In April 2024, EALA brought together a group of dedicated educators in Nashville for an immersive School Study Tour focused on advancing inclusive education for students with disabilities and learning differences. Over the course of several days, participants visited four schools and engaged with educators, families, and community partners to explore effective, real-world practices.
The tour highlighted key themes such as culturally responsive teaching, strong family and community engagement, and the use of data to drive instruction and support. As part of EALA’s broader initiative to bridge knowledge and practice, this experience offered school teams a powerful opportunity to reflect, collaborate, and return home with actionable strategies for fostering inclusive, high-quality learning environments.
Feedback from Participants:
“Learning about the unique supports schools are providing for ELL and Newcomers has me thinking about opportunities for incorporating this topic into SELF Fellowship programming.” – Nashville School Study Tour Advisor
“The discussion protocols were helpful, and the mixed groupings, especially the alike-role group was great! I also appreciated the meal times that allowed us to connect with colleagues from other settings.” – Nashville School Study Tour Participant
“We were able to see so many unique perspectives on those promising practices. Participation in the EALA school visits allowed me to gain a better understanding of the nuances associated with each of them in very diverse settings.” – Chicago School Study Tour Participant
“As a partner organization working to support schools, it is invaluable to spend time embedded with school teams and visiting multiple schools with opportunities to see through multiple lenses.” – Nashville School Study Tour Advisor
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Resources:
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Nashville Newcomer Academy: Providing Support and Rigor for English Language Learners: In this case study, we discover how one Nashville middle school integrates culturally responsive teaching practices and community engagement to empower newcomer students. |
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Educate to Regulate: SEL in Nashville Schools: This Case Study dives into the “BeWell in School” program Fall-Hamilton Elementary School utilizes to support students with Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs). Founder of “BeWell in School”, Riki Rattner explores how the BeWell in School program integrates mindful breath and movement into the classroom, fostering a supportive. |
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A Deep Dive with Kemouy Bhalai: A School Study Tour Attendee’s Perspective: In this episode, EALA sits down with Kemouy Bhalai, an educator, and attendee of the EALA School Study Tours in Nashville. Kemouy shares her unique experiences, lessons learned, and the SST’s profound impact on her professional journey. Join us to discover the benefits of school study tours from an attendee’s perspective and gain valuable insights for anyone considering implementing or participating in similar programs. |
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5 Minutes with A’seret Dokubo: A School Study Tour Advisor’s Perspective: EALA is joined by A’seret Dokubo, the Managing Director of Fellowships for SELF and former School Study Tour advisor. Listen in to hear about her experience as a School Study Tour advisor, and how this experience has furthered her work in this field. |
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Translating Knowledge to Action: EALA Nashville School Tours 2024: This blog recaps EALA’s 2024 Nashville School Tours, where educators explored trauma-informed, inclusive, and culturally responsive practices to support diverse learners. Link |