Philosophy of Inclusion

Inclusion is an approach that recognizes the unique abilities of each individual child.  In order to achieve this, we use a variety of collaborative teaching models aimed at differentiating instruction to appropriately challenge and support each child’s learning modality.  The inclusion model affords all students the opportunity to reap the academic, social, and emotional benefits of instruction in the mainstream classroom.

The Role of the Collaborative Teacher

In addition to sharing teaching responsibilities in the general education classroom, the collaborative teacher provides the following support:

• Knowledge of IDEA, Section 504, and legal issues
• Management of individual IEP implementation
• Methods and strategies appropriate to needs of individual students
• Management of test modification
• Collaborative planning
• Modification of assignments and projects
• Management of evaluative modifications
• Quarterly evaluation of individual IEP’s
• Liaison between teacher, parent and CST

The Special Needs Student in the Collaborative Classroom

Special needs students in the collaborative classroom benefit from an exposure to the full rich curriculum that is studied in the general education classes.  Because they receive the attention and support of both teachers, they can successfully participate in hands on experiences and social events with their peers.  Modifications are made with the knowledge of each child’s individual needs as they are educated within the least restrictive environment as stipulated in IDEA.