10 Reasons to Support Inclusive School Communities for ALL Students

Inclusive learning environments provide students with and without disabilities many opportunities to establish relationships with their peers. Such relationships form the beginnings of friendships that are a source of fun and enjoyment, and an essential source of emotional support during challenging times. When considering what contributes most to one’s quality of life, “friends” often appears toward the top of the list. Therefore, the opportunity to connect with a diverse group of peers is an important outcome of inclusion for all students.

Related Resources

Article: Inclusion, Friendships, and the Power of Peers

Tool: The Power of Peers: Peer Engagement Implementation Guides

Article: TIP #1: How Peers Can Support AAC Use by Students with Significant Communication Needs