What is "Celebrate Diverse Abilities?"
According to the National Center for Education Statistics, nearly half of students with "disabilities" spend 80 percent or more of the day in a general education classroom.*
This site was designed for teachers and other school personnel in both special and general education settings to foster the creation of classroom communities where all children are valued and successful learners. I hope to provide information and support for general education teachers in inclusive settings, resources for both general and special education teachers, and improve my own knowledge through research and collaboration.
The title, "Celebrate Diverse Abilities," was chosen for a variety of reasons. As I learn more about special education and related issues, I have become less comfortable using the term "disability." All of us are different in various ways, and I believe that we should view our students as unique individuals: as having differences, not "deficits." I believe that I am not a skilled artist or writer, but I do not consider myself as "art disabled" or "creative writing disabled." I believe that we should apply the same line of thinking to students who think, learn, move, etc. differently.
However, I think that attitude is more important than terminology. If we approach diverse students with the attitude that they can learn and that they are valued members of the classroom community, all students can benefit. When we focus on ability, I believe that we can encourage students to higher levels of achievement and self-esteem.
Thank you so much for visiting and I hope you'll come back soon!
"By raising our voices together, we are creating a world that celebrates children for their abilities." - Diane Bubel
* Source: National Center for Education Statistics: http://nces.ed.gov/fastfacts/display.asp?id=59
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