Creating a Neuro-Affirming Environment: Strategies for Educators
- Date: September 23, 2026
- Time: 9:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
- Location: LCC West - Lansing, Michigan 5708 Cornerstone Dr., Lansing, MI 48917
- Registration Fee: $45
- Registration Deadline: September 13, 2026
- Topic Focus: Classroom Level
- Intended Audience: General and Special Education Teachers and Administrators, Ancillary/Support Staff, Paraeducators, School Counselors, Consultants, Families
- Lindsey Harr-Smith, M.A., CCC-SLP/L - START Project, Autism Education & Intervention Specialist
- Katie Oswald - Executive Director, Full Spectrum Agency for Autistic Adults
This full-day training supports educators in developing a deeper, more comprehensive understanding of Autistic experiences. Grounded in a neurodiversity-affirming framework, the training explores how language, expectations, and environments influence outcomes. Participants will learn about topics such as the Double Empathy Problem, Spoon Theory, and the importance of creating positive conditions, while gaining practical strategies to create inclusive, respectful, and supportive learning environments.
START is offering State Continuing Education Clock Hours (SCECHs), Social Work Credits, pending approval, and Certificates of Attendance. Participants must complete the Attendance Form provided at the training within 2 days of the training date to receive CEUs and/or a Certificate of Attendance.
Cancellation Policy: Cancellations must be submitted in writing to [email protected] by 9/13/26. We are unable to accept phone cancellations.
Substitutions: If you are unable to attend, you may send a substitute with details provided to [email protected] at least 24 hours before. Please follow the directions on this Substitution Form. You will need to include the substitute's name, profession, email, and any dietary needs. The registration payment will be applied to the substitute, not refunded to the original registrant.
START only accepts credit cards for payment.
By registering for this training, you agree to receive email updates from START (articles, updates, new tools and resources, and training and events information) and acknowledge and consent to the recording of the session(s). The recording may capture audio, video, and any shared content during the meeting.