October 16, 2019
National Council of Teachers of Mathematics Regional Conference - Opening Session
Salt Lake City, Utah
5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Redefining Success: Supporting All Students to Reach Their Full Potential
Juli, Alex, and Jessica provide a unique perspective on how to support each and every student to learn. Juli, a university mathematics educator, provides the viewpoint of both the educator and the parent of children with special needs. Alex, in her fourth year in college, shares her story related to both medical and educational struggles. Jessica, a college sophomore, provides the position of both the sibling and student with a disability and connects her experiences as a high achiever to a new perspective on Universal Design for Learning.(https://www.nctm.org/saltlakecity2019/)

May 5, 2019
Learning and the Brain: Schools Social Brains Conference
New York, NY
1:30 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Small Groups, Big Gains: Making Mathematics Accessible and Equitable in Small Group Settings
Juli, Alex, and Jessica provide a unique perspective on how to support each and every student, even those with special needs, to learn mathematics and succeed in school. Learn how to help all students reach their potential, the social interaction issues those with special needs face, a new perspective of using UDL for mathematics, and how small group instruction allows you to differentiate instruction for both remediation and enrichment for students who are gifted and for those with special needs. Juli, a university mathematics educator, provides the viewpoint of both the educator and the parent of children with special needs. Alex, in her third year in college, shares her story related to both medical and educational struggles. Jessica, a college freshman majoring in neuroscience and statistics, provides the position of both the sibling and student with a disability and connects her experiences as a high achiever to a new perspective on Universal Design for Learning.

December 7, 2018
Association of Teachers of Mathematics in New England (ATMNE) - Featured Presentation
Warwick, Rhode Island
1:30 p.m. - 2:45 p.m.
What if we redefined success?
Juli, Alex, and Jessica provide a unique perspective on how to support each and every student to learn. Juli, a university mathematics educator, provides the viewpoint of both the educator and the parent of children with special needs. Alex, a college freshman, shares her story related to both medical and educational struggles. Jessica, a high school junior, provides the position of both the sibling and student with a disability and connects her experiences as a high achiever to a new perspective on Universal Design for Learning.

October 29, 2018
Upland U - Keynote
Upland, CA
8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.
What if we redefined success?
Juli, Alex, and Jessica provide a unique perspective on how to support each and every student to learn. Juli, a university mathematics educator, provides the viewpoint of both the educator and the parent of children with special needs. Alex, a college freshman, shares her story related to both medical and educational struggles. Jessica, a high school junior, provides the position of both the sibling and student with a disability and connects her experiences as a high achiever to a new perspective on Universal Design for Learning.

February 16, 2018
University of North Carolina, Charlotte - Chancellor's Diversity Series
Charlotte, North Carolina
9:30 AM - 11:00 AM
Redefining Success: Supporting All Students to Reach Their Full Potential
Juli, Alex, and Jessica provide a unique perspective on how to support ALL students to learn. Juli, a university mathematics educator, provides the viewpoint of both the educator and the parent of children with special needs. Alex, a college sophomore, shares her story related to both medical and educational struggles. Jessica, a high school senior, provides the position of both the sibling and student with a disability and connects her experiences to a new perspective on Universal Design for Learning.

February 7, 2018
Florida Core Math Summit
Hutchinson Island, FL
11:15 am - 12:30 pm
Redefining Success: Supporting All Students to Reach Their Full Potential
Juli, Alex, and Jessica provide a unique perspective on how to support ALL students to learn. Juli, a university mathematics educator, provides the viewpoint of both the educator and the parent of children with special needs. Alex, a college sophomore, shares her story related to both medical and educational struggles. Jessica, a high school senior, provides the position of both the sibling and student with a disability and connects her experiences to a new perspective on Universal Design for Learning.

January 12, 2018
Opening Keynote - Osceola School District ECET2 Conference
Kissimmee, FL
TBD
Redefining Success: Supporting All Students to Reach Their Full Potential
Juli, Alex, and Jessica provide a unique perspective on how to support ALL students to learn. Juli, a university mathematics educator, provides the viewpoint of both the educator and the parent of children with special needs. Alex, a college sophomore, shares her story related to both medical and educational struggles. Jessica, a high school senior, provides the position of both the sibling and student with a disability and connects her experiences to a new perspective on Universal Design for Learning.

