Together in Education (TiE)

Together in Education (TiE) is a core initiative of the Down Syndrome Association of Greater Charlotte (DSAGC) designed to strengthen partnerships between families, educators, schools, community organizations, and employers to support individuals with Down syndrome across the lifespan.

TiE works from a simple but powerful belief:
When families, schools, and communities work together, students thrive.

Our Approach

TiE is rooted in collaboration, relationship-building, and shared learning. We partner with public, private, parochial, and homeschool communities to better understand the real-world challenges educators and families face—and to provide practical, strengths-based solutions that promote inclusion and success.

We believe:

• Positive outreach and partnership lead to meaningful outcomes

• Schools and families are strongest when they learn from one another

• None of us alone is as smart as all of us together

Supporting Educators & Schools

TiE equips educators, administrators, and school staff with the tools and confidence needed to support students with Down syndrome in inclusive and effective ways.

Support includes:

• Consultation and technical assistance

• Evidence-based resources and best practices

• Professional development and training

• Ongoing partnership and problem-solving support

School groups interested in a Professional Development Training about supporting students with Down syndrome, please complete this form: https://dsagreatercharlotte.dm.networkforgood.com/forms/together-in-education-interest-form

Educators Symposium

The National Down Syndrome Congress hosts an annual Educators Symposium virtually to bring together local and national experts to provide practical, applicable learning. Sessions focus on topics such as:

• Literacy, reading comprehension, and writing strategies

• Inclusive classroom practices and co-teaching models

• IEP development focused on meaningful student outcomes

• Social-emotional learning and wellness in the classroom

• Movement, mindfulness, and adaptive strategies

Supporting Families

TiE also supports families as they navigate their child’s educational journey—from early childhood through adulthood.

Family support includes:

• Educational resources and referrals

• IEP coaching and advocacy support

• Workshops offered both virtually and in person

Workshop topics may include:

• Navigating the IEP process

• Understanding and supporting challenging behaviors

• Toilet training and daily living skills

• Caring for the caregiver and family wellness

• Transition planning and future-focused goals

Creating Communities for All

Through TiE, DSAGC partners with community organizations—including churches, libraries, YMCAs, and local agencies—to promote understanding, acceptance, and inclusive practices beyond the classroom.

Community partners may request:

• Staff training and education

• Consultation on inclusive programming

• Technical assistance to strengthen accessibility and participation

Building Better Businesses Through Inclusion

TiE extends into the workforce by helping employers understand the value of inclusive hiring and the strengths individuals with Down syndrome bring to the workplace.

We support businesses by offering opportunities to:

• Participate in professional development (Down Syndrome 101, Workplace Accommodations)

• Host meet-and-greets with job seekers with Down syndrome

• Provide volunteer or job shadowing opportunities

• Explore inclusive employment pathways and partnerships

Inclusive employment benefits both job seekers and employers, creating stronger, more connected communities.

Learn More or Get Involved

To learn more about Together in Education or to explore partnership opportunities, contact:

Victoria Coles, Program & Community Outreach Director
704-536-2163
victoria.coles@dsa-gc.org