Inclusionary Practices

About

Inclusion in the Classroom

Since 2019 when the Inclusionary Practices Project (IPP) launched to improve inclusion rates in Washington schools, there have been significant increases in inclusion of students with disabilities. However, two student groups continue to experience the highest rates of exclusion; students with intellectual and developmental disabilities and Black students with disabilities. IPP, now OSPI’s Inclusionary Practices Technical Assistance Network (IPTN), continues to focus on educational justice and equal opportunity for meaningful inclusion by working to disrupt segregated systems.

The NWESD as a part of the Association of Educational Service Districts (AESD) offers professional learning and support for school leaders implementing and improving inclusive education. IPTN focuses on providing professional learning, technical assistance, networking and coaching with an additional focus on the outcomes and the inclusion of students with intellectual and developmental disabilities and for Black students with disabilities. Inclusionary Practices aims to create sustainable systems, structures, and practices that support all students, and especially students who experience the highest rates of exclusion from general education.

The NWESD is committed to supporting the IPTN aim as well as offering fee-based services to support school and district improvement efforts related to Universal Design for Learning, Tier 1 instruction, and inclusive, engaging supports for students least well served. Contact the regional coordinator for resources, TA, professional learning and support.

Goals:

Disrupt segregated systems of disproportionality.
Reduce exclusionary practices
Increase inclusion in general education classrooms.
Strengthen Tier 1 instruction.
Improve student engagement & increase opportunity for social/emotional skill building.
Increase statewide support for inclusive practices.

Our Services

Developing inclusionary practices in our region

To improve our schools’ ability to develop inclusive systems of support, the NWESD is providing professional development and coaching for school leadership teams using Universal Design for Learning (UDL), MTSS and Inclusionary Practices.

Supported by a regional coordinator, school leadership teams join others from around the state participating in professional learning to:

Develop a common vision and philosophy of inclusion
Analyze current practices to identify areas of strength and need
Create an action plan to improve inclusion and inclusionary practices

Interested in more information?

If you would like to consult with the Inclusionary Practices Coordinator at the NWESD about your school or district’s needs, please email Cassie Stevens.