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Bryson Tarbet Champions Accessibility in Music Education for Sensory Processing Disorder and ADHD Awareness Month

Oct 17, 2024

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:
Bryson Tarbet
That Music Teacher, LLC
614-504-3994
hello@thatmusicteacher.com
www.thatmusicteacher.com


Bryson Tarbet Champions Accessibility in Music Education for Sensory Processing Disorder and ADHD Awareness Month

Columbus, OH – October 17, 2024 – In recognition of Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) Awareness Month and ADHD Awareness Month, Bryson Tarbet, founder of That Music Teacher, LLC, is amplifying his message of accessibility in the music classroom through specialized professional development for music teachers. As an individual with ADHD and Sensory Processing Disorder, Tarbet uses his platform to help educators create inclusive, accessible classrooms that support all students, including those with neurodiverse needs.

A former PreK-6 general music teacher, Tarbet spent a transformative year as part of an intervention team, where he discovered his passion for working with students with disabilities. His personal experiences with ADHD and SPD gave him firsthand insight into how sensory and emotional dysregulation impact learning, leading him to advocate for full participation and engagement for all students—not just those with formal diagnoses.

"Accessibility goes beyond just being physically present in the classroom," Tarbet explains. "It’s about ensuring that every student can engage meaningfully in the learning process, whether that means providing sensory-friendly spaces, flexible seating, or differentiated instruction."

A Leader in Inclusive Music Education

As the founder of That Music Teacher, LLC, Tarbet provides professional development resources for music educators across the country. His Elementary Music Summit® and Middle School Music Summit™ offer content-specific training for general music teachers, helping them build inclusive, engaging learning environments. He also hosts That Music Podcast, where he shares practical strategies for supporting neurodiverse students.

To guide teachers in making their classrooms more accessible, Tarbet developed the Five Domains of Accessibility:

  • Sensory
  • Language
  • Physical
  • Cognitive
  • Social/Emotional

This framework helps educators identify and remove barriers that prevent students from fully engaging in the classroom.

"By recognizing the sensory and emotional needs of students with ADHD and SPD, teachers can create environments where every student has the opportunity to succeed," Tarbet emphasizes. "It’s not just about meeting a diagnosis—it's about making learning accessible for everyone."

Encouraging Accessibility in the Music Classroom

During Sensory Processing Disorder and ADHD Awareness Month, Tarbet encourages educators to take small but meaningful steps toward improving accessibility in their classrooms. These steps include:

  • Creating sensory-friendly spaces
  • Offering visual supports
  • Using tools like noise-canceling headphones or fidget tools to support students’ needs

Tarbet’s mission is to ensure that no student feels left behind due to classroom barriers. He believes that improving accessibility for students with ADHD, SPD, and other neurodiverse needs benefits all learners and enhances engagement and success for everyone.

Learn More or Book a Workshop

For more information about Bryson Tarbet’s professional development offerings or to book him for a workshop or podcast interview, visit www.thatmusicteacher.com or contact hello@thatmusicteacher.com.

About Bryson Tarbet

Bryson Tarbet is the founder of That Music Teacher, LLC, a company dedicated to helping music educators create accessible, inclusive learning environments. Diagnosed with ADHD as a child and later recognizing his Sensory Processing Disorder, Bryson is passionate about using his personal experiences to advocate for all students. He is the host of That Music Podcast and the creator of the Elementary Music Summit® and Middle School Music Summit™, which provide targeted professional development for general music teachers.