Inclusive Education is, first and foremost, an attitude, a
value and a belief system. It has been defined as a shared value that
promotes a single system of education dedicated to ensuring that all
students are empowered to become competent and contributing citizens in
an integrated, changing and diverse society.
Student Needs:
Students
receiving supports through the inclusion program have mild to severe
special education needs, such as developmental delays, intellectual
impairment, physical impairment, emotional and behavioral challenges,
autism and other disabilities. The majority of their instruction is
provided in the general education setting, with supports as needed.
Overview:
Inclusion
is the belief that everyone belongs and everyone benefits. This
educational model requires schools to meet the needs of all students by
educating learners with disabilities alongside their non-disabled peers.
It is based on the belief that all children can learn together in the
same schools and classrooms with appropriate supports. The environment
necessary to nurture and foster inclusion is built upon a shared belief
system between general and special education, and a willingness to merge
the talents and resources of teachers and support staff.