Spelligent's founder is a nationally recognized educator, leader, and advocate for inclusive education, with deep expertise in transforming school systems to support diverse learners. Toni has extensive experience across all levels of education, from classroom teaching to school leadership and state-level coaching. Toni's career has been deeply rooted in Washington, D.C., where she worked as a teacher in DC Public Schools, a charter principal, and a district leader. She has also partnered with organizations such as the Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE) and the National Collaborative on Inclusive Principal Leadership to advance inclusive practices.

Toni is the founder of the Inclusive Schools Leadership Institute, where she has trained hundreds of leaders across the country to create equitable, inclusive educational environments. She is a sought-after speaker at national conferences, including SXSWEdu and the National Charter Schools Conference, and has been named a beacon in special education by the Center for Learner Equity. Toni’s work has also been recognized in Forbes, highlighting her impact on advancing equity and inclusion in education.

Her groundbreaking work, including her book Seven Principles for Building a Truly Inclusive School: A Call to Action for K-12 Leaders, focuses on dismantling exclusionary practices and fostering anti-ableist, culturally responsive approaches in schools. Toni’s current initiatives include a partnership with KIPP Northern California, where she works to transform general education systems to improve outcomes for students with disabilities. Drawing from equity literacy and transformative leadership frameworks, her work promotes systemic change to ensure schools recognize and support learner variability and neurodiversity. 

Toni’s dedication to advancing inclusive education has made her a trusted thought leader, providing both practical and theoretical insights to help educators and decision-makers create schools where every student thrives.

Fun Facts: Toni is a Wheel of Fortune champion and had a cameo in Beyonce's film Renaissance.