As a son of two Blind parents, diversity, equity, and inclusion are foundational to Leyton’s work. His research explores how to support teachers to support students in diverse and inclusive classrooms and schools. Leyton collaborates with communities to push back on educational approaches that operate from deficit-based models and instead draws on place-conscious, culturally responsive practices.

Leyton is the co-director of the Canadian Institute for Inclusion and Citizenship and a co-researcher with self-advocates using social justice Disability theatre as a platform to advance inclusive research practices. Leyton has been a middle and secondary classroom teacher and a learning support teacher K–12. He has many books, articles, and films referenced in local, national, and international contexts.