REFLECTIVE ANALYSIS ON THE ADOPTION AND IMPLEMENTATION OF INCLUSIVE EDUCATION POLICIES IN THE COLOMBIAN OFFICIAL SYSTEM

Abstract

This essay presents an overview of the public policies adopted and implemented to guarantee inclusive education in Colombia, describing the principles, objectives, and fundamental elements developed for their implementation in public educational institutions. Its objective was to analyze the public policies that support inclusive education at the national level and their impact on the public education system, as well as the guidelines that direct their implementation in schools, the role of key stakeholders, and to generate proposals that strengthen an inclusive culture to guarantee equity and quality education. Within the framework of guaranteeing access, retention, and quality education for all students, without discrimination, and promoting their development and participation in school environments, this study addresses theoretical components to be considered as an institutional strategy for the development of school inclusion. These components include school inclusion policies, inclusive educational practices, and an inclusive culture. Furthermore, it outlines a framework for the participation of all members of the educational community (school administrators, teachers, counselors, students, families, and the community at large) in the adoption, implementation, development, and successful monitoring of inclusive education policies. The findings demonstrate progress in inclusive education policies at the regulatory and discursive levels, but also highlight inconsistencies and gaps in their implementation within public educational institutions. The conclusions underscore the importance of the teacher's role, their preparation, and their ability to foster an inclusive culture, as well as the support provided by institutions, the availability of resources, and the acceptance of diversity.