Schools and communities around the world celebrated the 8th Annual Inclusive Schools Week during the the first week of December, 2008.  The theme for the 2008 celebration was "Together We Learn Better: Inclusive Schools Benefit All Children".  Here are some of the highlights of Inclusive Schools Week 2008:

School and Community Celebrations - Each year, more and more schools around the world are helping to raise awareness and promote inclusive educational practices by celebrating Inclusive Schools Week.  Visit Inclusive Schools Week 2008 Celebrations to read more about some of the events and activities that schools and communities hosted in celebration of the 2008 Week.  You can also check out the Celebration Ideas section of the ISN website and purchase ISN products now in preparation for your 2009 celebration!

Inclusive Schools Network Webinar – As part of the 2008 Week, ISN hosted its first webinar on the topic “Reflecting Upon the NCTM Focal Points and the Role of the Special Educator in Today's Mathematics Classroom” with Dr. Lisa Dieker, Professor of Exceptional Education at the University of Central Florida, and Dr. Hank Kepner, President of the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM).  This event was recorded and can be viewed online.

ISN Discussion Forum – ISN launched its online Forum during the 2008 Week, providing a venue for discussion about the the Week and people's celebration plans.  Visit the ISN Forum any time of year to network and share ideas, resources and information with educators, families and others interested in inclusive educational practices.

“Best Ideas for Inclusive Schools” Contest – For Inclusive Schools Week, the American Federation of Teachers (AFT) sponsored a contest to highlight effective inclusive educational practices in elementary, middle and high schools around the United States.  Read about the Contest Winners and vote for a Grand Prize Finalist on the AFT website.

States' Recognition - This year, the Week was officially recognized for the first time in Minnesota by Proclamation of Governor Tim Pawlenty.  Minnesota joins a number of other states which have recognized the Week over the years, including Michigan, which recognized the Week in 2008 for the fourth consecutive year by Resolution of the State Board of Education.

Including Samuel Film Screening and Discussion – ISN sponsored a film screening and discussion on December 1st with filmmaker Dan Habib about his documentary Including Samuel.  This film examines issues related to inclusive education and honestly portrays the experiences of Habib’s son Samuel, who has cerebral palsy, and four other individuals with disabilities.  Read more about the film, check out video clips of the discussion session, and order your copy of Including Samuel today!

The 2008 Inclusive Schools Week was a great success due to the commitment of schools and organizations all over the world.

Thank you so much for your participation and support!

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