Kids Together wants to help connect people that are dedicated to creating inclusion in schools and communities. Our focus is on acceptance, supporting individuals in reaching thier potential, but not trying to fix, change or cure people in any manner. There are many topics that can be discussed to create inclusion, but diagnosis is not one of them. What matters is each unique individual, their personality, wants, interests, needs, situations and the people and environments they interact with. Everyone is first and foremost a person. A disability is one characteristic that does not define the whole person.

I envision this networking community as a tool that will assist people in overcoming barriors, as a means to share ideas and solutions, and as a resource to encourage and inspire that will help spread and expand the possibilities for inclusive practices that already exist. Inclusion isn't a "one size fits all " as some may claim, it really is a much more individualized, rewarding and meaningful path than segregation or dumping someone in a situation without appropriate planning or supports. It's also about building genuine relationships and acceptance and very much a civil rights issue. The "separate but equal" statement from Brown v Brown does not just hold true for some, but for all those who are treated less because of differences.

This is a safe place to start with the presumption that inclusion is the right thing to do. This is "not" a place to "debate" inclusion. Our goal is to figure out together how to make it possible for all.

My personal experience, with my own son, has taught me that anything is possible if you have a vision and focus on the desired outcomes. My son has a terrific personality, a great sense of humor, and a keen interest in the history of animation. When he was little, the focus from others was always on his deficits. We were told time and time again what he couldn't do, wouldn't be able to do, and where he couldn't be. He is now working on IEP and transition goals on a college campus!

When he entered school we were told he would be teased, about how the gap would get larger, how he could not work on goals in the general classes, and lots more. I am happy to say that with adaptations, supports and assistive technology he was included throughout his education. He rode the regular bus, went on field trips, did a senior project, attended junior and senior proms, and walked at graduation. And yes, he also has a lot of needs, but being included helped him learn to function in a different way using his communication device to speak, adaptions, technology or other supports for fine and gross motor skills. My son's story is not the only success story, they are out there and need to be shared and heard. Our hope is that the success stories will overflow this networking community and become a valued resource to many, so welcome and start sharing!!