October 23, 2017
Keynote Speakers - Joint Conference of Michigan Council of Teachers of Mathematics and Michigan Council for Exceptional Children
Lansing, Michigan
TBD
Redefining Success: Supporting All Students to Reach Their Full Potential
Juli, Alex, and Jessica provide a unique perspective on how to support ALL students to learn. Juli, a university mathematics educator, provides the viewpoint of both the educator and the parent of children with special needs. Alex, a college freshman, shares her story related to both medical and educational struggles. Jessica, a high school junior, provides the position of both the sibling and student with a disability and connects her experiences to a new perspective on Universal Design for Learning.

September 29 – 30, 2017
Keynote Speakers - Alaska Cross Content Conference
Fairbanks, Alaska
TBD
Redefining Success: Supporting All Students to Reach Their Full Potential
Juli, Alex, and Jessica provide a unique perspective on how to support ALL students to learn. Juli, a university mathematics educator, provides the viewpoint of both the educator and the parent of children with special needs. Alex, a college freshman, shares her story related to both medical and educational struggles. Jessica, a high school junior, provides the position of both the sibling and student with a disability and connects her experiences to a new perspective on Universal Design for Learning.

July 28, 2017
Keynote - Conference for K-12 Inclusive Educators
Midland Texas
TBD
Redefining Success: Supporting All Students to Reach Their Full Potential
Juli, Alex, and Jessica provide a unique perspective on how to support ALL students to learn. Juli, a university mathematics educator, provides the viewpoint of both the educator and the parent of children with special needs. Alex, a college freshman, shares her story related to both medical and educational struggles. Jessica, a high school junior, provides the position of both the sibling and student with a disability and connects her experiences to a new perspective on Universal Design for Learning.

July 11, 2017
Opening Speaker - Conference for the Advancement of Mathematics Teaching (CAMT)
Forth Worth, Texas
8:00 AM - 9:30 AM
Redefining Success: Supporting All Students to Reach Their Full Potential
Juli, Alex, and Jessica provide a unique perspective on how to support ALL students to learn. Juli, a university mathematics educator, provides the viewpoint of both the educator and the parent of children with special needs. Alex, a college freshman, shares her story related to both medical and educational struggles. Jessica, a high school junior, provides the position of both the sibling and student with a disability and connects her experiences to a new perspective on Universal Design for Learning.

July 10, 2017
Opening Speaker - Summer Math Institute
Parkway, MO
9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Supporting Instructional Shifts in Mathematics to Engage ALL Students in Higher Order Thinking
Juli, Alex, and Jessica provide a unique perspective on how to support ALL students to learn. Juli, a university mathematics educator, provides the viewpoint of both the educator and the parent of children with special needs. Juli Dixon shares five essential instructional shifts that emphasize the mathematical practices and the content they support. Participants engage with high cognitive demand tasks and how to support all students to engage with them during instruction. Participants enhance understanding of the shifts through the use of authentic videos as well as through Alex's perspectives on supporting learners who struggle. Alex, a college freshman, shares her story related to both medical and educational struggles. Jessica, a high school junior, provides the position of both the sibling and student with a disability and connects her experiences to a new perspective on Universal Design for Learning.

June 19, 2017
Secondary Mathematics Professional Development Day
Brevard County
8:30 am - 11:30 am
Redefining Success: Supporting All Students to Reach Their Full Potential
Juli, Alex, and Jessica provide a unique perspective on how to support ALL students to learn. Juli, a university mathematics educator, provides the viewpoint of both the educator and the parent of children with special needs. Alex, a college freshman, shares her story related to both medical and educational struggles. Jessica, a high school junior, provides the position of both the sibling and student with a disability and connects her experiences to a new perspective on Universal Design for Learning.

June 12, 2017
Guest Speakers, North Penn School District Inservice Day
Lansdale, PA
8:00 AM - 3:30 PM
Supporting Instructional Shifts in Mathematics to Engage ALL Students in Higher Order Thinking
Juli Dixon shares five essential instructional shifts that emphasize the mathematical practices and the content they support. Participants engage with high cognitive demand tasks and how to support all students to engage with them during instruction. Participants enhance understanding of the shifts through the use of authentic videos as well as through Alex's perspectives on supporting learners who struggle.

