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What is "Placement" in special education - what does it really mean? More importantly, what is the role of the IEP team in ensuring each individual student receives and maintains the correct placement for their needs?
In the realm of special education, ensuring that every student has equal access to a quality education is paramount. This responsibility falls on the Individualized Education Program (IEP) team, which comprises educators, parents, and administrators who collaborate to develop an appropriate educational plan for students with disabilities.
One important aspect of this plan is determining the best placement for each student, a decision that directly impacts their ability to access and thrive in a public education environment. In this blog entry, we will explore the IEP team’s role in locating or designing placements that facilitate optimal access to education for students with special needs.
Special education placement refers to the setting where a student with disabilities receives instruction tailored to their unique needs. Placement options can vary widely, ranging from general education classrooms with accommodations and supports, to specialized programs within the same school or even separate placements outside of the traditional school system.
The ultimate goal is to strike a balance between meeting the student’s individual requirements and maximizing their inclusion within the general education environment.
As I have stated, it is the IEP team’s responsibility to ensure each child is placed appropriately. As you (the parent) participate in the IEP team’s work, you can and should be vocal in the actions that should take place in determining the best and least restrictive environment for your child.
Below I will highlight some of the activity that should be happening during the process.
1. Assessing the student’s needs: The team conducts assessments, reviews evaluations, and gathers information about the student’s strengths, challenges, and learning preferences. This comprehensive evaluation helps identify the type and level of support required.
2. Considering the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE):
The LRE principle mandates that, to the greatest extent possible, students with disabilities should learn alongside their non-disabled peers. The IEP team must consider how the general education setting, with or without aide support, can meet the student’s identified goals and ensure meaningful educational opportunities.
3. Identifying appropriate placement options:
Based on the needs assessment and LRE considerations, the IEP team explores and recommends different placement options. The placement is determined within the “service area” section of the IEP. The team will determine the times and locations services should take place to meet a student’s needs. These can include inclusion in the general education classrooms with support, resource rooms for direct instruction, specialized self-contained programs within the school, separate schools, or a combination of these placements. This is referred to as the “Continuum of Services”.
4. Collaborating with community resources:
If the best placement option is outside of the traditional school system, such as alternative schools or residential programs, the IEP team collaborates with community agencies or organizations to ensure that the student receives appropriate services and support.
5. Monitoring and reassessing:
The IEP team continuously (quarterly) monitors the student’s progress in their current placement. If the initial placement is not meeting the student’s needs adequately, the team reconvenes to revise the placement and explore alternative options. At very least, an Annual IEP meeting will be held to update present level, goals and services. Also, your student will be evaluated every 3 years. Any member of the team, including you, has the right to call an IEP at any time to discuss your child.
Inclusive education is a cornerstone of a just and equitable society. Providing suitable special education placements is essential for facilitating that inclusion.
The IEP team, as a collective entity, shoulders the responsibility of designing placements that enable students with disabilities to access their public education effectively.
By considering the student’s needs, embracing the LRE principle, and engaging in collaborative decision-making, the IEP team ensures that every student has an opportunity to thrive and succeed in their educational journey.
Always remember that you, the parent, are a key member of the IEP team. If you ever feel as though the proper steps are not being taken to ensure your child receives their Free and Appropriate Public Education (FAPE), take action! And, if you want support along the way, know that I am available to help. I offer a free initial consultation.
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