US DoE and DHHS Release Policy Statement on Inclusion in Early Childhood Programs
On September 14, 2015, the United States Departments of Education and Health & Human Services released a joint policy statement setting the expectation that “all young children with disabilities should have access to inclusive high-quality early childhood programs, where they are provided with individualized and appropriate support in meeting high expectations.” Recommendations are made to states, local education agencies, and families. Following are the recommendations for local districts:
Partner with Families.
Adhere to Legal Provision of Supports and Services in Inclusive Settings with IFSPs/IEPs.
Assess and Improve the Quality of Inclusion in Early Childhood Programs.
Review and Modify Resource Allocation.
Enhance Professional Development.
Establish an Appropriate Staffing Structure and Strengthen Staff Collaboration.
Ensure Access to Specialized Supports.
Develop Formal Collaborations with Community Partners.
You can access the full policy statement as well as all of the recommendations in detail by visiting http://www2.ed.gov/about/inits/ed/earlylearning/inclusion/index.html.
Please feel free to contact Lydia Moore if you would like to explore how to provide more inclusive early childhood opportunities for your students.
