It shouldn't be this hard. Mrs. Lesneski certainly made a spectacle of herself and drew as many detractors as supporters in her highly public display. But she says she spent three years battling with the district and working through the system without results. After 19 days lashed to a flagpole she got action. Meeting the needs of children with serious disabilities is much more difficult, requiring extra planning and time, extra accommodation and extra money.
Districts are right to proceed with caution.
If done without care and with insufficient funds, such efforts can be disastrous for everyone involved. Done well, it can be an enriching experience for the whole class. But inclusion is not about enhancing the sensitivities and adaptability of the students who will come in contact with the special-needs child, although it can do that. It is about giving everyone the thorough and efficient education he deserves.