Characteristics of Inclusive Schools Knowing Doing Gap (PDF)
Watch The Characteristics of Inclusive Educators (Video)
Inclusive Educators
- Realize that inclusion is for every student. One of the most powerful of human needs is to belong.
- Flip old conceptions of places and labels in favor of individual student needs.
- Understand that Inclusion does not mean 100% of the students spend 100% of the day in the general education classroom. Inclusion and Individualization are synonymous.
- Realize that “The integration of professionals within a school system is a prerequisite to the successful integration of students. We cannot ask our students to do things which we as professionals are unwilling to do.” –Harris (1987)
- Recognize the difference between an adult issue and a student issue and minimize the focus on the first.
- Collaborate like they mean it! And Learn to have courageous conversations.
- Recognize three types of inclusion: Physical, Academic, and Social.
- Commit to issues of equity and access.
- Understand that there is no such thing as excellence without equity.
- Understand that there are no unique methodologies for students with disabilities.
- Recognize that instructional accommodations/scaffolding offers a magic option for almost every student.
- Believe in miracles.
