Enhancing Integration during the Summer: Combined Educational and Community Recreation Options for Students with Severe Disabilities

Abstract

Despite increased integration during the school year, students with severe disabilities often receive segregated services during the summer months. This paper describes a three year, integrated, extended year pilot program involving collaboration between an educational program and community recreation agencies. A process for establishing such programs is described. Preliminary results of the program, in terms of activity descriptions and evaluative feedback from recreation agency staff, nondisabled children, and parents of students with and without disabilities are presented. Implications for other communities also are addressed.