State awards school for inclusive education model

SPRINGFIELD, Ohio — Clark Early Learning Center has been awarded the state’s Inclusive Child Care Program designation, recognizing its approach of teaching children of all abilities side by side.

The Springfield preschool is the only program in Clark County to earn the designation. Principal Caitlin Smith said the recognition reflects years of work to ensure that every child is valued.

“We believe that what makes a community strong is when every child’s strengths and abilities are valued. And so we make sure we do that in every room in our building,” Smith said.

Teachers at Clark say the model is rooted in peer-to-peer learning. Nikki Adams, who has taught at the preschool for several years, explained that children often learn best from one another.

“There is no better teacher than a peer learning from another peer,” Adams said. “So, there are things that adults can attempt to model and mimic. But it does not hit or impact children the same as when a peer is helping them or teaching them or they’re learning beside them.”

Adams noted that children demonstrate similar developmental progress regardless of disability status, emphasizing that students with and without special needs benefit equally from learning alongside one another.

Smith added that Clark teachers undergo more training than the state requires and that families play an active role in classrooms, which she called the best testament to the school’s work.

A meta-analysis published by the National Library of Medicine, drawing on 80 years of research, found that children with disabilities experience both academic and social benefits when educated alongside their peers.

Educators at Clark say the benefits extend beyond academics. Adams said children develop empathy and pride that carry into their lives outside school.

“We see strengths and weaknesses, but it’s not as a positive or negative thing,” Adams said. “It’s just who each child is and who they are. And how we help them to become stronger and grow into greater citizens.”

Smith said the message from Clark’s experience is clear.

“Inclusion is possible. Inclusion is the best scenario,” Smith said. “When all students are included, everyone is more successful.”