Session Description:
When we consider Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in Education, neurodiverse students are often
overlooked. Educators are aware of DEI and the “inclusion” component for these students but often
are not aware of strategies to address the “Diversity” and “Equity’ components of DEI specific to
this population. As a learning specialist, part of my role is to educate the school community on best
practices for teaching neurodiverse students. Sharing strategies with educators to help support
neurodiverse students is an essential part of DEI.
Session Objectives:
- Identify why neurodiverse students should be included in DEI initiatives.
- Create strategies for instruction to ensure that neurodiverse students are included and
identified as part of DEI.
- Apply shared support strategies for neurodiverse students with colleagues at school.
Themes: Instructional strategies for advancing DEI and strategies for addressing challenges to
advance DEI
Audience:
PK-12 educators, staff and administrators
Presenter:
Dr. Jessica Jefferis, EdD (she/her/hers)
Presenter Biography:
Dr. Jessica Jefferis is the Director of the St. Ignatius Academic Achievement Program at Lansdale
Catholic High School. She is also an adjunct instructor and dissertation advisor at Gwynedd Mercy
University and a proud member of Gwynedd’s 1st cohort in the Ed. D. Program. Her goal is to educate
school communities on best practices for students with learning differences.