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Thursday May 21, 2026 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
When the path to inclusion isn’t clearly defined, collaboration becomes essential. This panel brings together families, educators, and therapists to share how they partner to support young children in inclusive early childhood settings. Panelists will discuss common barriers, creative problem-solving, and the role of strong relationships in building environments where every child can belong. Grounded in real experiences, the conversation highlights what it takes to move beyond limitations and create meaningful access and participation. Attendees will leave with practical strategies and a renewed sense of what’s possible when we work together.
Speakers
avatar for Sarah Buesching

Sarah Buesching

Sarah Buesching is an early childhood educator with over 15 years experience working with young children. She is the mom to two boys, the oldest of whom has Down syndrome and Limb-Girdle Muscular Dystrophy.
avatar for Christy Cooper

Christy Cooper

Assistant Director, North Carolina Down Syndrome Alliance
Christy Cooper is the Assistant Director for the North Carolina Down Syndrome Alliance. She joined the NCDSA staff in August 2024 after years of being both a volunteer and a parent supported by the organization. Christy worked for the Down Syndrome Diagnosis Network as their Family... Read More →
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Kate Pingel

Kate is a pediatric occupational therapist with 17 years of experience, including schools, outpatient clinics, and home-based therapy. She is the founder of Little Oaks Therapy Center, a pediatric OT and speech therapy clinic in Raleigh, NC. She holds a BA in Psychology from Smith... Read More →
KM

Kristen Montgomery

Kristen Montgomery is a pediatric physical therapist with over 30 years of experience working with children across a variety of clinical settings, including schools, acute care, outpatient therapy, and early intervention. She earned her Master of Science in Physical Therapy from Boston... Read More →
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BetsyJohn Lane

BetsyJohn Lane is a passionate advocate, mentor, and community leader dedicated to supporting individuals with Down syndrome and their families across North Carolina. As an Education and Inclusion Specialist with the North Carolina Down Syndrome Alliance (NCDSA), she plays a key role... Read More →
Thursday May 21, 2026 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
Windflower

Attendees (6)


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