Let's strive for a school system, where from the top down, administrators, and educators see their role as including being advocates for all students, including students with disabilities.  In this article, Greta Harrison makes important statements, " I believe parents of children with disabilities receive much more “bad news” from teachers than good news.....I have been thinking about how different each school and school system would be if every educator had a positive attitude — if every educator truly felt they were each child’s advocate. "
https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/why-teachers-become-advocates-kids-210455400.html

In this video, Jill explains the best way to teach your child the meaning of spoken words.

By Jill Hicks

Sometimes students with different learning abilities are assigned to a "Life Skills" program.  The problem isn't with learning life skills.  Life skills are important.  The problem is deciding students with Down syndrome should not be included.  That they are incapable of benefiting from academic instruction.  

Click on the colored "Read More" to continue.

By Jill Hicks

​Carly Anderson has written an excellent article to prepare parents for IEP/IPP meetings.  Carly gives practical advice about how to be prepared for the meeting, how to keep communication open, set goals and measure progress.  Well worth the read.  You can find the article by clicking this link. 

To quotes below were taken from the article:  Inclusive education vital for all, including persons with disabilities – UN experts.  (bold mine)

"a truly inclusive learning environment values the contribution and potential of persons with disabilities, and equips them with essential life, language and social skills."

“Placing students with disabilities in mainstream classes without accompanying structural changes to, for example, organisation, curriculum and teaching and learning strategies, does not constitute inclusion” 

“Inclusive education is important not only for persons with disabilities but the societies they live in, as it helps to combat discrimination, and to promote diversity and participation.”

“focuses on the full and effective participation, accessibility, attendance and achievement of all students, especially those who, for different reasons, are excluded or at risk of being marginalized.” 

To read the original article "Inclusive education vital for all, including persons with disabilities – UN experts" click here.

It is important to note that this convention supports our teachers acquiring the skills they need to provide inclusive education. Inclusive education works best when teachers are given adequate support and training. Quote from "Article 24:  Right to inclusive education" point 12 d):

"Supported teachers: All teachers and other staff receive education and training giving them the core values and competencies to accommodate inclusive learning environments..."

To read the full text of "General Comment No. 4" click here: 
Article 24: Right to inclusive education  (Adopted 26 August 2016) from the "Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities".

I hope you enjoy Hannah's latest dance.  

Hannah loves dancing.  She also loves doing art.  Hannah has been working hard on her own website called "Hannah Hicks Art".  You can check it out at www.HannahHicksArt.com .  I hope you enjoy her performance.