MHCBE is committed to the philosophy of inclusion which is founded on the belief that all students should be educated in neighbourhood schools, in regular classrooms, and in age-appropriate settings to the maximum extent possible. Inclusive education systems are ones that develop and support flexible and responsive learning environments that can adapt to the changing needs of learners. Inclusion is not just about learners with special education codes. It is an attitude and approach that embraces diversity and learner differences and promotes equal opportunities for all learners.
In Alberta, educating students with special education needs in inclusive settings is the first placement option to be considered by school boards in consultation with parents and, when appropriate, students (Standards for Special Education, Amended June 2004). MHCBE’s Learning Services department uses Alberta Education’s principles of inclusive education to continually move toward the vision of an education system in which all students are successful in this first placement option.
Alberta Education Links:
Standards for Special Education, Amended June 2004
Standards for the Provision of Early Childhood Special Education, September 2006
