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What's the Difference?
Mainstreaming Physically Challenged Teens By Carma Haley Shoemaker
On Academic PerformanceIf one believes that all children can learn, then the physically challenged student's academic performance can do nothing but improve in an inclusive setting. However, in order for this to occur, many things must be in place. "For the student to succeed academically, socially and emotionally, there are numerous areas to be addressed," Larkin says. "First, the teachers and specialists must know the child's academic profile, as well as his/her learning style and behavioral issues. Most importantly, they need to carefully observe the student and learn about his/her strengths and always work with the strengths, not the deficits. In addition, teachers, specialists and paraprofessionals must know how to provide adaptations and accommodations to the curriculum, be trained in positive behavioral strategies and should welcome parents as equal and important members of the team."
"One of the most important things my teen's school did when he was transferred from a private setting was include me as a part of the entire education process," says Kathy Patterson, a homemaker from Peoria, Ill. "I am his parent, and no one knows my son better than me except him. So it is only right that they involve both of us in the preparation, planning and implementation of all aspects of his education. It helped both of us feel a lot better about the whole process."
But Why?
Why inclusion? According to Larkin, it is what makes us individuals that we should welcome and celebrate. "All of us live in one world and need to welcome diversity," Larkin says. "As our children with special needs become adults, they will be living in our communities, working at different jobs and participating in all the social activities that they have access to. They have a right to live a normal and happy life like everyone else. Why inclusion? ... Because it is right!