Inclusive Schools Week 2007 is just around the corner. There is no better time than now to host a meeting for the teachers, administrators, students and family members who want to be involved in planning for the celebration. It's also a great time to assess the inclusiveness of meetings, gatherings and other activities that happen throughout the school. Is our school so focused on meeting the educational needs of our students that we forget about accommodating the needs of our teachers, administrators and parents?

Here are some things to think about before organizing a school event to ensure that everyone is included in the festivities.

• When requesting that people R.S.V.P. for events make sure that you ask them to indicate whether they will need specific accommodations.
• Have a roster of foreign language and sign language interpreters on hand for events. Make sure that you book these services well in advance.
• Make printed material available in languages spoken in the community and in Braille.
• Be sure that the venue is wheelchair accessible.
• Keep some seating available near the front of the room for those with visual impairments and/or hearing impairments.
• Make assistive technology devices available (FM systems, Large print digital display boards, etc.) to participants.
• Have peer support or support provides for those people with disabilities who need physical and/or other kinds of assistance in order to participate.
• Brief the presenters about the needs of people in the audience. If they have never worked with interpreters, provide a brief explanation of protocol.
• Have a table near the entrance for people to request accommodations. Keep adaptive equipment and translated copies of materials at the table.