National Study on Inclusion: Overview & Summary Report.

Overview & Synopsis

This report summarizes findings of a study to identify key factors of inclusive education practices, as identified by school districts implementing such practices. The study involved contacting chief state education officers for state-level information and identification of local school districts conducting inclusive education programs and then contacting local school district superintendents. Key findings from the data included: (1) the number of school districts reporting inclusive education programs increased significantly between 1994 and 1995 (from 267 districts in 47 states to 891 districts in 50 states); (2) outcomes for students (both general and special education students) in inclusive education programs are positive; (3) teachers participating in inclusive education programs report positive professional outcomes for themselves; (4) the range of disabilities in inclusive education programs is increasing; and (5) school restructuring efforts are having an impact on inclusive education programs, and vice-versa. Separate sections of the report present the study's findings on the following topics: initiation and process of inclusive education programs in local school districts; the role of inclusive education in restructuring; the extent of inclusive education; staffing and school organization; staff attitudes; instructional strategies and classroom supports; parental response; student outcomes and program evaluation; and fiscal issues. The report also presents recommendations such as renewal by Congress of basic student rights enumerated in the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, full infusion of inclusive education in all aspects of educational reform, and reform of federal and state funding practices to support inclusive education. (DB)