Public education is a fundamental right of every child. All children are recognized as unique individuals and are entitled to an equal opportunity to obtain an education. Neither their abilities nor their disabilities determine any student’s value. It is of the utmost importance for our society to value and provide for those less capable, especially disabled children. If others observe that disabled children are capable, wishing to learn, and participating in a general, inclusive classroom environment, they will have less fear of including and incorporating them into society on an everyday basis.  In return, productive and happier people will reward our society.  With accommodations, resources and the means for disabled people to participate, fewer handicaps will develop which hinder both the disabled and society in general. There are many aspects of educating exceptional learners in my philosophy including inclusion, classroom management, my teaching environment, open communication, and my role as a general education teacher.

Keeping an open contact with parents and all staff is extremely important to the success of the exceptional and non-exceptional learner. Parents are another key factor in helping a student succeeds. Keeping lines of communication open, and knowing the parent or parents name is also important, as well as being respectful and understanding. I will encourage them to be active in the education of their child. The parents or parent need to be informed as to what is going on in their child’s education. A great example is if the student comes home from school, and needs help with an assignment, parents should feel free to call me for help at anytime. Students need to feel they are supported from every angle, and know that they are cared about by many people.  The parents are the experts on the child and should be included in all aspects of the education of the disabled student.  I will look to the parents or guardians of the child to learn what skills the child needs and get insight into the best teaching approach.  I will encourage parents to become involved in advocacy groups.

All children can learn, even though it is at different rates and in different ways.  I will seek to provide an open, accepting and safe environment for all students to learn.  All children in the class will be give equal opportunities and I will guide the students in this principle.  I will foster respect in the classroom for all individuals.  I will give increased attention to racial, ethnic and linguistic diversity in hopes of preventing inappropriate identification and mislabeling.  I will not label children except when necessary to communicate with other professionals concerning the child. As a general classroom teacher, I will seek the guidance of experts in special education in guiding my teaching of disabled children.