Assitive Technology in the Inclusion Classroom

In Pursuit of a Just and Democratic Society

Component | Media Example | Personal Experience Example | Leadership | Cheryl Jorgensen in the media clip “Including Samuel” is an example of leadership. | Harris Poret establishing the Terrebonne Association of Retraded Citizens. | Advocacy | Anne Huff in the media clip Including Samuel” | Mrs. Murphy in her pursuit of an appropriate education in college prep classes | Policy | Joe Ballard | | Law | Judith | |

What roles influenced special education leadership, advocacy, policy, and law?

In my reading and review I have noticed that the roles that influenced leadership in special education is the role of the Special Education Supervisor and the teacher. Both have been strong supporters of a free and appropriate education for children with special needs. The Special Education Supervisor has pushed the school districts to do what is right and just for the children with special needs. He/she has fought to get the funding required to meet the everyday needs of the students in the district. The Special Education Supervisor could not effectively do his/her job without the assistance and input of the special education teacher. The special education teacher works closely with the general education teachers to assist in making sure that all students receive a free and appropriate education. This may mean obtaining materials and/or assistance with modifications and meeting the accommodations of the students in the classroom. The special education teacher has to lead the way and show others what can be done to ensure that all students are being treated equally and fairly. The advocate role is strongly influenced by parents. Parents step up and demand what is needed for their children. Without the parent showing interest and determination and advocating for what is right and just for their children, many of the needs would go unmet. That is not to say the special education teacher would not try to ensure that the needs are met, but the parent holds more weight at school board meetings. The parent is the one who goes to the special education or general education teacher and actively monitors their child’s progress and needs in the classroom. The parent then request the special education teacher to assist with getting the materials and/or equipment needed for the child’s success. In my example I chose Anne Huff as the advocate example. Anne’s daughter Emily has schizophrenia. Anne has pushed to ensure that her daughter receives an education that is appropriate and Anne’s needs are being met. Anne educated herself and about what would be best for her child. She realized that to keep Emily healthy and happy, inclusion was not the answer. While the school system pushed for inclusion, Anne recognized it as the wrong intervention and was able to find the setting in which Emily could function and that would best meet her needs. Sometimes being an advocate means making decisions that are not very popular or that do not go along with what the teachers and districts want. In response to her decision Anne Huff stated, “Always remember that keeping her spirit in tact is the most important thing you’re going to ever do” (15). As Jan Nisbet explained about Anne’s decision “families are put in positions to have to make really horrible choices.”(15) The Special Education Supervisor takes the request of the parent and teacher to the district Superintendent. This is where the district will set policy for all students. With the policy set district wide, the teachers and parents can begin to gather data to show whether or not progress is being made. If the policy set forth by the district is a policy that enables all students with special needs to get the help and materials necessary, then they can start a grass roots movement to set forth the policy at the state and or federal level.