Economic and demographic predictors of inclusive education

This study investigated economic and demographic predictors of levels of inclusion of students with disabilities in 129 school districts. Multiple regression analysis was utilized to address the following research questions: (a) Is there a relationship between economic factors and percentage of highly included students with disabilities in general education when controlling for demographic factors? and (b) Is there a relationship between demographic factors and percentage of highly included students with disabilities in general education classrooms when controlling for economic factors? Results suggest a significant relationship between the economic variables of general education expenditure and special education expenditure, and the amount of time students with disabilities are included in general education classrooms. Implications for practice and future research are discussed.