The Vanderbilt Kennedy Center, The Arc Tennessee, and Able Voices are in search of volunteer interview subjects for the next issue of Kindred Stories of Disability. The topic of the 2025 issue is “Behavior Supports and Practices in Tennessee Schools.” These shared stories and experiences will educate Tennessee legislators and policymakers about the barriers that students with disabilities and teachers face as they work to meet the needs of students in Tennessee schools.
Organizers want to hear from students and parents who have lived experience with behavioral supports and practices in Tennessee schools and the impact they have had on the student and caregivers/family. We also want to hear from educators who have experienced and addressed challenging behaviors in the classroom.
Interviews are being sought with:
Current and former students with disabilities
Parents and caregivers of students with disabilities
Teachers and school administrators
Participation commitment includes:
A one-hour conversation with a Vanderbilt student over Zoom, with questions shared in advance — Interviewees may choose to remain anonymous
Optional photo session to give young photographers with disabilities experience using photography for advocacy — may be anonymous
Final review of your story, written by the student
Having your story and photos printed and shared with legislators and policymakers during Tennessee Disability Day on the Hill.
Interested in participating? Please fill out the participant intake form here. Check out the Kindred Stories flyer for full details.
