During #InclusiveSchoolsWeek and the Friday before my son’s transition to high school and triennial IEP meeting, I find myself reflecting on our family’s journey and current position while contemplating inclusion in the broader world.

Over the past 14 years, we’ve had the privilege of collaborating with countless talented and passionate professionals dedicated to tirelessly supporting and including individuals with disabilities. Our experience has largely been positive, but it’s crucial to recognize that the efforts behind the scenes, involving the child, family, friends, educators, support professionals, and more, far exceed what many people realize. For every story like ours, there are numerous others that may not be as positive.

The data and anecdotes emphasizing how the inclusion of individuals with disabilities significantly and positively impacts our schools and the greater world are truly striking.

Just a few examples include:

• The work of Kathleen Whitbread, from the University of Connecticut A.J. Pappanikou Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities Education, Research, and Service

• The endless work of the TIES Center
• Resources from TASH

Achieving inclusion for all individuals with disabilities requires us to #presumecompetence, challenge outdated thinking, and consistently share our stories. By “our,” I mean every one of you out there.

So, my challenge to all of you during #InclusiveSchoolsWeek is to share one story, one photo, one video, or one comment— on your social media accounts, or simply in a conversation—about how the inclusion of someone with a disability has impacted your life, your career, and/or your family.