Inclusive education can be defined as the practice of educating all students, regardless of any challenges they may have, in age-appropriate general education classes to receive high-quality instruction, interventions, and support that enable them to be successful in their enrolled grade-level curriculum.

Schools and classrooms operate on the premise that students with disabilities are as fundamentally competent as students without disabilities. Therefore, all students are full participants in the classrooms by intentionally promoting participation in all learning and social activities, facilitated by individualized accommodations and/or modifications; and using evidence-based services and supports to foster their development (cognitive, language, communication, physical, behavioral, and social-emotional). This applies to all  children with disabilities, from those with the mildest disabilities, to those with the most significant disabilities. 

Some students, like students with a disability or diverse learning needs, are at greater risk of being excluded – so inclusion is all about making sure this does not happen.

In an inclusive school:

• All students are welcomed and belong.
• Differences are understood and respected.
• Students support each other to do their best.
• The physical and learning environment is accessible.
• Everyone is committed to an inclusive school and society.