June 6 & 7, 2017
Keynote Speakers
Schaumberg, IL
TBD
Redefining Success: Supporting All Students to Reach Their Full Potential
Juli, Alex, and Jessica provide a unique perspective on how to support ALL students to learn. Juli, a university mathematics educator, provides the viewpoint of both the educator and the parent of children with special needs. Alex, a college freshman, shares her story related to both medical and educational struggles. Jessica, a high school junior, provides the position of both the sibling and student with a disability and connects her experiences to a new perspective on Universal Design for Learning.

May 19, 2017
Keynote Speakers - Clark County School District
Las Vegas, NV
5:30 PM - 7:00 PM
Redefining Success: Supporting All Students to Reach Their Full Potential
Juli, Alex, and Jessica provide a unique perspective on how to support ALL students to learn. Juli, a university mathematics educator, provides the viewpoint of both the educator and the parent of children with special needs. Alex, a college freshman, shares her story related to both medical and educational struggles. Jessica, a high school junior, provides the position of both the sibling and student with a disability and connects her experiences to a new perspective on Universal Design for Learning.

April 4, 2017
Major Session Speakers - National Council of Supervisors of Mathematics Annual Conference
San Antonio, TX
2:15 PM - 3:15 PM
Redefining Success: Supporting All Students to Reach Their Full Potential
Juli, Alex, and Jessica provide a unique perspective on how to support ALL students to learn. Juli, a university mathematics educator, provides the viewpoint of both the educator and the parent of children with special needs. Alex, a college freshman, shares her story related to both medical and educational struggles. Jessica, a high school junior, provides the position of both the sibling and student with a disability and connects her experiences to a new perspective on Universal Design for Learning.

February 9, 2017
Invited Speaker - Speaking Series for Elementary Education Majors
Boca Raton, FL
TBD
Redefining Success: Supporting All Students to Reach Their Full Potential
Juli, Alex, and Jessica provide a unique perspective on how to support ALL students to learn. Juli, a university mathematics educator, provides the viewpoint of both the educator and the parent of children with special needs. Alex, a college freshman, shares her story related to both medical and educational struggles. Jessica, a high school junior, provides the position of both the sibling and student with a disability and connects her experiences to a new perspective on Universal Design for Learning.

December 7, 2016
Closing Keynote, Mathematics in a PLC at Work Summit - Solution Tree
Orlando, FL
9:30 AM - 11:00 AM
Redefining Success: Supporting All Students to Reach Their Full Potential
Juli, Alex, and Jessica provide a unique perspective on how to support ALL students to learn. Juli, a university mathematics educator, provides the viewpoint of both the educator and the parent of children with special needs. Alex, a college freshman, shares her story related to both medical and educational struggles. Jessica, a high school junior, provides the position of both the sibling and student with a disability and connects her experiences to a new perspective on Universal Design for Learning.

November 16, 2016
Keynote Speakers for the First Annual Innov8 Conference for NCTM
St. Louis, MO
5:30 PM - 7:00 PM
Redefining Success: Supporting All Students to Reach Their Full Potential
Juli, Alex, and Jessica provide a unique perspective on how to support ALL students to learn. Juli, a university mathematics educator, provides the viewpoint of both the educator and the parent of children with special needs. Alex, a college freshman, shares her story related to both medical and educational struggles. Jessica, a high school junior, provides the position of both the sibling and the subject and connects her experiences to a new perspective on Universal Design for Learning.

November 1, 2016
Regional Conference of the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics
Philadelphia, PA
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
A Stroke of Luck: A Student's Journey Relearning Mathematics
Students with special needs are often taught through key words and direct instruction. Learn from a student with special needs how key words and direct instruction were replaced with teaching for understanding in an inclusive environment. Explore extensions to these best practices to support increased mathematics achievement for all students.

October 28, 2016
Featured Presentation at the Regional Conference of the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics
Phoenix, Arizona
9:30 AM - 10:30 AM
A Stroke of Luck: A Student's Journey Relearning Mathematics
Students with special needs are often taught through key words and direct instruction. Learn from a student with special needs how key words and direct instruction were replaced with teaching for understanding in an inclusive environment. Explore extensions to these best practices to support increased mathematics achievement for all students.

