Overcoming Barriers in Inclusive Education 

The world of education looks very different than it did 10 years ago! Have you ever wondered if a school changes their teaching practices based on what the students need based on the year? DAA is a great example of changing practices and ways we do it to meet student needs. We have always loved being an inclusionary school, but our student support team kicked it up a notch and DAA is reframing what “special education” means for everyone. 

There are a lot of barriers in any school that prevent inclusive education from happening, but our amazing team has put light to these barriers and are looking for solutions and ways we can provide the best support for our students. After all, all means all.

Below are some barriers most schools struggle with implementing and what DAA has implemented and are working on to crush these barriers!

Physical Barriers:
When planning and working with environments that are inclusive of all people, regardless of ability, we must keep in mind how accessible spaces are. Are the desks too close to each other? How’s the flow of the room? Are materials stored too high where a student can’t reach? Are elevators available in the building? These are all questions we must ask ourselves about the places we inhabit. One thing our new building will offer us is a one floor layout that does not require an elevator as well as ample spaces and no barrier for entries and hallways! All of our students will be able to access spaces rather they use a cane, a wheelchair or their two little feet to get around!

Resource Barriers:
So many communities are impacted by a lack of knowledge of resources that include: programs available, advocacy resources, availability of spaces, etc. Our staff is committed to providing resources to our families that can best benefit our students and the community. Our student support team is also an amazing resource to help students and their families with their rights and community resources to help students grow and develop their amazing skills! We believe each and every one of our students can contribute to our society in big ways when we stick together and help each other out! 

Instructional Practice Barriers:
It’s hard to break molds when it’s established with such strong foundations. The world of inclusion is new and schools struggle to do it with fidelity. However, with the right support, this is not difficult! With the right mindset, restructuring of policies and expectations, our classrooms and lessons can definitely overcome these barriers. Currently, inclusion specialists at DAA work closely with teachers to give feedback on appropriate accommodations and modifications that can benefit all students. It all begins with collaboration. It’s not a quick fix, but constant ongoing work. Not one student learns the same, which is why our practice is ever changing! This shows all the Habits of Character! 

Much like each crew at our school, our adult crew also grow and learn each day through our students and each other through collaboration and sharing resources. One resource our inclusion team loves is a website called Think Inclusive. Here are some of our favorite articles and podcasts they have put out so you can listen too: 

Come join us on this amazing journey as we make learning fun and accessible for all!

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