The complete question
What can administrators do to set a positive tone about inclusion for the entire school? What are the things that need to happen at the school level rather than with the individual teacher?
Expert answer
The initiative now is an MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Support) approach. So you look at MTSS and using strategies that are associated with Universal Design. When I spent a lot of time in schools, I had a really hard time seeing students as either special education or general education. I think kids fall along a continuum. And I think that we have to equip teachers with the tools to be able to address the needs of students along the continuum.
General education teachers really have a great understanding of the curriculum, and special education teachers have expertise in individualizing instruction, classroom management, and behavior supports. And so if they come together as a community, it really benefits all kids.