October 25, 2016
Featured Speakers for the Disability Awareness Month
Kennedy Space Center, Cape Canaveral, FL
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Reaching Your Full Potential: Alex's Story
At age 12 Alex suffered a massive stroke during brain surgery. Now 18 and a college freshman at UCF, Alex shares her story and describes her amazing recovery. She provides a personal account of strategies for supporting rehabilitation after stroke. Juli, Alex's mother, provides the prospective of both an educator and caregiver in supporting those with disabilities to reach their full potential.

July 18, 2016
ISRD Summer Principals' Institute, NEFEC's Summer Leadership Conference
St. Augustine, FL
1:00 PM - 4:00PM
Six Essential Administrator Expectations for Effective Mathematics Instruction
Effective administrators are the instructional leaders in their schools. Successful leaders of mathematics teaching must know what to look for and promote in instruction. Explore six essential expectations for effective mathematics instruction that emphasize the mathematical practices and the content they support with the purpose of increasing student achievement for ALL learners.

June 17, 2016
First Annual College of Education and Human Performance Award Winners Brunch
University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL
9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Supporting ALL Students to Learn: A Stroke of Luck
The Dixons provide a unique perspective on supporting ALL students to learn. Juli, a professor at UCF provides the viewpoint of a parent of children with special needs. Alex, a college freshman shares her story related to educational struggles. Jessica, a high school junior provides the position of a high achieving student with disabilities.

June 3, 2016
Keynote for Charlotte County STEAM Conference
Port Charlotte, FL
8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
Giving ALL Students a Voice: Alex's Story
Students with special needs are often taught exclusively through direct instruction. Learn first-hand from a student with special needs how direct instruction was successfully replaced with teaching for understanding in a discourse-rich environment. Explore extensions to these best practices through a video exploration of important teaching shifts to support increased productive mathematical discourse for ALL students.

June 2, 2016
2016 Summer Institute for Higher Education
Daytona State College, Daytona Beach, FL
1:00 PM - 2:15 PM
Supporting ALL Students to Learn: A Stroke of Luck
The Dixons provide a unique perspective on supporting ALL students to learn. Juli, a professor at UCF provides the viewpoint of a parent of children with special needs. Alex, a college freshman shares her story related to educational struggles. Jessica, a high school junior provides the position of a high achieving student with disabilities.

May 5, 2016
Keynote Presentation for the Wisconsin Mathematics Council
Green Lake, Wisconsin
TBD
Giving ALL Students a Voice: Alex's Story
Students with special needs are often taught exclusively through direct instruction. Learn first-hand from a student with special needs how direct instruction was successfully replaced with teaching for understanding in a discourse-rich environment. Explore extensions to these best practices through a video exploration of important teaching shifts to support increased productive mathematical discourse for ALL students.

January 13, 2016
Brandeis Book Club Luncheon
Melbourne, Florida
TBD
A Stroke of Luck: Sharing Our Story
Learn from the authors and the main character of this true story how a massive stroke can be thought of as lucky. Alex provides firsthand look into her journey from normal child, through a stroke, and back again. Jessica shares her perspectives as the younger sister through her ordeal, and Mom - Juli - provides the mother's perspective of this harrowing experience.

December 9, 2015
East Tennessee Federal Programs Conference
Gatlinburg, Tennessee
TBD
Giving All Students a Voice: Alex's Story
Students with special needs are often taught exclusively through direct instruction. Learn first-hand from a student with special needs how direct instruction was successfully replaced with teaching for understanding in a discourse-rich environment. Explore extensions to these best practices through a video exploration of important teaching shifts to support increased productive mathematical discourse for ALL students.

November 17, 2015
University of Central Florida, College of Medicine
Orlando, Florida
12 Noon - 1:00 PM
Pediatric Interest Group: A Stroke of Luck
Pediatric Interest Group (PIG) has a mission to educate medical students about the science and art of pediatric medicine through speaker events, interactive medical opportunities, and community service. Involvement in PIG can help remind medical students about their passions in pursuing a career in medicine. Hearing the stories of physicians and patients alike inspire students, especially during the first two years of medical school when patient experience is limited. In this session, Alex Dixon will share her experiences from looking for answers regarding an unexplained illness to how she managed her recovery from a massive stroke at age 12. Jessica Dixon will share her perspective as Alex's younger sibling. The book, A Stroke of Luck, will be available for purchase following the talk.

