Professional Development: IEP to Ph.D.

IEP to PhD is an engaging, interactive professional development experience for K–12 and higher education educators. Together, we explore what becomes possible when we stop viewing educational challenges as limitations and start seeing potential.

Led by Dr. Christopher Sclafani, this two-hour session weaves personal narrative, research-informed discussion, interactive activities, and meaningful reflection. Drawing from Dr. Sclafani’s own journey from being an IEP student to earning a Ph.D., IEP to PhD invites educators to rethink how they understand student potential, achievement, and success.

Participants examine how labels and assumptions can shape expectations, consider their powerful role in students’ long-term educational journeys, and leave with practical strategies to create more encouraging, possibility-focused learning environments where every student is seen as capable of growth and achievement.