When you hear the words “inclusive education,” what do you imagine?

A grandparent shared a story with us that offers a real-life example in our community:

The grandparent worried whether their grandchild would be included in a school trip. The school’s principal offered reassurance, saying, “We plan for all students.”

Still, the grandparent remained unsure – until her grandchild brought home a custom picture book. An education assistant had photographed key trip locations and read it with the grandchild daily to prepare and build confidence.

The grandchild enjoyed a fantastic trip with their class.

Touched by the school’s thoughtful effort, the grandparent said, “The principal’s commitment to inclusion made all the difference.”

There are countless other examples in our community:

• Classmates welcoming a fellow student with a disability to play baseball with them – and cheering

• A teen with a disability making their first genuine friend thanks to an inclusive classroom

• A child building the skills to use emotional intelligence and communication while participating in a supportive and inclusive childcare space

• A student with autism, who missed formative school and social experiences because of the COVID-19 pandemic, now thriving in school thanks to administrators, educators, and students welcoming, supporting, and including rather than excluding them

There is so much more to be done.

National Inclusive Education Month in February celebrates and promotes the dignity and benefits of inclusive education and inclusive learning environments – where all learners, both with and without disabilities, can learn, grow, and thrive, together.

When schools, parents, teachers, and students embrace inclusion, the entire community benefits.

Children who learn and interact together in welcoming environments also learn to live and interact well together as adults. Those adults are better able to build and participate in vibrant communities where everyone belongs.

How will you champion inclusive education?

Help spread the word to make inclusion the standard.