TQS: 4. Establishing Inclusive Learning Environments. A teacher establishes, promotes and sustains inclusive learning environments where diversity is embraced and every student is welcomed, cared for, respected and safe. Achievement of this competency is demonstrated by indicators such as:
fostering in the school community equality and respect with regard to rights as provided for in the Alberta Human Rights Act and the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms;
using appropriate universal and targeted strategies and supports to address students' strengths, learning challenges and areas for growth;
communicating a philosophy of education affirming that every student can learn and be successful;
being aware of and facilitating responses to the emotional and mental health needs of students;
recognizing and responding to specific learning needs of individuals or small groups of students and, when needed, collaborating with service providers and other specialists to design and provide targeted and specialized supports to enable achievement of the learning outcomes;
employing classroom management strategies that promote positive, engaging learning environments;
incorporating students' personal and cultural strengths into teaching and learning; and
providing opportunities for student leadership.
- The goal of a culture of inclusion is to provide all students with the most appropriate learning environments and opportunities for them to best achieve their potential (Government of Alberta, 2010b).
- Inclusion means ensuring that each student belongs and receives a quality education no matter their ability, disability, language, cultural background, gender or age (Government of Alberta, 2010b).
- The teacher shares in the responsibility for the learning needs of all students, including those with diverse learning needs.
- The teacher thinks and acts in a way that demonstrates universal acceptance of, and belonging for all students.
- An inclusive culture (classroom, school, district) asks:
What does success look like for each student?
What will each student need to be successful?
What supports and services are required (universal, targeted, individualized) and how will we use them?
How will we measure success for each student? (Government of Alberta, 2010b).
- An inclusive culture requires: collaboration, shared leadership, a team-based approach, a link between school and community, persistence in finding solutions, a connection to family, an individual approach, a culturally appropriate approach, a focus on strengths, and shared decision making.