Nueva Innovative Learning Conference

Join REEL at Nueva's Innovative Learning Conference 2026

www.nuevaschool.org

Save the date for the 2026 Innovative Learning Conference! At a time characterized by open knowledge systems, new technologies, inclusive communities, and diverse perspectives, ILC at Nueva is a call to reimagine the way schools facilitate learning.

REEL is speaking on March 12  and we also have a booth - please come visit!

REEL's talk

Innovative Teaching for Neurodivergent and Twice-Exceptional Learners: The DEAR REEL Framework

Our system’s dependence on the “medical model” of disability socializes educators, families, AND students into thinking that deficits alone drive services. Reflecting on one’s stance toward inclusive education and disability is crucial for recognizing how ableist perspectives prevail in our discourse. In this workshop, we’ll explore how to disrupt these narratives by adopting strengths-based approaches that value the unique abilities each student brings. From there, we’ll discuss teaching strategies for neurodivergent student success using the DEAR REEL model framework. Our “DEAR REEL” framework combines best-practice research findings with first-hand parent experiences. It delineates four critical considerations for working with neurodivergent, 2e children - Develop Connection; Embrace Flexibility; Attend to Strengths; and Reframe Behavior. Participants explore real-life scenarios featuring ND/2e students, working interactively to create potential solutions to these real-life classroom case studies. We discuss these vignettes together, exploring strategies to reframe the situation, reduce stress and unexpected behaviors, and help students with differences feel supported. In addition, REEL will show participants how they can use a newly launched tool, ELLIS AI (developed by Children's Health Council in partnership with REEL, among others - www.askellis.org), to brainstorm ideas and identify practical solutions for their own challenging situations.