Thinking Out Loud Episode 18
Seeing the Whole Student: How JCHS Normalizes Neurodiversity with Ellen Castillo, co-Dean of Learning Support
Episode launch date: February 3, 2026
What if the most important thing school taught you was how your brain works? In this episode of Thinking Out Loud, we sit down with Ellen Castillo, Co-Dean of Learning Support at JCHS, to talk about how a neurodivergent-affirming school culture helps students feel comfortable talking about how they learn. Ms. Castillo shares how JCHS normalizes neurodiversity through open conversations, student panels, and relationships built on trust—so no one feels like they have to hide who they are. We’ll break down what it really looks like to support different kinds of learners, including twice-exceptional students, by focusing on strengths instead of “what’s wrong.” Ms. Castillo explains how understanding your learning style and advocating for yourself in high school can set you up for life well beyond the classroom.
