Jamilyn Cole

Understanding Neurodiversity.
Celebrating Strengths.
Creating Environments Where People Thrive.

Speaker • Neurodivergent Educator • TrainerHelping educators, families, schools, and organizations move from awareness to action through practical, neuroaffirming strategies that support learning, belonging, and growth.I was the student we were worried about. Now I help others see what's possible.I spent 16 years receiving special education services while navigating dyslexia, dyscalculia, ADHD, executive functioning challenges, and other learning differences—long before I had language for those experiences.Today, I combine lived experience and 25 years of professional expertise to help educators, families, schools, and organizations understand neurodiversity differently and translate that understanding into meaningful action."Jamilyn shared the struggles, the interventions, and the tools she used to be successful. Everyone left with ideas that could be applied the very next day."— Melody Tartera, Upper School Learning Specialist

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About

I entered special education services at age four and remained in special education through high school, navigating speech therapy, physical therapy, academic support, executive functioning challenges, and learning differences that were often misunderstood. For many years, I believed those struggles reflected my limitations.My experiences with accommodations and support continued through college and into the workplace. Like many neurodivergent adults, I continued to navigate organization, executive functioning demands, and environments that were not always designed with neurodiversity in mind, shaping my understanding of what meaningful inclusion looks like across the lifespan.As an adult, I've spent 25 years supporting learning and development across museums, youth programs, special education, Montessori and independent schools, and employment support services. My experience includes more than a decade as a special education teacher, as well as work as a Learning Specialist, instructional coach, and teacher trainer.Today, I understand those experiences through the lenses of neurodiversity, executive functioning, and the environments that shape learning, behavior, and belonging. That perspective informs my speaking, training, and educational practice.My work is grounded in both lived experience and professional preparation, including an M.A. from Tufts University, a B.A. from Hollins University, Montessori Elementary I and II certifications, Orton-Gillingham training, trauma-informed practice, autism certifications, and state licensure in General Education (K–8) and Special Education (K–12).Based in Memphis, I enjoy knitting, spending time with my wife, and staying connected to the community I call home.

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Work

I help educators, schools, and organizations move from awareness to action.Through keynotes, professional learning, and consulting, I translate neurodiversity, executive functioning, and inclusion into practical strategies people can use immediately.My work challenges common assumptions about learning, behavior, productivity, and support while helping audiences recognize strengths, remove barriers, and create environments where people can thrive.When we stop asking, "What's wrong with this person?" and start asking, "What support would help this person succeed?" everything changes.SIGNATURE TOPICSWired for Learning: What My Neurodivergent Journey Taught Me About TeachingExecutive Function Is Not a Character TraitWhen We Change the Environment, Everything ChangesThriving as Neurodivergent EducatorsNeuroinclusive Montessori for Neurodivergent ChildrenAdditional sessions are available on executive functioning, dyslexia, dysgraphia, AI tools for learning, visual supports, Montessori education, and neuroinclusive practices.Available in person or virtually.

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