This edition of Inclusion of Learners with Exceptionalities
in Canadian Schools has completed the passing of the
torch. Nancy Hutchinson, who was the sole author
on the first five editions and lead author on the sixth edition has retired from writing the book. Jacqueline Specht,
who joined Nancy as co-author on the sixth edition, wrote
this new edition alone but on the wings of her mentor and
friend. For that reason, Nancy continues to be listed as an
author, as she was instrumental in creating the structure
upon which this seventh edition is built. It has been a humbling experience. During the process of writing, we learn
by doing background research in areas with which we are
less familiar; by discussing current issues with colleagues,
graduate students, parents, teacher candidates, and individuals with exceptionalities. And, always, we learn by
challenging our assumptions about teaching children and
adolescents. When we accept the challenges of teaching
students with exceptionalities in inclusive settings, we
must be prepared to challenge assumptions about what
they can and cannot do and find new ways to help them
reach their potential. We hope this book will help you challenge your own assumptions and reflect critically on what
it means to include ALL students in the classroom.