Words are powerful. Consistency in the words we use to describe services and supports for students with disabilities must be clear and consistent across the district for all children, parents, teachers, and community members. This brief tutorial defines inclusion and provides clarity regarding commonly used terms, such as PLAAFP, Curricular Supports, Advanced Supports, Support Facilitation… Read more

For decades, the roles of special education personnel changed very little. They were assigned their roles on the basis of the labels of the students they served or the places they provided their services. With the shift to inclusive philosophies and integrated practices, special education personnel recognized that their roles were not static but based… Read more

Collaborative teaching is an instructional delivery strategy in which two or more certified teachers share the roles and responsibilities of instruction in the same classroom at the same time. Collaborative teaching partners should consider the following conditions for successful co-teaching: Joint planning Shared ownership and accountability for all students in the class Equitable responsibility for the… Read more

The frustration regarding limited time for collaborative teaching partners to meet and plan instruction are high on most lists of co-teachers. Within the past five years, there have been many articles written about the necessity of quality planning time. As a result, many principals have made certain to build into their master schedules a planning opportunity for grade level teams… Read more

What are the roles for co-teachers? From Marilyn Friend’s work, there are six different roles for collaborative teachers. In the best partnerships, each of these roles is used in response to student interests, learning needs, curriculum content, and effective instructional practices and teacher partner strengths and interests. We will provide a brief description of these… Read more

Common planning time among educators is a crucial element in the success of an inclusive school. Planning time helps improve instruction by allowing teachers to share best practices, look at students' work, and plan curriculum and lessons together. In order for planning to contribute meaningfully to curriculum development and implementation, sufficient time should be built… Read more

Teaching is a dynamic and rewarding profession, and when educators come together as collaborative teaching teams, magic happens. The power of synergy, collective wisdom, and shared passion for student success creates an extraordinary learning environment. In this blog post, we celebrate the achievements of collaborative teaching teams and explore the many benefits they bring to… Read more

The journey to becoming an Inclusive School may be long and challenging at times, but ultimately this journey can strengthen a school community and benefitALL children.  "Inclusion" does not simply mean the placement of students with disabilities in general education classes.  This process must incorporate fundamental change in the way a school community supports and addresses… Read more

The campus administrator plays an important role in establishing school climate.  It is the administrator who provides the vision and guidance needed to establish a positive campus environment.  Successful principals understand that positive relationships and respect for others are necessary for student success.  They realize the attitudes and actions of adults in the learning place… Read more