What does the term "cross-categorical" refer to in special education?

The term "cross-categorical" in special education refers to the approach of providing educational services to students who have a variety of disabilities within a single teaching environment. This method allows educators to address the diverse needs of students who may present with different types of disabilities, such as learning disabilities, emotional disturbances, or physical impairments, without separating them into distinctly categorized classes. By employing a cross-categorical model, teachers can create a more inclusive classroom, implementing tailored strategies and supports that benefit all students, regardless of their specific disability label. This fosters a more collaborative and cohesive learning environment, recognizing that students with different challenges can often benefit from similar instructional methods and interventions.