SCHOOL DISTRICT 87 ADOPTS INCLUSION MODEL
District 87 Transitions to Inclusion
School District 87 will transition to a new model of special education service delivery effective with the start of the 2010-11 school year. With the new model, the district will no longer have self contained cross categorical classes for students with mild to moderate disabilities. The new model is known as Inclusion. This change does not include students who participate in programs through the Proviso Area for Exceptional Children Special Education Cooperative (PAEC).
In the Inclusion model, students who are currently participating in cross categorical special education classrooms will be taught in the general education program. Regular education teachers and special education teachers will work in the general education classrooms together and co-teach the curriculum material. Students with Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) will receive modifications and supplementary instruction based on their individual needs. The teachers will continue to provide high quality instruction based on the Illinois Learning Standards.
The Inclusion model has been piloted in District 87 over the past two school years. During the 2008-09 school year, sixth grade classes at MacArthur and Northlake Middle Schools implemented Inclusion. In the 2009-10 school year, the Inclusion pilot was extended to include not only the sixth grade classes, but also seventh grade classes in the middle schools as well as kindergarten and first grade classrooms across the district. Also, teachers and administrators have received extensive training in instructional strategies and procedures that promote student learning in inclusive classrooms.
If you have questions, or would like additional information about Inclusion, please contact the principal of your child’s school or Dr. Sheila Perry, Asst. Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction at 708-449-3321.
