What is your educational background?
I received my Bachelor's in social work from Washburn. Psychology was my minor.

What other experiences, or staff development has prepared you for inclusion?
During my employment with the Menninger Foundation (Projects with Industry) I trained adults with disabilities to complete maid and laundry work. I was also employed for Kansas Elks Training Center for the Handicapped where I matched adults with disabilities with employment opportunities in the community. In both of these jobs I worked with adults who were disabled and typically developing regarding acceptance of each persons strengths, limitations, and the overall goal of accomplishing the task.

What is your job role?
Supervision of two social workers and one social work intern. I am responsible for agency compliance with the Head Start Program Performance standards relating to Family an Community Partnerships; more specifically family goal setting, making appropriate referrals, crisis and selection of children. I also provide social services to families and support education staff.

What is your role regarding the inclusive component of the program?
In out agency, social work staff have the initial contact with parents during the recruitment process. We encourage enrollment of special needs children by recruiting through our community "Check your Child" screenings. I assist families in participating in screenings and evaluation by providing needed support (phoning for appointment, transportation, etc.). I participate in regular family-child case management staffings and IEP team meetings, and provide social services, as needed, to families of children with special needs.

Do teachers help children with disabilities and typically developing peers become friends?
Yes, education staff regularly encourage all children to become friends and helpers to each other.

How are parents of children with special needs included to participate and get involved with the school?
In my current placement, the teaching staff is ideal - All parents are encouraged to participate in Parent Policy Council workshops and school activities by being invited by letter, flyers, and personal contact. They are encouraged to volunteer in the classroom. All parents may receive all the services Head Start has to offer.