Testimonials to an Inclusive Education
Inclusive Education Creates Community
"Our 'severely impaired' child already has accomplished more than we ever thought possible; and she continues to grow. Also "growing" are...many other young people. ...they will be her community. They will be the seekers of social and legislative reform to support the inclusive lifestyle to which Ro and they have grown accustomed. They gladly will be her neighbors, caretakers, job coaches, and friends of tomorrow because they shared together in today's classrooms the same space, hopes, and dreams." - Rosalind and Joe Vargo
Diversity Overcomes Anxiety
Joey, who's second grade class was segregated from disabled students, held this conversation with his father, Jeff.
"Joey: Well, half my brain says something right now."
Jeff: Oh yeah, what does half of your brain say now?
Joey: Half of my brain says I'm scared of those kids.
Jeff: What kids?
Joey: Those kids in wheelchairs.
Jeff: Why?
Joey: It's just one side of my brain. The other side says it's okay."
"Joey: Well, half my brain says something right now."
Jeff: Oh yeah, what does half of your brain say now?
Joey: Half of my brain says I'm scared of those kids.
Jeff: What kids?
Joey: Those kids in wheelchairs.
Jeff: Why?
Joey: It's just one side of my brain. The other side says it's okay."
"...I realized my child was learning to fear diversity. I couldn't make that fear go away. It was out of my control." - Jeff Tate
Jeff believed his son began to fear diversity because of the lack of inclusive education.