Creating a Neuro-Affirming Environment: Strategies for Educators
Date: September 23, 2026
Time: 9 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
Presenters:
- Lindsey Harr-Smith, M.A., CCC-SLP/L - START Project, Autism Education & Intervention Specialist
- Katie Oswald - Executive Director, Full Spectrum Agency for Autistic Adults
Description: 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.
Continuing Education Units (CEUs): 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.