District Education Implications

With everything there is always two sides to every story. Inclusion is a hot topic in education where both opinions look at the possible educational ramifications for students in the inclusive setting. Research supports inclusion within the classroom in that if the correct resources and strategies are made available, students will be able to succeed. However, it can create a lot of additional work for teachers trying to reach the goals of the IEP as well as the stress that comes with the job.

In order for schools to promote inclusive education they can:

Consider inclusive education first.
Special education services can be provided in many different settings. Schools are required to consider the general education class before considering any other setting for your child to receive special education services.

Support each child’s learning.
Teachers support learning in inclusive classrooms in three ways. First, they teach so that students with differing abilities and learning styles can understand and participate. Second, they modify assignments when they are too difficult. Third, they model respect and encourage friendships.

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There are some practices that need to be in place in the school in order to be successful:

1. Organization
   Bock scheduling
   School wide behavior plan
   Looping
   Grade level teaming
2. Leadership and support
   Informational support- training/technology assistance
   Emotional support- listen to concerns
   Instrumental support- Time to meet teachers
   Appraisal- Constructive feedback
3. Redefined roles among teachers and students
   Legal implications of the Least Restrictive Environment
   Understanding the models of co-teaching
4. Collaboration
   Creating planning teams
   Recognize teachers as problem solvers
   Schedule time for teachers to work together
5. Support when needed
   Consultation
   Parallel Teaching
   Supportive Teaching
   Complementary Teaching
   Co-teaching

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