Inclusion Overview

Neighborhood Inclusion within Newton Public Schools Grades K-5

Student Needs: Elementary school students receiving supports through the Neighborhood Inclusion program have intensive needs, such as developmental delays, intellectual impairments, physical impairments, emotional and behavioral challenges or other disabilities.

Overview: Inclusion is a belief that everyone belongs and everyone benefits. This educational model challenges schools to meet the needs of all students by educating learners with disabilities alongside their non‐disabled peers. It is based on a belief that all children can learn together in the same schools and classrooms with appropriate supports. The environment necessary to nurture and foster inclusion is built upon a shared belief system between general and special education, and a willingness to merge the talents and resources of teachers.

Mission: The mission of the schools is to maximize the potential and independence of each student. An inclusive education helps prepare students with disabilities for an integrated adult life and builds understanding and acceptance within the broader community.

Curriculum: A critical component of inclusion is to provide students with disabilities access to the curriculum, regardless of the level. Children learn skills best in the natural classroom environment where opportunities for diverse experiences are available for all students. All programming is individualized to meet the student’s unique needs. Curriculum is created by modifying the Newton Public Schools grade level curriculum as called for by the student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP), including functional, daily care and vocational skills training as necessary.

Special Programming: All programming is highly individualized to meet the student’s unique needs. In order to meet their educational and therapeutic needs, students may follow an individualized schedule.

Related Services students may receive include:

 Speech and Language Therapy  Occupational Therapy  Physical Therapy

 Adaptive Physical Education  Psychology and Social Work  Vision Service

 Orientation and Mobility Training  Deaf/Hard of Hearing Services  Specialized Curriculum

 Community/Vocational Training  Applied Behavior Analysis Services

Newton Public Schools- Guide to Special Education