When thinking about disability integration, educators should view the student as:

• A. Only their disability.
• B. Their grade level only.
• C. One part of who they are; treat them as a person first.
• D. A problem to solve.

Answer: (C)

The main idea is that students with disabilities deserve to be seen as whole people, with many identities, strengths, and goals beyond their disability. This person-first, holistic view is essential for true inclusion: it honors their dignity and supports participation in the same curriculum with appropriate accommodations and supports. When you view a student as one part of who they are, you’re more likely to collaborate with families, tailor learning to their interests, and help them access the learning environment alongside their peers.

Choosing to focus only on the disability reduces the person to a label, which can undermine belonging and engagement. Focusing only on grade level risks missing individual learning needs and supports that help the student access the curriculum. Seeing the student as a problem to solve frames them as an obstacle rather than a learner with rights and strengths.