"INCLUSION IS NOT SIMPLY ABOUT PHYSICAL PROXIMITY. IT IS ABOUT INTENTIONALLY PLANNING FOR THE SUCCESS OF ALL STUDENTS."
-National Inclusion Project
About Me
My name is Dr. Rebekah Dyer. I knew I wanted to be a teacher from a very young age, but it wasn’t until my first year in college that I felt called to be a special education teacher. I taught in a self-contained special education classroom for four years, as well as in a virtual school setting for special education for six years. I have been teaching for a total of 23 years, and at the post-secondary level for 12 years now in the field of special education. As I have worked with students in a variety of settings, including churches, I have become passionate about the inclusion of individuals with disabilities in all settings.
I completed my bachelor of arts degree in a dual-certification program in both elementary and special education. My masters degree is in educational leadership and my doctoral degree is in organizational leadership with an emphasis in special education. I have presented on many topics including autism, dyslexia, differentiated instruction/UDL strategies, engagement strategies, advocacy, special education and Individualized Education Plans. I am also certified in disability ministry. I have presented my research on disability ministry at an International Autism Conference in China.
My passion is supporting individuals with disabilities, specifically regarding inclusion in all settings. She is on the advisory board for the Lopes Academy at Grand Canyon University. The Lopes Academy provides an opportunity for individuals with developmental disabilities to experience college in a 2-year certificate program. She teaches classes in this program as well. Dr. Dyer also hosts an annual Disability Week for the university campus to increase knowledge of disability and promote inclusion.
I am the current chair of the Branch Council Executive Committee and National Board Member for the International Dyslexia Association.
I have published multiple articles and presented at numerous national conferences on disability and inclusion.
Research interests include special education, inclusion of individuals with disabilities, dyslexia, differentiated instruction and disability ministry.
Strengths in teaching include building relationships with students, communication, and classroom engagement.
I love training and engaging in conversations with teachers, administrators, parents and church leadership about inclusion. I create engaging trainings and professional development sessions that provide real-world applications and strategies that can be implemented right away.
I have been married to my highschool sweetheart for 25 years now, and we have two boys, 18 and 21. I am originally from Texas, but feel like an AZ native as I have lived here since 1992. I love to read and be outdoors!
