Reimagining Special Education through Deeper Learning and the Whole Brain, Whole Child Model

Whole Brain, Whole Child at Ulster BOCES

Welcome to the first episode of the Whole Brain, Whole Child podcast — an inspiring series from Ulster BOCES spotlighting transformative practices that are reshaping education for neurodiverse students who need a different way of learning.

In Episode 1, our host, Dr. Jill Berardi, Assistant Superintendent of Learning & Design, and her guests Principal Christina Rutella, Social Worker Eric Cruz, and Teacher Rosie Pagana introduce listeners to a groundbreaking initiative at the Center for Innovative Teaching & Learning (CITL) that is reframing how all work together to support every aspect of a student’s development — academically, socially, emotionally, and physically.

Gone are the days of working in silos. At CITL, the entire educational community — from teachers, related services providers, and social workers, to support staff and instructional assistants — co-design to create learning experiences collaboratively. Principles from neuroscience, child development, and educational psychology are integrated to create a learning environment that nurtures all aspects of every child's growth— with their whole brain and whole self at the center.

Classrooms look and feel different here. Students are encouraged to move, find their passion, co-regulate, and contribute to decisions about their learning. From choosing how they engage to influencing the layout of their environment, student voice is deeply embedded in the daily routine. And a stable of caring educational professionals are available to support them at every step of their learning journey.

Listeners will get a glimpse of the successful approach for integrating occupational therapists, physical therapists, social worker services, and other related services directly into classroom activities. They'll also learn about project-based learning initiatives like the Level Up Cafe and workplace learning challenges that are igniting student creativity and engagement at the high school site. These ventures foster a strong sense of belonging and allow students to develop meaningful life and job skills within a supportive environment.

Tune in to Whole Brain, Whole Child at Ulster BOCES to hear how the faculty and staff at the Center for Innovative Teaching & Learning are leading with heart, science, and collaboration to serve students in a truly transformative way.

Available now at https://youtu.be/CKgKE6FyYFA and all major podcast platforms.