| The purpose of this study was to examine how elementary principals utilize inclusionary practices. Eight elementary principals were interviewed from school districts in Allegheny County. The sample represented six different school districts.;Data was collected using interviews based on information obtained in the review of literature about inclusion. Content analysis was used to analyze the data. Common themes were drawn from the transcripts and reported in two parts: Part 1: Parts of the Visionary Document of the school districts' strategic plan, three parts were included: mission statement, belief statements and the membership of the steering committee for the strategic plan. In Part 2: Issues of Implementation of Inclusionary Process six themes were developed: school philosophy and practices, modification, roles and responsibilities, collaboration/teamwork, curricular, staff development.;The results of the study showed that in the area of the vision statement, belief statements and committee members there were marked similarities. The similar themes that exited in the vision statements were educating the students for the future, maximizing student learning potential and emphasizing that all children can achieve at high levels. The school districts' belief statements were aligned in similar areas also.;In describing their experience in creating an inclusive school the principals gave evidence of having similar perceptions in three of the six common themes. The stronger similarities were in the principals' responses to school philosophy and practices, modifications, and staff development. The principals differed more in their perceptions of the common themes of roles and responsibilities, collaboration/teamwork, and curriculum.;Based on the available literature and interviews, implications for school personnel are discussed in the study as well as recommendations for further research. |
