Inclusion Resources
Inclusive education means that ALL children, regardless of their abilities, have the opportunity to learn and be together in the same classroom. This aligns perfectly with our Catholic faith in that we believe we are all created in the image of God and are worthy of respect. As Catholics, we must strive to support all of God's children regardless of their abilities, giving them a sense of belonging and helping them reach their full potential academically, socially, and spiritually.
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Did you know? Evidence shows that educating children in an inclusive environment can improve learning and academic scores for all, both those with and without disabilities. ​
For students with disabilities, the benefits are numerous:
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Improved social skills and increased friendships
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Access to peer role models for social, academic, and behavioral skills
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Opportunity to receive the sacraments and participate in the mass with peers
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Higher expectations for learning
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Enhanced parent/school interactions
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Better preparation for long-term success in their communities (opportunities for employment, etc.)
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For​ typical peers, perceived benefits include:​
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Increased understanding and acceptance of those with differing abilities
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Enhanced empathy and compassion
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​Opportunities for developing leadership and mentoring skills
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Potential for greater academic outcomes
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Opportunities to live out their Catholic faith more fully
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Meaningful friendships​
"I love going to school with my friends with special needs. We always have so much fun together and our class is like a big family. I have so much fun playing with everyone and learning new things with them. It is a reminder for me to love everyone because God made us all special."
~ Mira Elzein
Typical Peer & Friend
"When our friend with special needs first started at our school, I thought of all the ways our school could help him. I never thought of all the ways he would help our school. I've seen his classmates put him before themselves, check on him if they know he's in a situation where he needs extra love, and form patience and tolerance when including him in all things. That's not anything that can be taught - and it's most definitely something we can all stand to learn."
~ Maggie Mulkey
Parent of Typical Peer
"Students with exceptionalities can be intimidating to a teacher because you don't want to fail them. But it quickly becomes the greatest gift that you never knew you needed. These students teach us that our capacity to love is even more than we could imagine, and that is the true key to inclusion. The academics will come, but only if they first feel safe, known, and loved. Our Catholic schools provide the perfect environment for that."
~ Melissa Klein
Kindergarten Teacher
"The culture of inclusion within our school has changed the entire student body. It is just what we do and who we are. It is a blessing to see our students with special needs thrive and have success and see their peers benefit in so many ways as well. Our student body has the opportunity to sit beside those with extra needs and witness the supports required for their success. Today's peers are tomorrow's employers, and it is hugely beneficial that these kids are growing up together. It is a natural bridge for the future."
~ Ali Moore
Special Education Teacher
" Having a friend with different abilities in our class is impactful. It helps teach us to be kind and caring to others."
~ Harper Renn
Typical Peer & Friend
"As Catholics, we believe every human being is created in the image and likeness of God and that all life is a gift from God to be cherished. We’ve raised our children with these values and taught them that every human being is unique and deserves unconditional love. What a blessing it has been that our children can attend an inclusive Catholic school that enables them to put these values into action. As our children get to know, help and build friendships with fellow students who have unique needs, it has enriched all our lives in ways we never could have imagined."
~ Kelly Novascone
Parent of Typical Peer
