For delegates from the Netherlands, inclusive education may represent recent innovations, but for educators at the Hamilton-Wentworth Catholic District School Board, it’s a longstanding commitment. Established over 50 years ago, HWCDSB’s “Each Belongs” model reflects a core belief that every child, regardless of ability, deserves to learn, grow, and thrive within a supportive community.
In 1969, HWCDSB took a pioneering step to integrate students with special learning needs into mainstream classrooms, laying the foundation for what has become an internationally recognized approach. Today, “Each Belongs” underscores HWCDSB’s dedication to ensuring that every student is valued simply for who they are. The model was inspired by educators like Jim Hansen, who believed, “Each belongs not because he or she can do something or cannot do something. Each belongs because he or she is.”
Earlier this month our Board welcomed a delegation of 23 education professionals from the Netherlands who spent the day observing the “Each Belongs” philosophy in action. The delegation is exploring methods to support students with special education needs within their own schools, as part of a national shift toward fully integrated, inclusive learning environments.
The day began with an overview of HWCDSB’s approach to fostering an inclusive community, where delegates heard from several administrative leaders about the board’s commitment to supporting students with diverse needs. Chairperson Pat Daly welcomed the group on behalf of the Board of Trustees, stating, “You will hear about our philosophy of 'Each Belongs.' It’s more than a philosophy to guide our services with regard to special education; it is a core conviction of our system that flows from our belief that every child, every student is created in the image of God.”
Throughout the morning and afternoon, the delegates visited a range of elementary and secondary classrooms in small groups, observing programs tailored to meet the diverse needs of students. These included targeted interventions to strengthen literacy and numeracy skills, structured accommodations for students with autism and developmental disabilities, and life skills programs that prepare students for independent living and future pathways. The visits provided an in-depth look at how HWCDSB creates accessible, Christ-centered learning environments where every student, regardless of ability, can thrive academically, socially, and spiritually.
Superintendent Tracey Ferrie highlighted the importance of HWCDSB’s enduring approach to inclusive education during the farewell debrief. “Though the requirements of our Special Education learners have continued to evolve over many decades, our commitment to inclusion while ensuring recognition of the dignity of each human person remains steadfast. You gave witness to that today,” she said.
The day concluded with a debrief and farewell, where delegates reflected on their experiences and shared insights from the visit. Superintendent and central staff from the Special Education Programs and Services Department responded to questions and provided additional information and context for the delegates.
The Hamilton-Wentworth Catholic District School Board is honoured to have hosted the delegation and to share its long-standing commitment to inclusion through the “Each Belongs” philosophy.
