Who We Serve

Families of children with disabilities are the heart and soul of One Classroom. Your love for your child and desire to prioritize an inclusive Catholic education drives our work. Together, with our partner schools, the One Classroom model brings parish communities together with a shared mission of serving all children, while ensuring sustainable, thriving Catholic schools. 

Embracing families with compassion and understanding.

Who We Serve

We help schools welcome any child seeking a Catholic education, no matter their abilities. Children in One Classroom programs have a range of intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), including Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, autism spectrum disorders (ASDs), and more. Most Catholic schools have become adept at serving children with minor learning disabilities, but our programs give precedence to students with the most significant needs. The greater the disability, the higher the priority. One Classroom does not expect contributions from our families, and our partner schools do not charge additional tuition in order for students to access on-site therapies such as speech, occupational, and physical therapy. 

Three young girls stand inside a church near the altar, smiling at the camera. They are wearing red plaid skirts and casual tops, with one in a white shirt and the others in red polo shirts. One girl is holding an open book, and a microphone is in front of them. The church interior features a sculpture of Jesus Christ and religious decorations in the background.

“Rose cantored for the first time at Mass today. She sang so beautifully and was so proud of herself. I could hear her above the others, sometimes just slightly off key. But the real beauty was that no one cared at all, and her volume encouraged all the kiddos to sing louder! I’ve had at least five teachers reach out to tell me how proud they are of her.”

— Erin, Parent, Sacred Heart Catholic School

A young boy with glasses, wearing a red shirt and black shorts, standing beside a sign that reads, 'Saint Mary Magdalen Catholic School welcomes you to our school.' The boy is smiling, carrying a backpack, and standing outside near a stone pillar and black fence, with greenery and foliage in the background.

Why Our Schools Need Your Children

There is a misconception that the only students who benefit from an inclusive education are students with disabilities and learning differences. As parents of children with IDD, we know nothing could be further from the truth! A large body of research demonstrates that all children in inclusive environments achieve higher academic gains and more long-term success. Furthermore, students with disabilities have much to teach their peers about compassion, honesty, acceptance and love. It is a win-win!