Each year, OCALICON features keynote speakers whose research and real life experiences reaffirm our work, challenge our conventions, and inspire us to think differently about what is possible. These internationally recognized leaders help jump start our hearts and minds with thought-provoking, intriguing, and stimulating content. We are honored to have them join us.
Interested in seeing a list of previous keynotes? Skim the list and see how many names you recognize!
Tuesday, November 17, 2026 | 12:30 - 1:30 pm EST
What does it take to build communities where individuals with autism and their families are supported not only in school, but throughout a lifetime? Drawing from his family’s journey and stories shared through The Autism Puzzle, Jerod Smalley will explore the connections among education, family, and community that help individuals with autism thrive. Through compelling stories and real-world perspectives, participants will consider how strong partnerships, high expectations, and connected supports can foster independence, meaningful participation, and a true sense of belonging across the lifespan.
Jerod Smalley is co-anchor of First at 4 and NBC4 at 5, joining NBC4 in 2004 and serving as Sports Director from 2006-2023. A seven-time Ohio AP/Ohio SPJ Best Anchor honoree, he has covered the Rio Olympics, three Super Bowls, four NBA Finals, three World Series and multiple Ohio State national championship appearances. Smalley has earned multiple regional Emmy Awards, including four for The Autism Puzzle. A Marshall University magna cum laude graduate and 2025 Journalism Hall of Fame inductee, he is an advocate for autism awareness, serves with Autism Speaks Columbus, supports the American Heart Association and serves on OCALI’s board.
Friday, November 20, 2026 | 12:30 - 1:30 pm EST
This session explores how schools can improve outcomes for students with disabilities, including autism, sensory disabilities, and low-incidence disabilities, through access to high-quality instruction, participation in the general education curriculum, and specially designed supports. Participants will examine Ohio’s Integrated MTSS Framework as a model for aligning general and special education to foster belonging, inclusion, academic growth, independence, and post-school success. Examples from high-performing schools will highlight practices linked to strong reading and mathematics outcomes.
Tessie Rose Bailey, Ph.D., is Director of the PROGRESS Center and an advisor to the MTSS Center, Lead IDEA Center, and National Center on Intensive Interventions at AIR. She supports states, districts, and schools in implementing special education requirements, special education law, and multi-tiered systems of support. Dr. Bailey has led hundreds of workshops and presentations focused on specially designed instruction, IEPs, and improving outcomes for students with disabilities. She co-edited What Is Necessary for Special Education to Work and has developed widely used resources for educators.