November 7, 2015
CMC - South Annual Conference
Palm Springs, California
8:30 AM - 9:45 AM
"Key Words Help," "Inquiry Won't Work," and Other Myths
Students with special needs are often taught exclusively through key words and direct instruction. Learn first-hand from a student with special needs how teaching key words and direct instruction were successfully replaced with teaching for understanding in an inclusive environment. Alex Dixon was a normal, bright, healthy girl, when a sudden onset of a mysterious illness took over her life. Months of treatments failed to provide relief from acute pain and muscle spasm. Brain surgery stopped the spasms but caused a massive stroke. Alex had to relearn everything. Alex provides a personal account of strategies for supporting a student with special needs to learn mathematics with depth. Alex's mom, Juli Dixon, a professor of mathematics education, shares her perspective on what worked for teaching students with special needs.

October 17, 2015
Keynote at Transition to Life Summit
Fort Lauderdale, FL
10:00 AM
A Stroke of Luck: Strategies for Overcoming Barriers and Achieving Success
In this motivational session, Alex shares how her drive combined with high expectations from those surrounding her allowed her to beat the odds and become a productive citizen. Jessica provides the too often overlooked sibling’s perspective on life in a family supporting a child with special needs, and Juli offers suggestions for parents to help navigate to a successful outcome.

October 13, 2015
The Riall Lecture, Holloway Hall Auditorium, Salisbury University
Salisbury, Maryland
7:30 PM
Giving ALL Students a Voice: Alex's Story
Students with special needs are often taught exclusively through direct instruction. Learn first-hand from a student with special needs how direct instruction was successfully replaced with teaching for understanding in a discourse-rich environment. Explore extensions to these best practices through a video exploration of important teaching shifts to support increased productive mathematical discourse for ALL students.

October 2, 2015
Keynote at Florida Council for Exceptional Children. Hilton Double Tree
Orlando, Florida
9:30 AM - 10:45 AM
A Stroke of Luck: Strategies for Overcoming Barriers and Achieving Success
In this motivational session, Alex shares how her drive combined with high expectations from those surrounding her allowed her to beat the odds and become a productive citizen. Jessica provides the too often overlooked sibling’s perspective on life in a family supporting a child with special needs, and Juli offers suggestions for parents to help navigate to a successful outcome.

September 15, 2015
Administrators’ Management Meeting, Renaissance Vinoy Hotel
St. Petersburg
1:15 PM - 2:00 PM
A Stroke of Luck: Strategies for Overcoming Barriers and Achieving Success
Alex and Juli will share strategies they used at home as well as in school to support Alex and encourage her to reach her full potential. This presentation is both motivational as well as purposeful.

September 2, 2015
Faculty Meeting, Hagerty High School
Oviedo, Florida
2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
Through My Eyes: Supporting Students with Special Needs
In this motivational session, Alex shares how her drive combined with high expectations from those surrounding her allowed her to beat the odds and prepare to graduate with distinction. She discusses strategies that were successful for her and provides suggestions for supporting others to have the same success. All who participate will find themselves reflecting on how to live their best lives while supporting others who might need their support to do so as well.

August 26, 2015
Faculty Meeting, Oviedo High School
Oviedo, Florida
1:30 PM - 2:30 PM
Through My Eyes: Supporting Students with Special Needs
In this motivational session, Alex shares how her drive combined with high expectations from those surrounding her allowed her to beat the odds and prepare to graduate with distinction. She discusses strategies that were successful for her and provides suggestions for supporting others to have the same success. All who participate will find themselves reflecting on how to live their best lives while supporting others who might need their support to do so as well.

August 10, 2015
Faculty Development Day, Milwee Middle School
Longwood, Florida
10:00 AM - 10:30 AM
Through My Eyes: Supporting Students with Special Needs
In this motivational session, Alex shares how her drive combined with high expectations from those surrounding her allowed her to beat the odds and prepare to graduate with distinction. She discusses strategies that were successful for her and provides suggestions for supporting others to have the same success. All who participate will find themselves reflecting on how to live their best lives while supporting others who might need their support to do so as well.

August 10, 2015
Faculty Development Day, Rock Lake Middle School
Longwood, Florida
9:00 AM - 9:30 AM
Through My Eyes: Supporting Students with Special Needs
In this motivational session, Alex shares how her drive combined with high expectations from those surrounding her allowed her to beat the odds and prepare to graduate with distinction. She discusses strategies that were successful for her and provides suggestions for supporting others to have the same success. All who participate will find themselves reflecting on how to live their best lives while supporting others who might need their support to do so as well.

