Washington, DCSpecial education is often viewed narrowly – as something expensive and designed to support only a specific group of students. But in reality, special education strengthens entire classrooms and schools, families and communities. Across the United States, one in seven students receive special education services.
We all know children with learning differences, developmental delays, physical disabilities, invisible disabilities, or those on the autism spectrum. These learners often require additional supports to reach their potential. When these crucial supports are in place, the impact can be transformative for the learner. Equally important are the positive and often unseen ripples for others in their classrooms and communities.
In Morocco, the Ministry of Education developed sign language lessons for children with who are deaf and hearing impaired. Teachers trained in sign language instruction reported that mainstream learners and those with other learning differences also benefited from and enjoyed learning language instruction, especially their neurodiverse students. This unintended benefit is still talked about years later. Programs like Head Start integrate inclusive learning into their classrooms. Recent studies show that Head Start programs have a positive impact on school readiness of preschool children, particularly but not only for struggling learners who may have invisible learning differences or other learning challenges.
Students with special needs who receive timely, well-designed support are more likely to meet grade-level expectations, graduate, and thrive in adulthood. And it’s not just about academic outcomes for learners with disabilities. Those who learn alongside special needs students have been shown – repeatedly and all over the globe – to also benefit from inclusive learning environments, and likewise benefit from greater confidence, an increased sense of belonging and agency.
The Power of Inclusive Learning
When schools and communities invest in robust special education systems, they’re not just checking a box. They’re creating environments where all students can learn more effectively. Strong special education programs work towards:
- Equipping teachers with strategies that benefit all learners.
- Integrating flexible, differentiated instruction that supports the unique learning needs of each and every student.
- Fostering environments where students develop collaboration and leadership skills.
- Identifying and addressing learning needs early, setting students up for long-term success in school and the labor market.
- Strengthening relationships between schools, families, and communities.
When we invest in special education, we invest in stronger classrooms, better teaching, and a brighter future for all our kids and their families. Educators understand this. Families experience it. Communities are transformed by it. And as districts and organizations embrace helping all kids learn, we move closer to a future where every student is supported to reach their full potential.