See the Student, Not the Label: Neurodivergent-Affirming Teaching with Amanda Morin and Emily Kircher-Morris, LPC
In this episode of Literacy Matters: Empowered Conversations, host Dr. Cheryl Lundy Swift speaks with Amanda Morin and Emily Kircher-Morris, co-authors of Neurodiversity Affirming Schools. Together, they unpack what it means to move beyond inclusion toward truly affirming every learner’s neurotype. The discussion explores how educators can better support neurodivergent students in reading and writing, create flexible classrooms, and foster collaboration among teachers and families to ensure all students feel understood, valued, and empowered to thrive.
Thought Leader: Amanda Morin
Amanda Morin is a neurodivergent neurodiversity activist, an award-winning author of six books, early childhood specialist, and nationally known speaker, deeply committed to fostering accessible and inclusive environments for neurodivergent individuals. She leverages her expertise in learning and child development, Universal Design for Learning (UDL), special education, advocacy, and mental health to distill complex data into easily digestible information for parents, educators, and employers who want to advance the mission of creating inclusive content, programs, and strategies to make the world accessible to all.
Thought Leader: Emily Kircher-Morris, LPC
Emily Kircher-Morris, LPC, is a counselor and neurodiversity advocate dedicated to creating inclusive, supportive environments for all learners. A twice-exceptional (2e) individual herself, she draws on personal and professional experience to empower neurodivergent clients and transform educational practices. Emily hosts the widely recognized Neurodiversity Podcast, featuring expert insights and lived experiences that promote understanding and acceptance. She speaks internationally and provides professional development for educators, clinicians, and parents, championing a world where every person is seen, heard, and valued.
Get to Know the Host: Dr. Cheryl Lundy Swift
Cheryl holds a doctoral degree in Educational Leadership, is a distinguished educational leader, and has been recognized with multiple awards for her achievements. She served as the lead curriculum developer for Learning Without Tears' Get Set for School Language and Literacy curriculum, which received an AEP Distinguished Achievement Award, and was awarded the Investors Bank Educator of the Year Award.
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