TPP 494: Lindsay Lyons on Navigating Hard School Conversations Around Inclusion, Equity, and Neurodivergence

Lindsay Lyons, an educational justice coach, former NYC public school teacher, and parent who helps families and educators create space for real, meaningful conversations with kids joins me to talk about the challenges educators and families face when navigating hard conversations in schools, especially around inclusion, equity, and neurodivergence. We talk about the importance of student voice, creating safe spaces for dialogue, and addressing the fears and barriers that can get in the way of real change. At the heart of it all is dignity—how honoring kids’ humanity and lived experiences is foundational to building school environments where all learners can truly belong. About Lindsay Lyons Lindsay Lyons is an educational justice coach who helps families and educators create spaces for real conversations with kids about current events, hard history, and other high-emotion topics. A parent and former NYC public school teacher, she holds a PhD in Leadership and Change, and is the founder of the blog and podcast, Time for Teachership. Lindsay believes all students deserve literacy, criticality, and leadership skills. Things you'll learn from this episode Why creating emotionally safe spaces for honest conversation is essential for learning and connection How listening to students’ insights can shift adult perspectives and lead to more just educational practices Why meaningful professional development requires ongoing, year-long support rather than one-off workshops How restorative practices and constructive disorientation can strengthen community and transform school culture Why engaging families in difficult conversations—with respect and care—is critical to lasting change Resources mentioned Lindsay Lyons website Grab the free Staying Engaged framework from Lindsay Lindsay’s Rstorative Conference Companion (free access for listeners) Want to Spark Change? Create “Constructive Disorientation” (blog post by Lindsay Lyons) Controversy in the Classroom: The Democratic Power of Discussion by Diana Hess Challenge Day Zoretta Hammond Culturally Responsive Teaching and the Brain: Promoting Authentic Engagement and Rigor Among Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Students by Zoretta Hammond Ready for Rigor Dr. Chris Wells Explains the Theory of Positive Disintegration (Tilt Parenting Podcast) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices