Nobody wants to be left out. And, it turns out, it’s to everyone’s benefit when we make inclusion part of our educational model. And where best to see inclusion at its best? In a micro-school, of course!
When we talk about inclusion in education we are talking about including all students, regardless of any challenges they may have, in educational activities – classwork, extra curricular activities, or class outings.
Successful inclusion in education can only happen through accepting, understanding, and attending to student differences and diversity – addressing physical, cognitive, academic, cultural, gender, emotional or social issues- as well as other forms of human differences. The goal is to make all students feel welcome, support them in their efforts and challenge them appropriately.
Our rainbow of different learners can best have their needs addressed when the teacher-student ratio is low and the educational model is proactive and student-centered. Students learn better, and teachers can aid them better in a general educational setting in an environment with the least restrictions.
A micro-school has the ability to structure the environment so that the bright twice-exceptional (2E) math student can get help with group interactions or have varied options to support sensory needs. The anxious student can get prompt assistance, before frustration builds and emotions overwhelm. The student with ADHD can be directed as needed to start a task and stay focused.
At LEADPrep we know that research has clearly shown that students with and without challenges thrive and learn better in this type of environment. This includes academic gains in literacy and math, as well as better social and communication skills and more friendships. Students in inclusive educational environments also have fewer absences, a higher self-concept, and actually like school and their teachers.
Students in progressive micro-schools like LEADPrep are motivated to work harder and learn more. Let’s demand more inclusive options that support all learners!
Read more: https://education.cu-portland.edu/blog/classroom-resources/inclusive-education/
