Afterschool Supporting Students with Disabilities and Other Special Needs

Based on the Department of Education's National Center for Education Statistics' most recent report, 13 percent of public school students approximately 6.4 million students were identified as having a disability or other special need and served by a federally supported special education program. Research shows that, compared to students without disabilities, students with disabilities and other special needs face additional challenges as they move through school and into adulthood. However, inclusive learning environments where students of all abilities can take part in meaningful learning experiences together support positive growth and development, helping students of all abilities improve academically, socially and emotionally. Afterschool programs create a safe space where students of all abilities can learn and grow side-by-side, respecting and appreciating one another's similarities and differences. This issue brief highlights the valuable source of support afterschool programs offer to students of all abilities and presents examples of programs that provide an inclusive environment that fosters a sense of belonging and promotes the overall success of every student.