Reflections on Your Role and Responsibility Around Inclusion

I’ve spent the past 15 years advocating for my son with Down syndrome. In that time, I’ve encountered a spectrum of general educators. Some were hesitant. Some were fervent champions of inclusion. The majority have approached their role with openness and empathy. They have shown a willingness to stretch beyond their comfort zones.

I remember a first-grade teacher who, from day one, met her new student on the carpet. She read to him and nurtured a bond that enriched their entire year together. Then there was the elementary teacher who, at one point, candidly shared her first struggles, ultimately embracing her role. And there was the middle school teacher who welcomed my son into the musical chorus. He created an environment where my son confidently auditioned and his peers saw him as one of their own.

All of these educators cultivated a sense of value and belonging for a child with an intellectual disability within the school community.

So, as we celebrate Teacher Appreciation Week, I offer this letter to you—a reflection on the impact of your role in fostering inclusion and creating meaningful educational experiences for all students.

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Dear General Education Teacher,

I want to start by acknowledging the profound impact you have on the lives of all your students, including those with disabilities. Your role in fostering inclusion and creating equitable educational experiences is pivotal.

What I Wish You Knew

For those who have yet to teach a student with an intellectual disability, here are some key insights:

It’s OK to be nervous.
The unknown can be daunting, but your nerves indicate care and a readiness to learn.

This is just another type of difference.
Like other differences you’ve encountered, this is another opportunity to foster inclusion.

You will grow as a teacher.
Countless educators have shared that teaching a child like mine has profoundly enriched their teaching experience. You will gain insights and skills that will positively impact all aspects of your professional journey.

Communication is key.
Regular updates and collaboration with families like ours are fundamental to successful inclusion.

My Advice

Whether you are a first-timer or veteran, here’s some actionable advice to support you in this journey:

Expect; don’t accept.
Always presume competence and set high expectations. This means recognizing and believing in the capabilities of every student, regardless of their challenges or differences. By adopting these principles, you will contribute significantly to the academic and personal growth of your students with disabilities. You will foster a culture of high expectations and empowerment within the classroom and beyond.

Seek support and resources.
Don’t hesitate to collaborate with special educators for guidance and support. There is a whole world of online resources out there–many of them free–to guide you on this journey.

Acknowledge and affirm that these are YOUR students.
It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking students with disabilities are the special educator’s students who are visiting your classroom. However, that mindset creates barriers to inclusion. All students are your students.

Model authentic inclusion and expect it from your students.
A classroom environment where all students are treated with dignity and understanding is where these students will thrive. A huge part of that is promoting genuine peer interaction. Students with disabilities are equals. They are not an opportunity for students to be kind to but a member of the community to be embraced. They should be engaged with and respected.

Thank You

I offer you this advice not as a directive, but as shared wisdom from the countless educators whose lives have been profoundly enriched by teaching students like mine. Thank you for being a champion of inclusion and for making a difference in the lives of your students. Together, we can continue to create spaces where everyone belongs and thrives.

With sincere appreciation.