What is special education?
Federal law gives all children with disabilities the right to a “Free and Appropriate Education”. Public schools are required to educate each child using an Independent Education Plan. The child has the right to be educated in the “Least Restrictive Environment” and also be educated with “Non-Disabled Peers”.
How are a child's needs determined?
Very bright children may need and qualify for special education services. Needs are determined through several means. First, the child's parent can communicate a need. Second, need can be determined by classroom ability, observation and progress. Third, and the most important method for determining need, is the evaluation. The evaluation is so critical in this process, Congress gave parents the option of requesting an independent education evaluation (IEE) annually, if needed. The evaluation navigates and steers the education ship.
What is an ARD committee?
The ARD committee is an education team made up of At LEAST the following.... parent, teacher, special education teacher, administration (principal) and other staff who specialize in areas of weakness for the child. For example, a child who struggles with communication should have a LSP (Licensed Speech Pathologist). In addition, if evaluation reports are submitted at the ARD meeting, the evaluator(s) are part of the ARD committee.
Why is an Individual education plan so important?
Congress planned for very child who learns differently, to have their own specific learning instruction, accommodations in the classroom, and specific and highly qualified staff available. The IEP is important because the IEP contains your child’s strengths and weaknesses, and a team developed approach to teaching this child.
How can I change my child's current IEP?
Call our office for information about your child's specific needs. Together, we can strategize a plan to change your child's current individual education plan, and negotiate a more appropriate program.
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