August 7, 2015
Seminole County Public Schools Leadership Conference, Hagerty High School
Oviedo, Florida
8:30 AM - 9:00 AM
Through My Eyes: Supporting Students with Special Needs
In this motivational session, Alex shares how her drive combined with high expectations from those surrounding her allowed her to beat the odds and prepare to graduate with distinction. She discusses strategies that were successful for her and provides suggestions for supporting others to have the same success. All who participate will find themselves reflecting on how to live their best lives while supporting others who might need their support to do so as well.

August 4 & 5, 2015
2015 Math Summit
Cary, North Carolina
TBD
Giving ALL Students a Voice: Alex's Story
Students with special needs are often taught exclusively through direct instruction. Learn first-hand from a student with special needs how direct instruction was successfully replaced with teaching for understanding in a discourse-rich environment. Explore extensions to these best practices through a video exploration of important teaching shifts to support increased productive mathematical discourse for ALL students.

June 3, 2015
Imagine Weston Charter School
Weston, FL
1:30 PM - 2:15 PM
A Vision for Success
Alex Dixon shares her story of recovering from a massive stroke. She provides suggestions for living your best life. Sister, Jessica Dixon, discusses strategies for being successful and supporting others to do the same.

April 17, 2015
National Council of Teachers of Mathematics - Featured Presentation
Boston, MA
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
Changing the World for Students with Special Needs
Alex says, “it took a stroke and a coma but now I like math!” Students with special needs are often taught exclusively through key words and direct instruction. Alex, who has special needs, and her mother Juli Dixon share how they successfully replaced key words and direct instruction with teaching for understanding in an inclusive setting.

March 31, 2015
Phi Alpha Social Work Honor Society
University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida
6:30 PM
A Stroke of Luck: A Family's Story
Alex, Jessica, and Juli share Alex's story and how it is truly the story of an entire family. Critical illness, in this case, and illness that led to a stroke and disability, impact every member of the family. Alex, Jessica and Juli will provide suggestions for how social workers can become part of a supportive village for the entire family.

March 31, 2015
Lansing Island Book Club
Indian Harbor Beach, FL
12:30 PM - 2:00 PM
A Stroke of Luck: Sharing Our Story
Learn from the authors and the main character of this true story how a massive stroke can be thought of as lucky. Alex provides firsthand look into her journey from normal child, through a stroke, and back again. Jessica shares her perspectives as the younger sister through her ordeal, and Mom - Juli - provides the mother's perspective of this harrowing experience.

March 6, 2015
Professional Development Schools National Conference - Keynote
Atlanta, Georgia
8:00 AM - 9:30 AM
"Key Words Help," "Inquiry Won't Work," and Other Myths
“It took a stroke and a coma but now I like math!” Alex Dixon Students with special needs are often taught exclusively through key words and direct instruction. Learn first-hand from a student with special needs how key words and direct instruction were successfully replaced with teaching for understanding in an inclusive environment.

March 2, 2015
University of Central Florida, College of Medicine
Orlando, Florida
12:00 noon - 1:00 PM
Narrative Medicine: A Stroke of Luck
Narrative medicine is a student interest group focused on bringing the human angle of medicine to the medical school experience. This is done through storytelling – sharing experiences of peers, patients, and clinicians through the written word, live talks, and visual media. Past events include film screenings and discussions, storytelling events with physicians and patients, and book readings. These casual meetings serve as a break from the medical school grind and a reminder of why the goal of becoming doctors. In this session, Alex Dixon will share her experiences from looking for answers regarding an unexplained illness to how she managed her recovery from a massive stroke. Jessica Dixon will share her perspective as Alex's younger sibling. The book, A Stroke of Luck, will be available for purchase following the talk.

February 27, 2015
Research Council on Mathematics Learning - Wilson Lecture
Las Vegas, Nevada
5:30 PM - 6:30 PM
"Key Words Help," "Inquiry Won't Work," and Other Myths
Students with special needs are often taught key words and through direct instruction exclusively. Learn first hand why Alex Dixon - a student with special needs - says, "it took a stroke and a coma but now I like math!" Alex and her mother, Juli Dixon, describe how teaching key words and direct instruction were replaced with teaching for understanding in an inclusive environment.

