Praise Over Punishment: Reimagining Schools for Students

When schools emphasize problems over potential, many students come to doubt that they are capable, especially those with ADHD and other learning differences. Emerging research from learner-centered schools points to a different path, one that boosts students’ success by prioritizing their interests, strengths, and needs.

This webinar will explore findings from a national study by Education Reimagined of public schools that successfully serve students with ADHD and other learning differences. These schools are reimagining conventional approaches by building strong educator-student relationships, connecting lessons to student interests, expanding accommodations, and teaching young people how to practice self-advocacy.

This presentation will show how these practices support engagement, confidence, and academic growth. And you’ll leave with practical strategies to help educators see your child more fully, strengthen your advocacy efforts in IEP and 504 Plan meetings, and support your child’s growth as a confident learner.

In this webinar, you will learn:

• How to shift from a deficit-based perspective to a strengths-based mindset when talking about your child with educators and support teams
• Ways to help teachers connect learning to your child’s interests to increase engagement, motivation, and persistence
• How to advocate for accommodations that support regulation, focus, and learning, not just compliance or behavior management
• Practical strategies for helping your child identify, communicate, and advocate for their own needs at school
• Which questions to ask during IEP and 504 Plan meetings to ensure plans reflect your child’s strengths, interests, goals, and support needs