Inclusion is more than being included

Inclusion only works if it's done right.

The fact that the term "inclusion" even exists is proof we have a long way to go before achieving equality for those with disabilities. To me, inclusion goes well beyond the classroom and least restrictive environment. Inclusion can make a difference in all aspects of a child's education and life.

Special education was meant to be a service, not a place. The same holds true for inclusion. To simply place a child with his-her peers is not enough, it is only part of the service. Without needed supports, the child will not receive the educational benefit they should. Some districts in the state fully include the majority of their special education students. This can be problematic if it is not in the best interest of the child. On the contrary, in many districts not all children who would benefit from inclusion are given that opportunity, especially if the disability is moderate or severe. Many parents have to fight for their child's right to inclusion. We fought our school district for seven months to get our son partially included. Also, children who are included are entitled to receive educational benefits, not merely exist or gain some social or play skills.

To me, inclusion is more than just being included. It is belonging. It is attending your neighborhood school, whether in a self-contained classroom or not. It is for that self-contained classroom to not be in the far left corner of that neighborhood school. It is sitting among regular education students during lunchtime and not just at a separate table in the same lunchroom. It is being part of the district's school calendar and not being just a "reading buddy" in January. Inclusion is not only educating those with disabilities in their least restrictive environment, it is also teaching the regular education students about dignity and respect.