Saturday, February 21, 2015
PULSE (Parents United with Leaders, Students, and Educators) Conference - Keynote
University High School, Orlando, Florida
8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
Keynote
Alex and Juli will share strategies they used at home as well as in school to support Alex and encourage her to reach her full potential. This presentation is both motivational as well as purposeful. You will be glad you got up early to attend!

January 27, 2015
University of Central Florida, College of Health and Public Affairs
Orlando, Florida
10:30 AM - 12:00 Noon
A Stroke of Luck: A Family's Story
Alex, Jessica, and Juli share Alex's story and how it impacts each member of the family. They provide suggestions for how social workers can become part of a supportive village.

January 21, 2015
University of Central Florida, Department of Writing and Rhetoric
Orlando, Florida
12:30 PM - 1:20 PM
Changing the World: A Three-Pronged Approach
Alex, Jessica, and Juli share their approach for writing for social change. They share how their book, A Stroke of Luck, becomes the tool; their blog becomes the link; and their talks provide the contact to promote the change they want to see in the world.

November 13, 2014
University of Miami - School of Education and Human Development
Coral Gables, Florida
5:00 PM - 6:00 PM
"Key Words Help," "Inquiry Won't Work," and Other Myths
Students with special needs are often taught key words and through direct instruction exclusively. Learn first hand why Alex Dixon - a student with special needs - says, "it took a stroke and a coma but now I like math!" Alex and her mother, Juli Dixon, describe how teaching key words and direct instruction were replaced with teaching for understanding in an inclusive environment.

October 29, 2014
NCCTM 44th Annual State Math Conference - Fall Leadership Seminar - Keynote
Greensboro, NC
1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
"Key Words Help," "Inquiry Won't Work," and Other Myths: A Case Study Approach to Best Practices
“It took a stroke and a coma but now I like math!” - Alex Dixon Students with special needs are often taught exclusively through key words and direct instruction. Learn first-hand from a student with special needs how teaching key words and direct instruction were successfully replaced with teaching for understanding in an inclusive environment. Explore extensions to these best practices through a video exploration of important teachers shifts to support increased mathematics achievement for all students.

October 10, 2014
College of Education and Human Performance, University of Central Florida
Orlando, FL
4:30 - 5:30 PM
"Key Words Help," "Inquiry Won't Work," and Other Myths
Students with special needs are often taught key words and through direct instruction exclusively. Learn first hand why Alex Dixon - a student with special needs - says, "it took a stroke and a coma but now I like math!" Alex and her mother, Juli Dixon, describe how teaching key words and direct instruction were replaced with teaching for understanding in an inclusive environment.

August 15, 2014
Anchorage School District
Anchorage, Alaska
TBD
"Key Words Help," "Inquiry Won't Work," and Other Myths
Students with special needs are often taught key words and through direct instruction exclusively. Learn first hand why Alex Dixon - a student with special needs - says, "it took a stroke and a coma but now I like math!" Alex and her mother, Juli Dixon, describe how teaching key words and direct instruction were replaced with teaching for understanding in an inclusive environment.

July 12, 2014
The Scott Coopersmith 5th Annual Stroke Awareness Gala
Lake Mary, Florida
6:00 PM - 11:00 PM
A Stroke of Luck: A Girl's Second Chance at Life
At age 12 Alex suffered a massive stroke during brain surgery. Now 16, Alex shares her story and describes her amazing recovery. She provides a personal account of strategies for supporting rehabilitation after stroke.

May 20, 2014
Oviedo - Winter Springs Optimist Club
Oviedo, Florida
6:30 PM
A Stroke of Luck: A Family's Story
Alex shares her story of survival along with strategies for supporting people with special needs.

April 10, 2014
Annual Meeting of the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, Great Hall B/C Convention Center
New Orleans, LA
9:30 AM - 10:30 AM
"Key Words Help," "Inquiry Won't Work," and Other Myths
Students with special needs are often taught key words and through direct instruction exclusively. Learn first hand why a student with special needs says, “it took a stroke and a coma but now I like math!” and how key word and direct instruction were successfully replaced with teaching for understanding and inquiry in an inclusive environment. This session is co-presented by Alex and Juli Dixon.

