Benefits of Inclusion

When Catholic Schools are able to support students with disabilities or learning challenges, the benefits stretch well beyond the individual child and reach all members of the school, parish and community. The ministry of the FIRE Foundation of Northern Kentucky is to support Catholic Schools so they may obtain the resources necessary to educate all children.

BENEFITS FOR THE

INDIVIDUAL

Access to religion classes, weekly Mass, and sacraments and faith based education
Strengthens family ties by attending same school as siblings
A sense of belonging to the church community
Opportunities for friendship and improved social development
Access to peer role models

CLASSMATES

Gain respect for diversity and increase empathy skills
Accommodations made for students with disabilities benefit all students
Provides leadership opportunities as role model
Develop a sense of empowerment to make a difference in the world
Reduce prejudice against differences and contribute to a more diverse society

FAMILIES

Full acceptance into the parish/school community, reducing isolation
Continuity between faith values and educational needs
Reduces stress with fewer schedules and streamlined activities
Assists families in religious education for the child with Special Needs

SCHOOL

Increase diversity and empathy for individual differences
Opportunities for corporal works of mercy/service
Improved teaching skills/knowledge/ strategies for teachers that benefit all children
Enjoy the richness of character of individuals with disabilities

PARISH

Opportunities to evangelize to individuals with disabilities and their families
Strengthens the parish community through diversity
Develop empathy within the parish community for individual differences
Opportunities for corporal works of mercy
Enjoy the richness of character that individuals with disabilities bring