When your child needs special education support, the journey can feel frustrating, disorienting, and lonely. With long waitlists and limited access to the right resources, a system meant to serve too often overwhelms rather than empowers families looking for help. In this episode, NYC First Deputy Mayor Randy Mastro and Deputy Chancellor Christina Foti join host Tracey Spencer Walsh for a powerful conversation on inclusion, equity, and what real progress in special education looks like for NYC families. With personal stories and professional insight, these leaders share real solutions and a bold vision guiding the city’s push toward inclusive, accessible education for all students. What You’ll Take Away from This Episode: 🟡 How personal experiences shaped lifelong commitments to public service and advocacy for both the First Deputy Mayor and Deputy Chancellor 🟡 Why smaller class sizes and early childhood investment are key to better outcomes 🟡 The role of DIAL (Division of Inclusive and Accessible Learning) and how it’s reshaping education in NYC 🟡 Why every teacher must be equipped to teach students with disabilities 🟡 How specialized autism programs like NEST are delivering 97% graduation rates 🟡 What inclusion really means and why it goes beyond just a seat at the table 🟡 How NYC is shifting from balanced literacy to phonics-based instruction to meet the needs of students with dyslexia 🟡 Why hope, advocacy, and parent choice must be at the center of special education reform "We know what works. Now we must build the infrastructure and give every child, no matter their need or neighborhood, the opportunity to thrive." – Deputy Chancellor Christina Foti This episode is filled with practical vision, policy insight, and heartfelt reflection. Whether you’re a parent, educator, or advocate, it’s a must-listen that will leave you better informed and truly inspired. Press play and step into the future of inclusive education.