EC Summit 2016
A {R}evolutionary Approach to Inclusion in an Age of Accountability
Dr. Kristie-Pretti Frontczak
KeyStone, Colorado
June 13 –15, 2016
After 25 years of the Americans with Disabilities Act, 40 years of the Individuals
with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), and 50 years of Head Start, are we any closer
to realizing inclusion as a right for all? Are we any closer to meeting the diverse
needs of our youngest citizens?
During the 2 ½ day Early Childhood Summit, participants spent time "reimagining,"
"reinventing," and "rebirthing" ideas to ensure meaningful and inclusive practices
for all. They explored solutions to counter the push down of practices that have little
relevance or impact on early development and learning. Specifically, they explored
the "real" common core, which includes 32 essence attributes deemed necessary for
an inclusive society. Lastly, they dismantled the idea that "readiness" is a trait,
and rather, help others to see readiness as something which begins before the age
of five and includes ready families, ready schools, and ready communities.
Participants had the opportunity to learn from and engage with Dr. Kristie-Pretti
Frontczak as she discussed these issues in theory, policy, and practice and the implemention
of inclusive practices.
The summit was attended by Early learning professionals including early childhood
educators, early intervention/special education providers, child care providers, early
childhood administrators, special education administrators, and family members.
