The role of parents in facilitating safe, quality, inclusive education for students with intellectual disabilities: the position of the Disability Royal Commission

Abstract

Parents play key roles in the facilitation of safe, quality, inclusive schools for students with intellectual disabilities. They have an impact on the school life of their children in three key ways: their choice of school; their involvement in educational decision-making; and advocacy on behalf of their children when there are concerns about school decisions and practices. Parents were crucial witnesses at the Royal Commission on Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability providing their views on inclusive education and testimony about their children’s school experiences. The role and perspectives of parents regarding safe, quality and inclusive education were of key concern to the Commissioners. This article explores the Commission’s investigations about the roles of parents when students have intellectual disabilities and critiques the Commission’s findings and recommendations regarding school choice, parents’ involvement in educational decision-making and complaints processes.