How to raise the achievement of all kids, from gifted tothose with severe disabilitiesThis book presents lessons learned from in-depth case studies ofsome of our most effective inclusive public schools. The authorsconclusively demonstrate that schools can educate students withmild and severe disabilities in general education classrooms byproviding special education services that link to and bolstergeneral education instruction. This goes beyond complying withSpecial Education law; having a truly inclusive environment raisesthe achievement level for all students and results in morecommitted and satisfied teachers.Insights shared from teachers, school leaders, parents, and thestudents themselves provide a path forward for anyone striving toImprove special education services. The authors reveal what theseexemplary schools do that makes them so successful, and provideadvice for readers who want to incorporate these practicesthemselves.* Hehir, former U.S. Office of Special Education (OSEP) Director,is a leading name in Special Education* Highlights the important relationships between administrators,teachers, and parents to foster maximum collaboration betweengeneral and special education* Includes information on committing to Universal Design forLearning (UDL) and Positive Behavior SupportsThis vital resource zeroes in on what excellent public schoolsdo differently to ensure all students succeed.

About the Authors viiPreface: On Ableism ixAcknowledgments xvIntroduction xviiPART ONE THE SCHOOLS AND THEIR LEADERS 1Chapter 1 The Schools 3Chapter 2 The Leaders 23PART TWO WHAT THEY DO DIFFERENTLY55Chapter 3 Collaborative Problem-Solving Organizations57Chapter 4 Relationships, School Culture, andAccountability 77Chapter 5 Universally Designed Schools 99PART THREE HOW TO CREATE MORE INCLUSIVE SCHOOLS125Chapter 6 Making Schools More Inclusive: Lessons for Educatorsand Parents 127PART FOUR THE BIG PICTURE OF SPECIALEDUCATION 157Chapter 7 How Education Policy Affects Our Schools159Chapter 8 Where Special Education Needs to Go179Afterword Transitioning to a Full Adult Life 201Appendix A Questions for Discussion 205Appendix B Information on the Research Study 209Notes 225Index 237To Dr. William Henderson: Teacher, mentor, and friend