369: The Power of Real Inclusion with Andrew Goff, Ed.D.

Welcome to the final weeks of the school year. Across the country, school districts are winding down to summer break from now through mid-June. It is a busy time for everyone involved in education. Today’s episode explores the power of inclusion, particularly when policies don’t always align with what best serves our students. We are thrilled to welcome Andrew Goff back to the show for his unique perspective on this topic. Join us!

Andrew Goff taught early childhood special education in five different least restrictive environments over 12 years. He is currently the lead instructor at Colorado Northwestern Community College. Based on his life as an educator, he wrote the memoir, Love is a Classroom , and is a fierce advocate for “inclusion—early, everywhere, and always.” His latest book, Shattered and Becoming : A Teacher’s Journey Between Policy and Purpose, was published in March, 2026.

Show Highlights:

• Mixed messages and confusion for teachers
• Andrew’s motivation to write his second book, Shattered and Becoming
• Andrew’s message to teachers: “You are not alone. The system is set up to confuse you.”
• Recognizing the power dynamics in the educational system
• “What is my range of acceptable behavior?”
• It starts with trust. (Parents need to be able to trust their children’s educators.)
• Words to teachers who understand inclusion and need to advocate for students
• The importance of documentation
• Being curious is always the best approach.
• Concrete data can make all the difference in securing services for a student.
• Andrew’s message to administrators
• Creating community begins with shared values.

Resources:

Connect with Dr. Andrew Goff: Website , YouTube , and TikTok

Contact us on social media or through our website for more information on the IEP Learning Center: www.inclusiveeducationproject.org .

Thank you for listening!

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