Dr. Golnar Abedin: A Visionary in Inclusive Education

Dr. Abedin is a dedicated advocate and visionary leader in the field of inclusive education, bringing over 25 years of rich experience to her work. With a heartfelt commitment to meeting the unique needs of all students, Dr. Abedin specializes in supporting those with diverse cultural, developmental, and learning profiles, inspiring them to reach their fullest potential.

In 2011, she founded the Creative Minds International (CMI) program, which is rooted in research and focused on best practices in inclusive education. As the founder and leader of CMI Public Charter School from 2012 to 2019, Dr. Abedin played a pivotal role in nurturing a vibrant learning community that served over 550 students from preschool through eighth grade. Under her guidance, CMI blossomed into a beloved institution known for its innovative and holistic approach to education, ensuring that every student’s social, emotional, and academic needs were met in an inclusive environment.

Her remarkable leadership earned CMI the prestigious TASH Inclusive Education Award and recognition as the first public school accredited in the International Primary Curriculum (IPC). The school consistently stood out among charter schools for fostering positive learning experiences, where special education students and students of color thrived and excelled academically compared to their peers in Washington D.C.

Today, Dr. Abedin serves as Lead Clinical Faculty in Special Education at American University’s City Teaching Alliance Master's program, where she mentors the next generation of educators. Through her work with Inclusive Education Consulting (IEC), she warmly invites parents, school leaders, and teachers to join her in the journey of implementing holistic and innovative inclusive practices, including Universal Design for Learning (UDL). Dr. Abedin is passionate about equipping families with the tools and strategies they need to create supportive and enriching learning experiences for their children.

Dr. Abedin believes that every child deserves an education that honors their unique strengths and experiences. She is dedicated to actively engaging in research and collaborating with like-minded organizations to promote high-quality, inclusive educational opportunities for neurodiverse children and youth. If you’re a parent seeking guidance or support, you’re not alone – Dr. Abedin is here to partner with you on this important journey, helping to ensure that your child not only thrives but also realizes their fullest potential.

Memberships and Collaboration:

American Educational Research Association (AERA)

Comparative and International Education Society (CIES)

Global Campaign for Education (GCE), Inclusive Education and Early Childhood Care and Education Community of Practice

Inclusive Education Initiative, World Bank

The University of Maryland International Education Policy Alumni Group

The DC Special Education Cooperative