The Sustainability of Inclusionary Practices: A Case Study

Abstract:

In this article the authors describe a qualitative study that researched the sustainability of responsible inclusive practices in a public elementary school in Connecticut. Through focus group sessions that included teachers, administrators and support staff, five themes were identified that demonstrate importance in the sustainability of inclusion. The data revealed the following five consistent themes as integral to responsible inclusive practices: (1) Public Service with a Moral Purpose, (2) Culture and Commitment, (3) Data-Driven Decision Making. (4) Leadership Qualities and (5) Co-Teaching and Community Involvement. Keywords: responsible inclusion; sustainability of inclusion; leadership qualities