Supports for General Education Teachers to Successfully include Students with Disabilities in their Classrooms

Abstract

Currently, I am a Special Education Support Teacher, formerly titled Inclusion Specialist, with Moorpark Unified School District. I have held this position since September 1997. I have mostly case management responsibilities; ensuring that students’ IEP goals and accommodations are addressed in the general education classroom, consulting with teachers and service providers, monitoring students’ progress, and supervising supports for students. I hold a fundamental belief that all students should have equal access to an appropriate public education, along with the necessary supports to reach a reasonable measure of success in their education. My job is to oversee the programs and services for the inclusion students, so I am often speculating, and considering, if the general education teachers are receiving sufficient supports to help them successfully teach inclusion students.