The simultaneous growth of exceptional and regular students in inclusive schools is an opportunity to learn mutual social and educational skills. According to Salar Ghasemi, the head of the Exceptional Education Organization of the country, nearly 100,000 exceptional students have returned to school since the beginning of this October to receive education alongside their regular peers.
Inclusive Schools and Student Composition
Inclusive schools are those where regular and exceptional students study together. According to Ghasemi's information, 83,000 students are enrolled in exceptional schools and 17,000 in inclusive schools. He also pointed out that there are students in these schools who use wheelchairs or can read with the help of special tools. These students have normal intelligence and can succeed in regular educational environments as well.
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Assessment of Talent and Physical Readiness
The Exceptional Education Organization conducts assessments of academic talent and physical readiness to identify the educational needs of children upon their entry to school. These assessments are currently conducted for first-grade children, but Ghasemi announced plans to reduce the age of these assessments to 4 and even 3 years. This action aims to identify children with special needs early and provide suitable educational opportunities for them.
In addition to initial assessments, the overall approach of the Exceptional Education Organization emphasizes starting skill training and vocational education from the elementary level. This approach intends not to postpone readiness for entering the profession until high school. In total, 25,000 staff, trainers, and teachers are engaged in the education of children with special needs.
Increase in Autism Statistics and School Development
In the past decade, the statistics related to autism in Iran have shown an upward trend. Ghasemi announced that there are currently 4,000 autistic students in the country and 57 special autism schools are currently operating. To address these needs, new schools are also planned for construction. In the past year, 15 standard autism schools have been inaugurated.
Free Transportation for Exceptional Students
The government and municipalities have taken measures to facilitate the transportation of exceptional children. This year, the budget for school transportation has increased, and according to Ghasemi, 50% has been added to the transportation budget for students. Additionally, the Tehran municipality has allocated 400 billion tomans for school transportation. These actions demonstrate support for children with special needs and efforts to provide suitable educational conditions for them.
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