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Training and Technical Assistance Center (TTAC)
Providing professional learning, resources, and technical assistance to educators

Inclusion/High-Leverage Practices

TTAC at GMU supports inclusive practices by working with school divisions in Region 4 to build sustainability and scale up High-Leverage Practices (HLPs), co-teaching strategies, and family engagement through collaboration with Region 4 schools and divisions, professional learning sessions, resources and supports.  To support Virginia’s Statewide Inclusion Action Plan and improve co-teaching throughout Virginia, TTAC at GMU collaborates with co-teaching demonstration teams, who serve as exemplar co-teaching teams that model effective practices in Region 4. 

At TTAC at GMU, we champion inclusive practices by partnering with schools and divisions across Region 4 to strengthen and sustain high-quality instruction for all students. We support school divisions in the development, implementation, and evaluation of their Inclusive Action Plans and help scale up High-Leverage Practices (HLPs), effective co-teaching models, and meaningful family engagement. Through professional learning, customized resources, and ongoing collaboration, we work alongside educators to build capacity and drive lasting change. In alignment with Virginia’s Statewide Inclusive Action Plan, we also collaborate with co-teaching demonstration sites—exemplar teams that bring inclusive instruction to life and inspire progress across the region. 

VDOE’s Excellence in Co-Teaching Initiative 

As part of Virginia’s Excellence in Co-Teaching Initiative, demonstration sites across the Commonwealth provide opportunities for co-teaching teams and school/district administrators to observe high-quality co-taught instruction in inclusive settings. Visitors have the opportunity to observe model lessons, followed by scheduled time to engage in discussion with the site’s co-teaching team and school administrator regarding implementation practices, instructional planning, and factors that support successful co-teaching partnerships.  
Region 4 Demonstration Site: Emerald Hill Elementary School (Culpeper County, Grade 4)

2025-2026 Excellence in Co-Teaching Demonstration Sites (Statewide) 
To request a visit to a demonstration site, please complete the following form: Demonstration Site Visitation Request Form or contact Melissa Gunter. 
 

High Leverage Practices (HLPs) 

Researchers from the CEEDAR Center and Council for Exceptional Children identified 22 research-based High Leverage Practices, which are foundational teaching practices, proven effective for all students. HLPs can be woven into core instruction in the general education setting to intentionally design, deliver, and assess instruction that leads to equitable learning outcomes for all students, including students with disabilities. HLPs are research-based instructional practices that occur in any content area; practices that occur with high frequency in any learning environment; practices that have component parts so that teachers can implement them with fidelity; practices that improve student outcomes. HLPs focus on four major areas of practice: collaboration, assessment, social/emotional/behavioral, and instructional. 
High Leverage Practices for Students with Disabilities 
Council for Exceptional Children's Introduction to HLPs Video  
 

HLP Self-Paced Professional Learning Sessions 

Expand your knowledge about research-based High Leverage Practices (HLPs) and earn certificates of participation. Professional learning sessions are located on Virtual Virginia. 

 

Customize Professional Learning 

TTAC at GMU offers professional learning tailored to meet the specific goals of your school or division. We partner with teams to design and deliver learning experiences that build capacity in inclusive practices, co-teaching, and High-Leverage Practices (HLPs). Whether you're just getting started or deepening existing efforts, we can help you align your work with division priorities and support sustainable change. 
 Sample topics include: 

  • HLP 7: Setting the Stage for Learning – Creating Consistent, Organized, and Respectful Environments 
  • HLP 1: Collaboration 101 – Building Strong Professional Partnerships 
  • HLPs 16 & 22: Explicit Instruction and Effective Teacher Feedback 
  • HLP 17: Using Flexible Grouping to Differentiate Instruction 
  • HLP 18: Active Engagement Strategies to Maximize Student Participation 
  • Leadership Focus: Strategies for School Leaders and Instructional Coaches to Support Teachers and Improve Retention  

Let us help you design professional learning that makes an impact. 

Contact Melissa Gunter to learn more or click here to request customized services. 

Focus Area Coordinators

  • Melissa Gunter Coordinator, Inclusion/High-Leverage Practices; Math
    MS, Longwood University
  • Catherine Martin Coordinator, Transition; Inclusion/High-Leverage Practices
    PhD, George Mason University