Inclusion isn’t just good for a child with a disability — it’s good for everyone.
In summer 2000, 4-year-old Angie Monzon’s story was highlighted in Lanterman Regional Center’s “Viewpoint” Newsletter.
As a child with cerebral palsy, Angie had been integrated into a neighborhood day care and the whole community was better for it.
When Angie was fully included at LA Family School, her classmates learned to communicate with her and look out for her, and her best friend Gala was always nearby.
The school’s Director reported that, “To prepare for her (Angie’s) arrival, staff met with parents and did a lot of preparation with the youngsters themselves…It’s been just extraordinary how they’ve adapted.”
Angie’s teacher noted that it was one of the most rewarding experiences of her life. “I have no words to describe how wonderful it’s been to have her in my group.” That’s what she said about having a child with a disability in her classroom for the first time.
Angie thrived. Her classmates grew. And her Service Coordinator, Lourdes, says that Angie’s mom couldn’t have been happier. This is what inclusion looks like — and it’s been at the heart of Lanterman’s work for 60 years.