Dr. Chris Closson joins The Rural Voice to discuss his collaborative research with cohost Dr. Christopher F. Silver on how educators’ beliefs about disability and student potential shape inclusive classroom practices. Their study, “Investigating the Mindset of Educators Regarding Students with Disabilities,” introduces the Hierarchy for an Inclusive Mindset, a framework that moves from professional development and evidence-based practices toward personalization, collaboration, anti-ableism, and a focus on students’ capabilities. The conversation examines what this framework means for rural schools facing limited staffing, funding, and access to professional development. Dr. Closson explains how ongoing coaching, regional partnerships, technology, and strong relationships among schools, families, and communities can support meaningful inclusion. He also discusses plans to develop an assessment that educators can use for reflection and school leaders can use for identifying professional development needs.
Guest Biography
Dr. Closson brings over two decades of experience in special education and educational leadership. He began his career as a high school special education teacher in New York State, before continuing his work as a teacher in Tennessee. His dedication to inclusive education led him to a district-level administrative role, where he championed equity and inclusion across schools. Throughout his career, Dr. Closson has been a driving force behind the implementation of the co-teaching model and inclusive practices to foster collaborative environments that support diverse learners. He strives to prepare preservice teachers to create inclusive, student-centered classrooms. His work continues to shape the next generation of educators with a strong foundation in inclusive pedagogy.
Article Featured in the Episode
Closson, C. T., & Silver, C. F. (2026). Investigating the mindset of educators regarding students with disabilities. Journal of Educational Leadership and Policy Studies, 10(1), 1–31.
Article: https://go.southernct.edu/jelps/files/2026-spring/8p_Investigating_the_Mindset_of_Educators.pdf
Journal of Educational Leadership and Policy Studies: https://go.southernct.edu/jelps/
Empire State University: https://www.sunyempire.edu/
IRIS Center at Vanderbilt University: https://iris.peabody.vanderbilt.edu/
National Center on Intensive Intervention: https://intensiveintervention.org/
CEEDAR Center: https://ceedar.education.ufl.edu/