ABOUT INCLUSIVE LEADERSHIP LAB

At just 21 years old, I became a mother to a child with Down syndrome—a life-changing that sparked my passion for special education.

My journey began as a K–12 adaptive special education teacher, where I saw the transformative power of inclusive classrooms. Determined to expand my impact, I took on roles as a School Improvement Specialist and Director of Special Education, providing technical assistance and professional development across the state of Kansas. I’ve had the honor of serving as a keynote speaker, and I also directed a statewide project focused on teacher recruitment and retention—experiences that solidified my commitment to empowering and caring for educators at every level.

Today, my son is an adult forging his own path in higher education, a journey that renews my conviction every day: educators need ongoing support, resources, and affirmation to create inclusive environments where all students thrive. Reflecting on my own experiences—both in the classroom and in leadership positions—I recognized the need for the very tools I once wished for, tools that would amplify teachers’ voices, enhance their impact, and strengthen their ability to serve diverse learners.

I’ve always believed that leadership is an action, not a title. Whether you’re a teacher, an administrator, or a specialist, creating inclusive schools requires everyone’s commitment. In the most effective environments, people learn and grow together, each with a voice, agency, and the shared goal of making education truly equitable.

This vision led me to found The Inclusive Leadership Lab, a professional learning space designed to provide educators with the resources, collaboration opportunities, and evidence-based strategies they need. By developing the supports I once sought, I aim to help educators at all levels foster inclusive classrooms, elevate their practice, and ultimately improve outcomes for every student.

~ Dr. Nikki Heiman