Building Inclusive Schools: A Journey of Transformation and Belonging with Angela Macklin and Sue Wright

Angela Macklin is a dedicated special education teacher and inclusive systems leader who played a pivotal role in transforming Cottage Lake Elementary School into a hub of inclusivity. Angela’s expertise in Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and inclusive practices has now extended to the district-wide level in the North Shore School District, Washington. Her innovative approach is centered on fostering environments where every student can thrive, focusing on systemic change from the ground up. Sue Wright is an experienced kindergarten teacher at Cottage Lake Elementary, where she has taught for 15 years. She possesses firsthand knowledge of how segregated and inclusive practices impact students and faculty. Over the years, Sue has become a vital ally in implementing inclusive models at the school, working closely with Angela Macklin to break down barriers between general and special education. In this enlightening episode of Think Inclusive, host Tim Villegas engages with Angela Macklin and Sue Wright to uncover what happens when a school stops waiting for the ideal inclusive blueprint and takes matters into its own hands. At the heart of Cottage Lake Elementary’s transformation lies a commitment to fostering inclusive educational spaces where every student is valued and no classrooms are segregated. Through their account, Angela and Sue provide insider insights into creating schools where each child truly belongs, recounting their journey of trial, error, and ultimate success. Complete show notes and transcript: https://mcie.org/think-inclusive/building-inclusive-schools-a-journey-of-transformation-and-belonging-with-angela-macklin-and-sue-wright/