Once the Planning and Placement Team (PPT) creates your child's Individualized Education Program (IEP), determining their specific placement to receive special education services comes next. A crucial aspect of this placement is ensuring your child is in an environment with non-disabled peers as much as possible. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) mandates that states receiving federal aid for special education must educate children in settings with their non-disabled peers. Special classes, separate schooling, or removal from the regular educational setting should only happen if a child's disability is so severe that regular class education, even with supplementary aids, cannot be satisfactorily achieved. This principle is known as the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE).
When deciding on placement, the Local Educational Agency (LEA) must collaborate with parents and others familiar with the child, adhering to the LRE principle. Placement decisions must be revisited annually in line with the child's IEP and should aim to be as close to home as possible. Unless the IEP specifies differently, children should attend the same school they would if they were not disabled. Any placement decision should carefully consider potential harmful effects on the child or the quality of their education. The PPT/IEP Team must also explore options like aide support, modified instruction, and other supplementary aids that could facilitate learning in a regular classroom setting.
Initially, the PPT/IEP Team should evaluate the advantages each placement option offers for the child. This assessment spans academic benefits and extends to factors like interaction with teachers and peers. Furthermore, the Team should assess whether a regular education setting might cause disruptions. Considerations include the child's social skills and the potential impact on the teacher's ability to focus on all students. Lastly, while reviewing placement options, the Team must consider the expenses associated with necessary supplementary aids and services within the regular classroom. However, fiscal concerns should not prevent offering education in the LRE.
Contact Us
If you have any questions regarding special education placements in Connecticut, or wish to consult an attorney regarding a legal matter, please contact Joseph C. Maya and the attorneys at Maya Murphy, P.C. at (203) 221-3100 or Jmaya@mayalaw.com to arrange a free initial consultation.
