Elementary Inclusion
One teacher involved with an inclusive elementary school pointed out that “inclusion means creating a sense of belonging for all students… a new way to look at the art of teaching.” This paradigm shift has prompted teachers, assistants and other staff members to reflect on their current practices and how they have had positive effects on all students not just those receiving special education services. Another teacher stated, “by adopting Schools of Promise [an inclusive reform program], we have undertaken a way to include every learner, child and adult, to the height of his/her abilities, and allow everyone to learn and grow together.” A critical mass of educators involved in this process saw the need for change in how services were being delivered not just for some, but for all.
If inclusive school reform is to be achieved, it is important for teachers to see all students as their responsibility and work towards making each and every one of them successful. One of the accomplishments of providing inclusive services for all students has been the increased collective understanding and communication about the use of human resources and the problem solving needed to address issues as they arise. The teachers quoted above meet frequently to make plans for serving students. This has involved seeing beyond one’s own classroom or team to seeing the whole picture of the school. In commenting on shifting responsibilities, one teacher noted, “All students should be instructed in general education classrooms. It is the teacher’s job to make it work for all students in a classroom ….to allow them to participate at their level on grade level curriculum.” Still another classroom teacher summed up her viewpoint by saying, “students are a valuable asset to each other and deserve to be educated in a regular education classroom.” For inclusive education reform to take hold, the practice of educating students effectively in the same classroom as well as truly grasping the impact, benefit and value for all participants must be considered the goal. (Causton-Theoharis, et al., 2008).
For helpful websites regarding inclusive elementary education see below:
Inclusive Elementary Education Books
Several authors have explored inclusive elementary education through various textbooks. Topics have included facilitating inclusion, social justice, and practical strategies for including students with disabilities. To read more about these books click here: read more...
Inclusive Elementary Education Articles
Several topics surrounding inclusive elementary education have been explored in the current literature. Such topics include paraprofessionals, school reform, differentiation and adaptation, and social justice. To read more about these topics click here: read more...