Accepting 2024-2025 Johnson Fellows for Anti-Ableist Teaching Applicants

An Inclusive Practice Initiative: Welcoming Disability Diversity

The School of Leadership of Education Sciences (SOLES) at the University of San Diego (USD) is fortunate to have a young and thriving history with the Johnson Family Foundation. Since 2015, the Johnson Fellows Program has supported teachers in the San Diego region, from both public and Catholic schools, through professional development that focuses on how they, as teaching professionals, can best support students with learning disabilities in general education classrooms.

Engaging in a week-long summer institute, teacher leaders work together to learn and plan to support inclusion at their school sites. The model differs from traditional approaches as we address cultural assumptions and beliefs that impact how we view disability. Many participants make transformations in their classrooms. Many provide professional development and support to colleagues and lead change at the school level. Some facilitate growth district-wide.

The program offers an opportunity for local educators who wish to deepen their understanding of how to support students with disabilities and want to become leaders of inclusive practices in their school communities. Johnson Fellows reflect on their teaching practices, learn how cultural and social contexts influence students’ achievement and behavior, and create support networks for colleagues. They learn to identify ableist practice and then consider alternative and creative ways to teach and assess students, providing a more inclusive learning environment.

Johnson Fellows requirements:

• Be a K-12 teacher or school administrator 
• Have demonstrated an interest in developing professionally and becoming a teacher leader and change agent at your school site
• Commit to long-term engagement with issues of equity and diversity

Benefits:

1. Participate in a week-long summer institute from June 24 to June 28, 2024 with an opportunity to earn graduate-level extension units
2. Receive books to diversify your classroom library 
3. Connect and collaborate with a diverse group of teachers
4. Share what you learn by leading professional development at your school site 
5. Receive support through virtual follow-up sessions during the school year
6. Apply for a $400 grant to support inclusion in your classroom

Please apply if you are interested in becoming a 2024-2025 Johnson Fellow. The institute will offer one cohort entirely online and one cohort in person.

For more information, watch this video.

Space is limited, Apply Now