School Disrupted

Ep. 18 - The Inclusion Debate: Does it Work or is it a Charade?

Ever wonder why so many folks are throwing shade at inclusion in schools? Dive into the fiery debate around whether inclusion is good or bad for students. Join us as we unpack the controversies, assumptions, and diverse perspectives on inclusive education. Get ready for a riveting discussion that will keep you on the edge of your seat, eagerly awaiting the verdict on this contentious issue. Tune in and be part of the conversation that's shaking up the education landscape.

Ep. 16 - Labels Suck

In this explosive episode, I unveil the harsh impact of labeling in special education—where kids become targets, face misdiagnoses, and suffer from withheld support. Join our heated debate around the pros and cons of diagnostic labels, revealing stories of frustrated parents battling against these limitations. Our rallying cry urges parents to demand more—teachers that understand behavior, break free from unnecessary labels, and flexible support that goes beyond the status quo. Buckle up for a quick and gripping journey into the untold realities of education. Join me and my guest, Michelle Gail, a well-known special education expert, for this must listen episode.

Ep. 13 - We Owe You an Apology

We all know someone who has been failed by the school system. Maybe it was you! Toni launches season two with a heartfelt message to parents who feel failed by the school system. School isn't working for far too many kids and this season Toni will invite everyone to learn about what's happening behind the doors of the schoolhouse. In this season of School Disrupted, Toni Barton is joined by her partner in disruption, Michelle Gail. Think of them as education's gossip columnists, letting you in on the secrets schools won't spill to parents. It's your VIP ticket to the backstage drama, packed with controversies and clever solutions. This season Toni and Michelle fearlessly expose the reality behind 'That Kid' everyone complains about and expose other hard truths. With a blend of humor and unfiltered honesty, join Toni and Michelle as they invite you to both laugh and cringe as they seek to not only expose the truth but also inspire change.

Ep. 12 - I've Had It - Toni's Takeaways from "Do No Excuses Charters Harm Exceptional Learners"

In the latest episode of the "I've Had It" series, I delve deep into the world of "No-Excuses Charters," recognizing that this complex issue is not all black and white. These schools have seen both success and controversy in their quest to close the achievement gap. My take is not a soft one; it's a thought-provoking exploration of the hard truths that exist beneath the surface. We acknowledge that these schools have brought innovation to education, addressing long-standing problems in failing schools, and have produced impressive results. However, we also confront the harsh criticisms, especially regarding the exclusion of students with disabilities and the push-out of those who don't meet rigorous expectations. Join me for a nuanced reflection that challenges the status quo, acknowledges the good, and pushes for meaningful change in education.

Ep. 11 - I've Had It - Toni's Take on "DC's $55,000 Student"

In this episode, Toni delves into the continued failure of students with disabilities in Washington, D.C., despite significant financial investments. She sheds light on the limitations of financial resources alone and explore how poorly designed school environments may contribute to these disparities. Moreover, she raises questions about whether some students receive disability classifications due to unaddressed community needs as opposed to having a legitimate disability. She also shares the shortcomings of self-contained classrooms, which come with a hefty price tag but in some cases fall short in meeting students' needs. This episode pushes the education community toward enhanced accountability and encourages educators and policymakers to embrace disruptive approaches to improve outcomes.