Most schools around the world teach in classrooms segregated by ability. One of the main arguments for maintaining this school system is that children will be able to excel in classes that are more specifically tailored to them. However, this argument hides a brutal history of ableism. According to UNICEF, this teaching style systematically excludes and oppresses children with disabilities, denying them “the chance to take part in their communities, the workforce and the decisions that most affect them.” Ability segregated classrooms do more harm than good.
The Henderson School is an inclusion school, which means “Students who have disabilities learn in general education classrooms with their non-disabled peers"(BostonPublicSchools.org). While it may seem like a small change, the impact is huge. Due to the “histories of students with disabilities not being allowed to attend public schools or being cast aside as “unteachable” within schools” Henderson’s model of inclusive learning “exemplifies growth in the areas of civil rights and education for students with disabilities,” (theclio.com). Since its founding, Henderson has become one of the most important schools in the nation; it has become a text-book example for excellence when it comes to incorporating the inclusion school ideology. Its importance does not end at the country’s borders. Every single year, the Henderson school accepts international visitors who are there to examine the Henderson model of learning and learn how to effectively incorporate the ideology of inclusion into schools back in their home nations. Henderson provides a revolutionary teaching model that prioritizes civil rights and accessibility for all students. The inclusion school model is important for creating a loving environment where students can excel regardless of their identity or history.
Written By: Ocean Muir
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