AWSP is proud to be one of many organizations involved with the IPPDP cadre as an external partner navigating the implementation of better inclusionary practices for Washington state educators; our focus being, of course, YOU, the building lead learners. Since November 2019, AWSP has embarked on a âfact-findingâ crusade to measure the understanding of what inclusion and inclusionary practices are from our membersâ perspective and evaluate what the immediate needs are in order to embed targeted inclusionary practices within all of our professional learning opportunities.
What is Inclusion?
Through our inclusion research journey over the last years, AWSP has realized there are many interpretations of what inclusion and inclusionary practices are within context and practice. OSPI has provided the state definition of Inclusion that all cadre partners will utilize with their target audiences:
Inclusion is realized when all students, regardless of their designation to receive special education services, are provided with targeted interventions and accommodations, allowing them to learn in the general education classroom and engage in the core curriculum. Inclusion is the belief that all students have a right to meaningfully participate in the general education setting, both academically and socially. Inclusive instruction rebukes the problematic perspective that students receiving special education services need to âfit inâ or âearn their wayâ into general education classes. The belief that general education instruction is not malleable and that students should be making adaptations to be included in the general education setting has contributed to the continuation of two parallel systems of education in which students receiving special education services are marginalized and devalued as a result of their environmental segregation.
AWSP will embed this definition within internal systems and cycles of inquiry as well as within all professional learning opportunities offered. It is the state standard. When all educators function within a common definition and a common language on new initiatives, foundations, and relationships begin to be built across systems, thereby creating sustainability.
Why Inclusion? Why Now?
Why such a push on inclusionary practices now? Because it is way overdue. Based on the body of research, the current reality of inclusionary practice programs in Washington state showcases much room for improvement. As learning leaders, we know you are all focused on improving the culture, systems, and learning in your buildings and are committed to learning about and supporting inclusionary best practices. AWSP will continue to provide ongoing professional learning embedded with inclusionary best practices to assist you in increasing the academic, social, and emotional outcomes for all students. AWSP is dedicated to supporting you through engaging professional learning as you navigate your way to improved inclusionary practices for all your students and your entire school community.
Trainings and Resources from Dr. Shelley Moore
Dr. Shelley Moore is a world-renowned educator, YouTube video sensation, TED talker, and our neighbor to the north. Based in Vancouver, B.C., Shelley Moore is a highly sought-after teacher, researcher, consultant, and storyteller. She has worked with school districts and community organizations throughout both Canada and the United States.
The Infrastructure of Inclusion
AWSP is excited to partner with Dr. Shelley Moore on “The Infrastructure of Inclusion.” Advanced districts with previous training from Dr. Shelley Moore will be invited to set up collaborative coaching sessions to coordinate with the series
5 Moore Minutes + AWSP: Podcasts
We are proud to present Shelley Moore’s special edition of 5 Moore Minutes videos and podcast in partnership with AWSP. Watch her videos on the role of place, the importance of presuming competence, and more.
Past Projects and Resources
Access materials from:
Professional Learning From Internationally Renowned Inclusion Experts
We were able to bring you many incredible speakers and educators for free through our Inclusionary Practices grant through OSPI. Increase your inclusionary practices praxis with presenters Shelley Moore, Dr. Lauren Katzman, Dan Habib, Samuel Habib, LeDerick Horne, Keith Jones, and Dr. Alfredo Artiles. All of our inclusionary practices, professional learning workshops, podcasts, and resources are available on our LMS.Â
Key Terms Related to Inclusionary Practices
As part of the Inclusionary Practices Project, many partners across the state are working collaboratively to align inclusionary practices. This includes the creation of agreed-upon definitions of key terms related to inclusionary practices.Â