- By 1982, the federal government sought to spend up to $3 billion in aiding the states which had previously been supported to providing services for children with disabilities.
- In 1990, the government was still spending about $1 billion a year in aiding these states; however in return for the aid, these states were required to evidence that they were providing services for these children in need.
- These laws put pressure on the public school systems in demanding more assessment, parental contract, and student evaluation. Many teachers and educational staff have protested about the laws, but that had done no good.
- This change showed how the federal government went from hardly being involved in the special education programs to becoming a huge impact on the future of aid for special education students.
Introduction to Special Education-Public Policy
Identify and briefly explain the six key principles of PL 94-142, the
Education for All Handicapped Children Act.
- Zero reject - It is mandatory that every child with a disability will be provided a free and appropriate public education.
- Nondiscriminatory evaluation - A full individualized examination will be given to every student before being placed in a special ed. program. This consists of appropriate tests which apply to each child's cultural and linguistic background.
- Individualized education program - Also known as IEP; it is a program given to each student with a disability who receives special education. It describes the child's present performance and goals for the upcoming school year, the services needed, and the schedule used to accomplish the student's goals.
- Least restrictive environment - Children with disabilities must not be educated with children who do not have disabilities/not handicapped.
- Due process - Rules made to ensure accountability between educational staff and parents in making decisions about the child/student.
- Parental participation - Parents must be invovled in their child's IEP development, and they have the right to their child's education records.
When you get into your L&S placement, you will see what Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) means.
ReplyDeletePlease keep me posted. I look forward to learning about your work in the field!