Disability Symposium hosted by Vanguard University to focus on inclusion in schools, faith communities – OCDE Newsroom

Quick look: Vanguard University in Costa Mesa will host its first Disability Symposium on June 25, offering sessions on inclusive teaching, IEPs, trauma-responsive strategies and more. The event is open to educators, families and community members.
Vanguard University’s School of Education is inviting educators, families and community members to its upcoming Disability Symposium, focused on advancing inclusion in schools and faith-based settings.
The event, billed as a day of learning, connection and community building, will take place from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Wednesday, June 25 at Vanguard’s campus in Costa Mesa. Keynote speakers, breakout sessions, roundtable discussions and live entertainment will center on the theme “Making inclusion work in schools and faith communities,” according to organizers.
Breakfast and lunch will be provided, and ASL interpretation will be available.
“This symposium is about creating spaces where every individual is seen, valued and supported — in our schools, in our congregations and in our communities,” said Dr. Jeff Hittenberger, dean of the School of Education at Vanguard. “By bringing together educators, families and faith leaders, we hope to spark meaningful conversations and equip participants with practical tools to make inclusion a reality.”
The program will begin with a recorded conversation between Hittenberger, who previously served as OCDE’s chief academic officer, and Orange County Superintendent Dr. Stefan Bean, who has spoken about how his experiences as a student with a disability have shaped his perspective as an educator.
Later, symposium sessions will cover inclusive teaching practices, trauma-responsive strategies, the IEP process, disability ministry and positive behavior supports.
Featured speakers include Matthew Kenslow, a Vanguard graduate and author who shares his perspective growing up with autism; Dr. Ludmila Prasolova, a professor and workplace inclusion expert; and Pastor Craig Johnson, founder of Champions Club and a longtime advocate for families navigating disabilities.
Vanguard University is located at 55 Fair Drive in Costa Mesa, and the event is sponsored by the Lilly Endowment Inc. During the lunch hour, attendees will enjoy a performance by the Hi Hopes band, a musical group composed of adults with developmental disabilities from the Hope Center for the Arts.
 For more information, visit the Disability Symposium registration webpage.
Dr. Stefan BeanOCDEOrange County Department of Education

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