Inclusion Looks Different For Different People

When Ruby was born I had these goals of her keeping up academically with her peers. Now that I look back on it, I am not exactly sure why. I think I wanted her to fit in, but quickly realized this world and it’s standards weren’t made for her. I also quickly realized how much this world needs her to NOT fit into the typical standards. She just started middle school this year…and do I expect her to be doing 6th grade math? Absolutley not. Do I expect her to be exposed to the same math, learning alongside her peers…but meeting her where SHE is at? ABSOLUTLEY. Do I want her to find community and feel loved and valued? ABSOLUTELY! Inclusion looks different for each person because every person is different! I think the key is finding the best balance of feeling loved, valued and included while also getting the supports needed to thrive. Learning from each other is how we continue to grow as humans, so having Ruby in the classroom benefits EVERYBODY