What is inclusion? .
For the purposes of education, inclusion is the word used to describe a child with a disability being placed in a regular class. But does that really constitute being included in a classroom? Simply filling a seat inside a room? According to Kids Together, Inc., a resource for children and adults with disabilities, "inclusion is part of a much larger picture than just placement in the regular class within school. Inclusion is being a part of what everyone else is, being welcomed and embraced as a member who belongs. Inclusion can occur in schools, churches, playgrounds, work, and in recreation" (Kids Together, Inc., 2009).
Here are some other ways to define inclusion: In the Supreme Court ruling of Brown v. Board of Education in 1954, Chief Justice Earl Warren, referring to segregation of children by race, stated: Today, education is perhaps the most important function of state and local governments. It's a principal instrument in awakening the child to cultural values, in preparing him for later professional training, and in helping him to adjust normally to his environment. In these days, it is doubtful that any child may reasonably be expected to succeed in life if he is denied the opportunity of an education. Such an opportunity is a right which must be made available on equal terms. We conclude that in the field of education, the doctrine "separate and equal" has no place.
While these arguments were originally made as regards to racial equality, the same arguments can be made for children with disabilities, as many have been segregated from their non-disabled peers despite specific legislation mandating otherwise (U.S. Department of Education, 2000).
The Laws Regarding Inclusion.
It is difficult to get an understanding of what an inclusive education means without knowing what the laws are that govern it. According to the National Education Association, two federal laws govern education of children with disabilities.
