CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES IN THE IMPLEMENTATION OF INCLUSIVE EDUCATION AMONG STUDENTS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS AS BASIS FOR STHRENGTHENING PARTNERSHIP WITH STAKEHOLDERS

This study explores the challenges and opportunities in the implementation of inclusive education for students with special needs in the Philippines, specifically in the coastal town of Palanan, Isabela. The Department of Education (DepEd) adopted inclusive education as a means to integrate students with disabilities into mainstream schools, aiming to provide equitable access to quality education. Despite the progressive goals of inclusive education, the study identifies significant challenges such as insufficient teacher competencies, lack of specialized training, inadequate resources, and limited access to appropriate facilities and instructional materials. Furthermore, the lack of comprehensive child identification systems and funding for assistive technologies are key obstacles. However, the study also highlights opportunities, including the involvement of parents, the potential for addressing teachers' needs, and some support from local government units (LGUs). The research uses a descriptive methodology to assess the perceptions of teachers and administrators, with statistical analysis including ANOVA, T-test, and Pearson’s correlation test. The study recommends strengthening policy enforcement, enhancing teacher training, improving resources, and fostering community involvement to better implement inclusive education.