MSCI 2008

June 23-25, 2008
Theme: The Inclusive Classroom

Keynote Speakers:

Jonathan Mooney, Marilyn Friend, Ph.D. , Rick Lavoie, M.A., M.Ed.

Rick Lavoie and Marilyn Friend are internationally recognized authorities in special education who are skilled in collaboration, co-teaching, inclusive school practices, team building, and shared problem solving. Their work is designed to help leaders use data and standards to build high-achieving schools dedicated to both teacher and student success. A teacher and administrator's roles in building such classrooms and schools include:

• Creating learning and working environments where all individuals feel significance, respect and safety, including valuing diverse cultures;
• Desiring to contribute to the common good of all individuals and their communities;
• Valuing democratic principles and practices;
• Committing to individual and social health that balances intellectual, ethical, moral and personal growth;
• Helping students and faculty to be clear, systematic and rigorous about significant matters;
• Encouraging individuals to continually try out ideas and practices for themselves and see where they work and where they prove inadequate;
• Scaffolding individuals' abilities and skills to organize information in meaningful ways;
• Creating flexible learning arrangements that balance group and individual needs;
• Building teaching teams which share a common philosophy and commitment;
• Allowing teachers to assume professional responsibility for decision making;
• Producing tangible results;
• Creating teams that attract and retain the most talented individuals.

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