Mathematics education

Demography

Social psychology

Inclusion (mineral)

Economics

Special education

School district

Psychology

Sociology

Longitudinal data

Medicine

Economic growth

Medical education

Socioeconomics

Deleted Journal

Relatively little is known about the relative costs of inclusion, particularly as they compare to more prevalent self-contained and/or segregated out-of-district placement options. This investigation was conducted to report longitudinal cost data associated with one district's evolution toward more inclusive schooling practices. Results of archival data analysis revealed: (a) that District costs were significantly less on an annual basis relative to comparable costs for out-of-district services; (b) a significant increase in the number of students with severe disabilities over the 5-year period, with District costs still well below that of out-of-district services; (c) a doubling in contractual (related services) costs over the 5-year period, linked most directly to the dramatic increase in the number of students with more intensive needs; and (d) a significant increase in the number of and reliance on para-professional staff for supporting classified and nonclassified students in general education.

Instructional Costs of Inclusive Schooling