Introduction to Special Education
Laws and policies in special education are designed to ensure that students with disabilities receive appropriate educational services. These laws and policies provide legal protections for students with disabilities and their families, and require schools to provide accommodations and services to meet the unique needs of each student.
The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is the primary federal law governing special education in the United States. IDEA requires schools to provide a free and appropriate public education (FAPE) to all eligible students with disabilities. FAPE means that schools must provide students with disabilities the same educational opportunities as students without disabilities, and that these services must be provided at no cost to families.
IDEA also requires schools to develop an individualized education program (IEP) for each student with a disability. The IEP is a legal document that outlines the student's unique needs, the services and accommodations the school will provide, and the goals for the student's education. The IEP is developed by a team of professionals, including the student's parents, teachers, and other specialists.
Other federal laws and policies that impact special education include Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Section 504 prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in any program or activity that receives federal funding, including schools. The ADA prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in public accommodations, including schools.
State laws also play an important role in special education. Each state has its own laws and policies governing special education, which may differ in some respects from federal laws. It is important for educators and families to be familiar with both federal and state laws and policies in order to ensure that students with disabilities receive the services and accommodations they need.
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