Inclusive Supports and Strategies to Increase Opportunities to Respond for All Learners

Many general education teachers have indicated they do not feel well prepared to meet the academic and behavioral needs of students with extensive support needs (ESN). Although teachers cite limited training, preparation, and experience as notable barriers to general education placements for students with ESN, the opportunity and success of the inclusion of students with ESN in general education, should never be dependent on the previous preparation of teachers. To address and reduce some of the identified barriers, this article proposes ways in which many strategies commonly used for instruction with students without disabilities can readily be adapted to allow not only access for students with disabilities but to also promote active engagement and progress towards learning the general education content standards.