

089 - Haring Center – University of Washington, USA
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ONTACT
University of Washington, Haring Center
Ms. Ilene Schwartz
USA
http://haringcenter.org/+1 206 616 3450
ilene@uw.eduO
VERALL GOAL
/
MISSION
Presently children with disabilities often remain separated from their typically developing peers. Misbelieves like
inclusive education being a practice that only benefits children with disabilities and being a privilege rather than a basic
right for all children are prevalent in society. In the preschool program at Haring Center children with identified
disabilities, children who are at risk for disabilities due to economic disadvantage and typically developing children learn
and play together. A partnership with the local school district was established to provide special education services to
children with disabilities.
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HE SOLUTION THAT HAS BEEN DEVELOPED
The Early Learning Program at the Haring Center provides education to children from birth to the age of six. Children of
all abilities and from different backgrounds participate together in all activities while receiving specialized instruction.
The services also include parent education and family support. Another part of the program is dedicated to training the
next generation of educators including child care providers, early intervention providers, preschool teachers, special
education teachers, general educators and educational leaders. The aim of the training is to increase their
understanding for inclusive education and support them in implementing similar projects in their own community.
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OUNTRY IN WHICH IT WAS DEVELOPED
:
United States
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OUNTRY
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COUNTRIES IN WHICH IT IS OPERATING
:
United States
F
ACTS ABOUT SIZE AND SCOPE
Services to 250 children a year are provided, 40% of the children have identified disabilities.
Over 20 teachers graduate per year from the training and are prepared to work in inclusive settings. Over their
careers, each of these teachers impacts the lives of over 6000 children and families.
Families at the Haring Center do not pay for any services.