Inclusion is not a place. Inclusion is about belonging.
A Statewide Early Learning Initiative Addressing Systemic Barriers to Equitable Education Opportunities for Young Children Experiencing Disability
Several state education agencies make up the early learning system: the Department of Early Learning and Care, the Oregon Department of Education, and the Oregon Department of Human Services. Together with family advocacy networks and policy change makers, Oregon commits to providing technical assistance for implementing, sustaining, and scaling-up high-quality inclusive early learning and care settings. This critical work joins existing promotion, prevention, and intervention efforts to empower professionals, parents, and community members, and is informed by the
Policy on Inclusion of Children with Disabilities in Early Childhood Programs (2023)removed
This work is made possible by the tireless efforts and unwavering commitment of families, community partners, early learning providers, and early intervention staff. For more details about State and Regional Partners, view our partners’ pages. This coalition of change makers continues to grow. Please contact Oregon Department of Education staff and partners for more information on how to get involved.
At Oregon Department of Education, we believe:
- Disability is to be appreciated as a natural part of the human experience that makes our families and communities stronger.
- Families have the right to enter relationships with early care and education providers trusting their child will be welcomed, loved, and seen in all their human dignity, including their culture, race, and disability.
- All learning environments for young children and their families should be inclusive, culturally responsive, and identity affirming.
- Every child should learn and thrive together with their peers, friends, and neighbors.
- Children achieve their best self when nurtured by empowered families, providers, and communities.
- The Early Care and Education system is enhanced and strengthened through a network of professionals, parents, and community members.
The Agency's mission is to foster equity and excellence for every learner through collaboration with families, educators, partners, and communities.
Oregon Early Childhood Inclusion Initiative supports implementation of key frameworks that have demonstrated effectiveness in facilitating the development of early learning environments that are culturally responsive, inclusive, and identity-affirming.
Innovations:
This initiative is beginning to scale-up. Currently 10 community teams made up of regional early learning partners, families, and providers have been identified and are developing strong community leadership teams (sometimes referred to as community inclusion teams or CITs) to guide implementation of effective frameworks for inclusive education.
Training and technical assistance is available at the local, regional, and state level. Please reach out to find more information about trainers and coaches in your region.
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Acknowledgements:
This work is made possible by the tireless efforts and unwavering commitment of families, community partners, early learning providers, and early intervention staff. This coalition of change makers continues to grow. Contact ODE staff if you are interested in getting involved.