New Report: Leading for Inclusive Education in Washington Schools
The Washington Association of School Administrators (WASA) and the Association of Washington School Principals (AWSP), in partnership with the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction’s Inclusionary Practices Technical Assistance Network (IPTN), are proud to share the findings of a statewide study on leadership for inclusive education.
This collaborative project was designed to better understand how school and district leaders are creating, sustaining, and scaling systems of inclusion for all students, particularly those with disabilities. Through surveys and interviews with leaders from across Washington, the study surfaces both the promising practices and persistent challenges shaping this important work.
What the Study Found
Key findings point to the vital role leaders play in:
- Modeling equity-centered mindsets
- Aligning professional development with system goals
- Building shared ownership across roles
- Using data that reflects student experiences and belonging
- Sustaining inclusive systems through coherent, strategic leadership
The report also offers actionable recommendations for leadership development, professional learning, and system alignment, and will inform future statewide efforts by our agencies supported by the IPTN.
Why It Matters
Inclusive education isn’t a program—it’s a way of doing school. This study reinforces the idea that meaningful, lasting change begins with leadership and is sustained through collaboration, reflection, and intentional action
View the Full Report
For questions or more information, please contact:
Amy Wright, Ed.D. (WASA IPTN Director)
Ashley Barker (AWSP IPTN Director)