. Dr. Shaffer highlights the importance of strong family partnerships, culturally responsive teaching, and early intervention in shaping children’s long-term development. She also shares personal insights from her own experience navigating early intervention services for her son, illustrating both the impact and the challenges families often face. The conversation addresses systemic barriers to access, the need for more cohesive policies, and concludes with an optimistic look at the future of the field—driven by a new generation of passionate educators.
 
Rewriting the Narrative is produced by Association Briefings.

How AI Can Empower, Not Replace Educators

In this episode of Rewriting the Narrative, host Ben Tillotson sits down with Richard Capone, CEO and co-founder of Let's Go Learn, to discuss the evolving role of AI in education and special education. Richard reflects on his lifelong passion for technology and shares how AI can help teachers personalize instruction, automate time-consuming technical writing, and create more responsive, student-centered learning experiences. They also explore AI’s potential to reduce teacher burnout, spark creativity, and strengthen—not replace—the human relationships at the core of education. Richard underscores the need for thoughtful, well-crafted AI policies in schools to ensure tools are used safely, ethically, and effectively. It’s an insightful conversation about the future of teaching and learning, and how AI can support educators in ways that truly matter.
 
Rewriting the Narrative is produced by Association Briefings.

50 Years of IDEA: Reflecting on Progress, Purpose, and Possibility

In this episode of Rewriting the Narrative, host Ben Tillotson commemorates the 50th anniversary of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) with guests Dr. Bill Bogdan and Dr. Luanne Purcell. Together, they reflect on how IDEA has transformed the landscape of education over the past five decades—guaranteeing access, inclusion, and opportunity for millions of students with disabilities. The conversation celebrates the progress made while acknowledging the challenges that remain, from ensuring equitable funding to supporting teachers and families. They also highlight the vital role of CEC and its local chapters in strengthening the special education community, advancing advocacy, and preparing the next generation of educators to carry IDEA’s mission forward.
 
Rewriting the Narrative is produced by Association Briefings.

Building Inclusive Workplaces: Preparing Students with Disabilities for Meaningful Careers

In this episode of Rewriting the Narrative, host Ben Tillotson sits down with Kelie Hess, an experienced advocate and trainer for people with disabilities and part of Utah State University's Institute for Disability Research, Policy, and Practice. Together, they explore why community integrated employment is so vital for people with disabilities. Kelie shares how meaningful work goes far beyond a paycheck — offering connection, personal growth, and a stronger sense of belonging in society. The conversation addresses common employer misconceptions about accommodations, highlighting how small adjustments often benefit the entire workplace. They also discuss the importance of early experiences and intentional education to prepare students with disabilities for the world of work.
 
Rewriting the Narrative is produced by Association Briefings.