How does the principal establish an effective school-wide positive behavioral support system? An effective school-wide positive behavioral support system consists of three parts: Shifting from a reactive stance to a responsive stance; Emphasizing proactive strategies, such as defining, teaching and supporting appropriate behaviors Establishing a continuum of positive behavior support for all students provided by… 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

Collaboration among people is one of the most important factors in successful inclusive schools. Inclusive Schools Week happens during a time that many cultures consider a season of celebration and giving. This is a perfect time to celebrate the people who you credit with being supportive of inclusive education in your school and community—the teachers… Read more

Just over a decade ago, Jeffrey Pfeffer and Robert Sutton authored The Knowing-Doing Gap: How Smart Companies Turn Knowledge into Action.  Their point:  we know a great deal, are generally well trained, yet despite all of our knowing, we still are not doing what we know should be done.  In the words of the authors… Read more

Principals play a key role in the delivery of quality instruction. Their responsibilities include ensuring educational strategies are in place that support effective learning for all students. They serve as a facilitator, guide and supporter of quality instructional practices. Good principals understand that improved test scores are important but know that quality instruction is essential… Read more

SchoolBook, a New York Times and New York City Public Radio hosted news site, has been closely following the overhaul of special education practices in New York City public schools toward inclusive education as the norm, not the exception. This series of reports on SchoolBook has covered a variety of topics associated with the significant… Read more

Educators and parents agree that the initial work required to create inclusive schools often involves a shift in philosophy and changes in instructional practice. This work is not easy and the time frame for successful change from limited knowledge of inclusive practices to a smooth system of services and supports usually requires at least two… Read more

THE MARYLAND COALITION ON INCLUSIVE EDUCATION Tools and Strategies for Inclusive Schools INCLUSIVE EDUCATION STARTER KIT Chapter 3: Steps to Implementing Inclusive Education ESSENTIAL BEST PRACTICES IN INCLUSIVE SCHOOLS GUIDE A guide intended for use by school teams, families and administrators, based on the principles of universal design and instruction so the ideas apply to… Read more

As teachers and administrators are winding down from the current school year, they are also thinking ahead to the next school year and how to make it even more successful. Are you looking for resources that will support teacher development pre-K-12 over the summer and during the next school year? Online modules from Vanderbilt University… Read more