Research suggests that successful inclusionary practices lead to great benefits for students with autism.  While successful inclusion may be challenging, practical suggestions have been shown to lead school teams to successful outcomes for all students, not only those with ASD.  The presenters will explore research related to outcomes of successful inclusive practices and examine perceptions that may support or preclude inclusion. The purpose of this webinar is to equip school personnel with tools and strategies needed to build inclusive schools.

Bios: Paige Carter joined VCU ACE in 2015 as a technical assistance associate. She is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. Paige received a Bachelor’s degree in special education from East Central University in Ada, Oklahoma in 1991 and her Master’s degree in Early Childhood Special Education from VCU in 1997.  Paige served as a special education teacher beginning in 1991, supporting mainly with students with autism and developmental delays in Hanover, Caroline and Spotsylvania’s school divisions. She earned distinction as a National Board Certified Teacher in 2006.  She also served as an autism specialist and Autism Coordinator in Spotsylvania County. Paige is currently pursuing a PhD in Special Education and Disability Policy at VCU.  Paige lives with her family in Caroline County, VA.  

Noel has been working with people with autism since 1994. She holds degrees from the University of Maryland Baltimore County (UMBC) and Rutgers University.  She began her career in autism working under Mary Jane Weiss and David Celiberi at the Rutgers Autism Program before moving to Virginia in 2001 to work as Program Director for Commonwealth Autism Services.  Noel has worked in the public school setting as a para professional and special education teacher and has supported student with autism, deaf-blindness, and developmental delays. In 2008, Noel created and is currently teaching autism coursework endorsed by the Virginia Autism Council at Rappahannock Community College. She is a founding member of the Virginia Autism Council and is certified in behavior analysis. Noel joined the ACE team in 2011 and supports public school divisions in the Northern Neck of Virginia, Hampton City, and Spotsylvania County. Noel lives in the Northern Neck of Virginia with her husband and four kids and loves spending time on the Chesapeake Bay with her family.