Resources

• Recordings from the (US) National Down Syndrome Congress 2016 Convention

From (US) National Down Syndrome Congress e-News, August 2016

... This is traditionally the time of year that we get sooo many questions about the successful inclusion of students with disabilities in the general education classroom. Here are a few things that may be helpful as your child goes back to school. Time after time, we refer families to these articles, written by Cheryl Jorgensen: Inclusion Works Parts 1 and 2  We also really like this webinar, presented last summer by PEAK Parent Center in Colorado. Some things you will hear:  What is inclusive schooling? What is the difference between accommodations and modifications? “All students are General Education students first.” “Fair doesn’t mean every student gets the same thing. Fair means every student gets what they need.” So much practical advice, it is well worth an hour of your time to listen to this presentation.  And here's a list of responses to “When They Say…”, the things that parents often hear from educators. These are great talking points to keep in mind during your conversations with school staff who may not share your vision. 30 Days to the Co-Taught Classroom: How to Create an Amazing, Nearly Miraculous and Frankly Earth-Shattering Partnership in One Month or Less Dr. Paula Kluth and Dr. Julie Causton, 2016 In just 30 days, they will introduce you to the information, competencies and habits you will need to become a great co-teaching partner. The authors will help you get to know your co-teacher, understand each of your roles, improve your planning and co-planning skills, expand the structures you use to teach and support students and even celebrate your accomplishments ... Achieving inclusion: What every parent should know when advocating for their child Julie Causton-Theoharis and Christi Kasa,  free download via Family Advocacy (repost) ... Despite (the) known benefits, inclusion is still not a given for many students with disabilities. As parents, you play an essential role in advocating for inclusion for your child. Whether you are in the early stages of understanding your child’s individual needs, already advocating for an inclusive classroom or hoping to understand inclusion best practices, the information in this article is vital. It is important to understand exactly what inclusion is, why it is essential and how to work with your school team to achieve it. This booklet was developed to help parents with their thinking on how best to advocate for their child when achieving inclusion.