Yes I Can Social Inclusion Program Curriculum

Developed by B. Abery, K. Schoeller, E. Simunds, V. Gaylord, and M. Fahnestock

A year-long, 20-module curriculum fostering the social inclusion of junior and senior high school students with disabilities in school and the community. Students with and without disabilities gather for weekly classroom instruction and community experiences that increase understanding of the social inclusion needs and challenges of persons with disabilities. During the program, each student with a disability is paired with another student who serves as an inclusion facilitator. The facilitator, a student with or without disabilities, serves as a support and community companion during weekly outings planned by each student pair. Participants learn to identify and remove or minimize barriers to social inclusion, creating opportunities for students with disabilities to participate in social activities during which friendships can naturally develop. The instructor’s manual includes detailed lesson plans, master copies of handouts and overheads, sample forms, and a list of videotapes used. It is designed to guide teachers and community organization staff in implementing the curriculum without additional specialized training. However, technical assistance and on-site training are available from the Yes I Can program staff at the Institute. (1997)

This curriculum is available in print for a fee. To order, please contact:

Institute on Community Integration Publications Office
109 Pattee Hall, 150 Pillsbury Drive SE
Minneapolis, MN 55455
(612) 624-4512
icipub@umn.edu

Additional Information

For further information on the Yes I Can program content or instructor training and technical assistance, contact:

Matt Ziegler, Yes I Can Program Coordinator

612-626-7322 • ziegl010@umn.edu

Brian Abery, Yes I Can Program Director

612-625-5592 • abery001@umn.edu

Institute on Community Integration

University of Minnesota

111 Pattee Hall

150 Pillsbury Dr. SE

Minneapolis, MN 55455