Title: United by Strengths: The Power of Embracing All Abilities
Date: May 6th, 2025
Time: 10-11am CST/ 11am- 12pm EST
Description: This training is designed to provide educators with a comprehensive understanding of the significant benefits and importance of students with disabilities the classroom. By exploring how differing abilities enrich the learning environment, Educators will learn how these differences contribute to building stronger, more compassionate communities within schools. The training will emphasize the value of embracing students' unique strengths and challenges, showing how doing so fosters empathy, mutual respect, and meaningful collaboration. Through practical strategies and real-world examples, participants will discover how to cultivate a supportive atmosphere that not only enhances individual growth but also promotes teamwork, creativity, and problem-solving skills among all students. Ultimately, this training will equip educators with the tools and insights needed to create classrooms that celebrate differences and support the development of every student, regardless of ability.
*This training is catalogued with Train TN as a Health & Safety ECE licensure training for IECMH Foundations.
Presenter(s): Charlie Dugger, M.Ed., ECMH-E
I joined the AIMHiTN team in August 2024 as the Disability Inclusion Coordinator. I hold a Bachelor of Science in Education, Magna Cum Laude, and a Master of Education in Special Education, both from East Tennessee State University. My professional journey has focused on early childhood education, encompassing Part B services, school-aged preschool, and Part C services through Tennessee Early Intervention Services (TEIS), as well as educating elementary school-aged children. These experiences have equipped me with the tools and knowledge to better serve children and support their providers.
I am passionate about working with diverse student populations and believe that every child deserves the opportunity to connect with their peers and feel a sense of belonging. My role is to promote individual experiences, create safe spaces, and raise awareness about the importance of inclusion.
Outside of work, I enjoy being outdoors and staying active. I am a devoted Christian, wife, mother, daughter, and sister. Spending time with my family and making memories brings excitement and joy to my life. I feel truly blessed to be surrounded by love, laughter, and a strong sense of acceptance.