The new parents guide on inclusive teaching is now available on the internet. The brochure was presented on 3 August 2009 by Karin Evers-Meyer, the Federal Commissioner for Matters relating to Disabled Persons, and by Bundesarbeitsgemeinschaft Gemeinsam leben – gemeinsam lernen e. V. (Federal association living together – learning together). This guide on joint teaching for parents of disabled children contains information on the existing possibilities of inclusive teaching in each Federal State as well as advice from parents who have made experiences with joint teaching.

“Joint teaching, individual promotion and growing up in diversity are of benefit to all children – with and without disabilities. Many parents of disabled children have the desire that their child is given the possibility to attend school together with his/her sisters and brothers and the neighbours’ children”, said Karin Evers-Meyer. Camilla Dawletschin-Linder, the first Chairwoman of Bundesarbeitsgemeinschaft Gemeinsam leben – gemeinsam lernen e. V., added: “Many parents of disabled children wish first of all that their children are credited with many capabilities and with unexpected qualities. The reduced offer of special schools forces them to face limits.”

This request is supported by Article 24 of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. The Convention demands joint teaching of children with and without disabilities.

The parents guide is available on the web pages of the Federal Commissioner for Matters relating to Disabled Persons and of the Bundesarbeitsgemeinschaft Gemeinsam leben – gemeinsam lernen e. V.