SpecialQuestis helping states and communities make a

difference for inclusion

ChildrenChildren and and FamiliesFamilies are are

Counting on Counting on USUS

Nine states have made major policy changes that support high quality inclusive practices… directly affecting

services to young children with disabilities and their families.

The message is now consistent across state agencies, advocacy groups, families, and higher education.

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EnhancingEnhancing ConfidenceConfidence andand

CompetenceCompetence

At least six states have developed and are implementing

cross-sector, regional professional development

systems to support inclusion.

As a result of training, more professionals are better prepared to include children with disabilities in their programs.

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EmbracingEmbracing PossibilitiesPossibilities

Nine states are working with faculty to incorporate the SpecialQuest approach

and materials into college and university coursework …including required coursework and courses that articulate between community college and four-year institutions of higher education.

I have been teaching for 30 years …I will never teach the same way again.“

FamilyFamily PartnershipsPartnerships

Family Family Leadership Leadership

Family Members are actively engaged in a variety of

leadership activities, drawing upon their experiences and perspectives

to provide input for decision-making.

Having families involved helps keep the team grounded and reminded of the reasons for this work…“

Together Together We’re We’re BetterBetter

Twenty-one communities are providing input and

feedback to the State Leadership Teams regarding

local implications of state level

policies and regulations.

It’s valuable to stay linked to “real” programs and providers who are serving children.“

Inclusion –Inclusion –BENEFITS BENEFITS forfor

EveryoneEveryone

All community teams are making significant

progress in implementing practices to

support inclusion.

SpecialQuest has moved inclusion to the forefront of agency agendas. “

EveryoneBELONGS

In most communities, families are experiencing

better coordination of referrals and service delivery, as

well as receiving more comprehensive services in inclusive

environments, such as Child Care.

I understand inclusion from the parent’s perspective, and have seen and experienced positive outcomes for children that result from inclusive programs.

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Using the Using the SpecialQuestSpecialQuest APPROACH, APPROACH, ResourcesResources andand MaterialsMaterials

Community teams are conducting trainings using the

SpecialQuest approach and materials in their programs and communities, state and regional

conferences, professional development networks, and

with other groups, such as pediatricians.

Our local community has developed a network of people who are working together to bring SpecialQuest to a variety of programs and professional development opportunities.

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RelationshipsRelationships are are the the KEYKEY

SpecialQuest just knocked it out of the park for me…you have to experience it…it’s like a light switch that’s turned on.

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www.specialquest.org