March 19, 2014
Wine, Women, and Wednesday Luncheon
Eau Gallie Yacht Club - Indian Harbour Beach, FL
11:30 AM - 1:00 PM
A Stroke of Luck: A Girl's Second Chance at Life
Alex will share her remarkable story of beating the odds to reclaim her life after a serious illness and tragic accident. Jessica will uncover amazing, candid insights from the point of view of the invisible sibling. Join us for an afternoon that is sure to elicit awe and inspiration.

March 11, 2014
HPA I, Room 110, University of Central Florida
Orlando, FL
12 Noon -1:30 PM
Personal Perspectives on Social Work
Alex and Jessica will guest lecture in the Health Settings course of the Social Work Program. They will provide their first-hand accounts and perspectives on how best to support persons with disabilities and their caregivers in critical situations.

February 24, 2014
Lewis Auditorium, Room 102, College of Medicine, University of Central Florida
Orlando, FL
12 Noon - 1:00 PM
Narrative Medicine: A Stroke of Luck
Narrative medicine is a student interest group focused on bringing the human angle of medicine to the medical school experience. This is done through storytelling – sharing experiences of peers, patients, and clinicians through the written word, live talks, and visual media. Some of our past events include film screenings and discussions, storytelling events with physicians and patients, and book readings. Our casual meetings serve as a break from the medical school grind and remind us why we want to be doctors. In this session, Alex Dixon will share her experiences from looking for answers regarding an unexplained illness to how she managed her recovery from a massive stroke. Jessica Dixon will share her perspective as Alex's younger sibling.

January 30, 2014
Center for Success of Women Faculty, University of Central Florida
Orlando, FL
2:00 - 3:00 PM
Telling (Y)Our Story
Statistics are one thing, but it's been proven that there is tremendous power in story. In this session, university faculty will tell our stories, which led to the series of workshops on elder care and caring for a family member with a disability. Whether our stories encourage those in similar circumstances or enlighten those who have yet to travel this road, we hope to bring greater attention to these issues on a University-wide level. A suggested reading list of helpful resources will be provided. See http://womenfaculty.afia.ucf.edu/events/ for more information.

November 17, 2013
Art and Writing Showcase at the Civic Center in Cocoa Village
Cocoa, FL
4:30 - 5:00 PM
A Stroke of Luck: A Village of Support
During this engaging featured presentation Alex will share her heartbreaking, heartfelt, and hopeful story that will take you on a journey through illness, stroke, and recovery. Alex and her family will discuss how it takes a village to help a sick child and how that village can span generations and countries. Of particular interest is how her current physical/occupational therapy is conducted virtually with a therapist in Israel. The new book, "A Stroke of Luck: A Girl's Second Chance at Life" will be available for purchase at the event.

October 12, 2013
Annual Meeting of the Southeast Regional Association of Teacher Educators
Sarasota, FL
9:00 - 9:50
Waiting on the World to Change: A Student with Special Needs Shares her Story and Suggestions for Change
High school student, Alex Dixon, shares her story of going from gifted to special needs. In addition to hearing her story, learn from a student's perspective suggestions on what k-12 educators can do to ensure a positive and rigorous learning environment for students with special needs. Andrea Walsh, Intervention/Inclusion Specialist, connects Alex's story to research and implications for classroom practices.

October 19, 2013
Annual Meeting of the Florida Council of Teachers of Mathematics
Orlando, FL
8:00 - 9:00
"Key Words Help," "Inquiry Won't Work," and Other Myths
Students with special needs are often taught key words and through direct instruction exclusively. Learn first hand why a student with special needs says, “it took a stroke and a coma but now I like math!” and how key word and direct instruction were successfully replaced with teaching for understanding and inquiry in an inclusive environment. This session is co-presented by Alex and Juli Dixon.

September 16, 2013
University of Central Florida
Orlando, FL
4:30 - 5:30
Waiting on the World to Change: A Student with Special Needs Shares her Story and Suggestions for Change
High school student, Alex Dixon, shares her story of going from gifted to special needs. In addition to hearing her story, learn from a student's perspective suggestions on what k-12 educators can do to ensure a positive and rigorous learning environment for students with special needs. Andrea Walsh, Intervention/Inclusion Specialist, connects Alex's story to research and implications for classroom practices.