SAILS vs. Flusher (Inclusion) — What’s the Difference and How to Request a Transfer
Hey friends,
If you’re a special needs parent like me, you’ve probably heard these terms thrown around during IEP meetings: SAILS class and Flusher (inclusion) class.
When I first heard them, I thought, “Okay… but what’s the real difference for my kid?”
So here’s the breakdown — straight from my experience.
SAILS Class (Self-Contained)
- Small group, often mixed ages.
- Lessons move at your child’s pace.
- More one-on-one support and therapies built into the day.
- Social opportunities are smaller and more structured.
💡 Great for kids who need more individual help, sensory breaks, or a calmer environment.
Flusher / Inclusion Class
- Grade-level peers, typical class size.
- Your child learns alongside neurotypical students with extra support (aides, modified work).
- More social interaction and group learning.
💡 Great for kids who can handle faster-paced lessons and bigger groups with some accommodations.
Are There Big Kids in the Class?
- SAILS: Yes — because it’s based on ability, not age. You might see 2nd graders and 5th graders in the same room.
- Flusher: No — classes are age-based, so your child is with same-grade peers.
How to Request a Transfer from SAILS to Flusher
1️⃣ Put it in writing
Send an email or letter to your child’s IEP case manager:
“I would like to request an IEP meeting to discuss changing my child’s placement from the SAILS program to an inclusion (flusher) classroom.”
2️⃣ Share your reasons
Be ready to show why your child is ready:
- Meeting IEP goals
- More independence
- Asking for more social time
- Able to handle larger groups with support
3️⃣ Ask for a trial period
Suggest a short test run in the flusher class (maybe just a few subjects at first) and review progress before making it permanent.
4️⃣ Know your rights
- You can request an IEP meeting any time — not just once a year.
- Bring an advocate or friend for support.
- The school must document your request and their decision.
From one mom to another:
When I did this for Hirah, I started with her joining the inclusion class just for art and music. She loved it, and it gave her confidence to do more. Sometimes, a slow transition works best.
💌 I share more of our IEP wins, mistakes, and step-by-step guides over at HirahCares.org — subscribe if you want my free “Parent’s IEP Prep Checklist.”
Hirahcares 