Deficit-Based Language
The only way to receive special education services for kids is by focusing on their deficits. I received a DM from one of you the other day about this reality:…
The IEP Meeting Every Child With a Disability Deserves
Peter and I both cried at Penny’s annual meeting to discuss her IEP (Individualized Education Plan) goals. We cried because we were so overwhelmed with pride in her and gratitude…
S5 E10 | How Kids Can Fight Racism with Dr. Jemar Tisby
Can our children really make a difference in the fight against racism? Dr. Jemar Tisby, author of How to Fight Racism Young Reader’s Edition, talks with Amy Julia Becker about…
In Her Own Words: Penny’s Advice to a Student Beginning Ninth Grade
I asked our daughter Penny to take a few moments to reflect on her experience in ninth grade. We talked about how there are all sorts of things that happen…
Learning Science as a Teen in High School With an Intellectual Disability
Should Penny take Chemistry next year, as a tenth grader with an intellectual disability? This is the question set before us as we began to plan with Penny and her…
AJB Recommends: Resources About Critical Race Theory
Parents are worried about their kids learning Critical Race Theory in the classroom. Some are concerned about indoctrination. Some are worried about kids only learning the negative aspects of American…
Every Kid Deserves a Community of Support
Earlier this month, I shared about the PATH process we participated in with Penny, in which we dreamed about her future. It’s been amazing to see the difference that meeting…
How Community Promotes Flourishing
Where do you want to be in five years? Who do you want to be in five years? What do you want to be true of your everyday life in…
S3 E17 | How the Church Can Support School Reform with Nicole Baker Fulgham
Do we, as a society, truly think that every child can succeed in school? Nicole Baker Fulgham, president and founder of The Expectations Project, talks with Amy Julia about the…
Dreaming and Planning With Our Teenager With Down Syndrome
We had a planning meeting last February for our teenage daughter, Penny, who has Down syndrome. Penny invited friends, family, and teachers to join her for this conversation. Dreaming and…
