Systemic Ableism in the IEP Process–and How We Can Change with Santanna Ficken

Inclusive Education Project (IEP) Podcast

Today’s episode is Part 1 of our conversation with Santanna Ficken, a mental health practitioner who proudly identifies as a disabled, autistic/ADHDer with multiple neurodivergencies. Santanna is a passionate advocate with MnNEAT (Minnesota Neurodivergent Education, Advocacy, and Therapy Services), which focuses on building trust and relationships in the neurodivergent community while advocating for social justice for all disabled people. Join us to learn more!

Show Highlights:

• Santanna’s background in advocacy and support for neurodivergent children and their families
• Ableism—what people should know about this form of discrimination
• Understanding the three types of ableism: institutional, internalized, and interpersonal
• The IEP process is clearly systemic ableism, as Santanna explains.
• Our focus on “fixing” a disability is wrong.
• The difficulties in trying to redirect IEP conversations to ensure that every child has an affirming educational experience with accessibility
• What Santanna wants every school team to know
• The need for plain language in IEPs that focuses on supporting the child

Links/Resources:

Connect with Santanna Ficken and MnNEAT: Website

Contact us on social media or through our website for more information on the IEP Learning Center: www.inclusiveeducationproject.org

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