Instructional Costs of Inclusive Schooling

Abstract

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.