TASH/Wal-Mart Breakthroughs in Inclusive Education Awards Research demonstrates that children with disabilities who attend school in an inclusive setting alongside their peers without disabilities perform better and go on to lead more productive, independent lives – and educational outcomes are better for all students. To recognize local school systems and the professionals who are leading the way in guiding students with disabilities toward academic and social success, TASH has partnered with Wal-Mart to present the Breakthroughs in Inclusive Education Awards program, currently in its second year. Purpose: To honor important and courageous contributions of individuals and school districts in advancing inclusive education and equitable opportunities for students pre-school through 12th grade, particularly those with the most significant disabilities and support needs. TASH recognizes that the path to full inclusion can be challenging, depending on the local community, state and local leadership and other factors. Our goal is to highlight contributions to progress along the path, in keeping with recognized quality practices. Awardees will set a high standard for innovation and excellence in inclusive education for others to emulate. TASH will recognize awardees who set a high standard for innovation and excellence in inclusive education in the following categories: Most Promising Inclusive School Inclusive Education Advocate of the Year Inclusive Education Administrator of the Year Inclusive Education Teacher of the Year Most Promising Inclusive School District What Do We Mean by Inclusive Education? TASH is a leader in the inclusive education movement, and has facilitated the publication of years of best practice research and promoted inclusive practices since 1975. Awards: All awardees will receive a free trip to attend the TASH 2008 Conference and Awards Ceremony in Nashville, Tenn., December 3-6, 2008, and will be recognized in the conference program, on the TASH website and at the closing general session. Awardees will receive a complimentary conference registration, roundtrip airfare and three nights lodging for one individual per award category. Winners will receive a commemorative plaque, and TASH will promote their accomplishments to the trade media and local press. Submission Deadline: To nominate an individual, school or district, please download the nomination form (.doc) and submit it (by email ONLY) to Liz Towles-Reeves. In addition, you may email or mail your two-page narrative and other supporting materials by September 20, 2008, to: Liz Towles-Reeves, TASH Awards Committee University of Kentucky 1 Quality Street, Suite 722 Lexington, KY 40507 Partners: Organizations involved in promoting the TASH / Wal-Mart Breakthroughs in Inclusive Education Awards include: The Advocacy Institute, The Beach Center, Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates, Inc. (COPAA), the Inclusive Schools Network, National Association of State Directors of Special Education (NASDSE), and National Institute of Urban School Improvement. Philanthropy at Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. (NYSE: WMT) and its foundation are proud to support the charitable causes that are important to customers and associates in their own neighborhoods. Through its philanthropic programs and partnerships, the company supports initiatives focused on enhancing opportunities in education, job skills training, sustainability, and health and human services. In 2007, Wal-Mart, Sam’s Club and the Wal-Mart Foundation gave $296 million to communities across the United States.
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