Least Restrictive Environment

Spotlight on California: Creative Inclusion Program Options

By Kathleen C. Sadao, Ed.D. Program Specialist, SEEDS Project

Through the auspices of the SEEDS Project, Sacramento County Office of Education supported by the California Department of Education, Special Education Division, the following stories highlight the efforts of three Visitation Sites providing exemplary models of system change efforts to increase inclusive options for young children with disabilities in preschool programs. The stories provide a glimpse into the process by which each program generated new ideas to influence change in their communities serving young children. Although each program offers a distinct approach to increasing inclusive opportunities in their locales, there are key indicators evident across programs. These considerations are reflective in guidance for interagency collaborative practice (Interagency Collaboration Handbook, 2007).

With the interagency collaborative approach as a framework, the stories that unfold capture each program’s people and efforts to better serve all children in California communities. Enjoy the stories and browse through the SEEDS Web site to select, receive technical assistance support, and apply one or more of the models in your programs.