Choosing the Best Educational and Social Environment for Disabled Children
Topic: Special Education
Author: Kathleen M. Cleaver
Published: 2022/10/08
Contents: Summary - Definition - Introduction - Main Item - Related Topics
Synopsis: Article by Kathleen M. Cleaver regarding choosing the best educational and social environment for disabled children. Equality in education means that every child, despite their disability, is entitled to an education in their local public school. Diversity is developing an Individualized Educational Plan (IEP) that outlines the child's educational goals, modifications, adaptations, tools, and services needed to accomplish the goals.
Introduction
I recently came across a three-panel graphic containing a picture of a pair of shoes, with a caption under each picture panel.
Main Item
The first panel was captioned, "Equality is everyone getting a pair of shoes." Equality in education means that every child, despite their disability, is entitled to an education in their local public school (FAPE- Free and Appropriate Public Education).
The second panel was captioned, "Diversity is everyone getting a different type of shoe." Diversity is developing an Individualized Educational Plan (IEP) that outlines the child's educational goals, modifications, adaptations, tools, and services needed to accomplish the goals.
The third panel was captioned, "Equity is everyone getting a pair of shoes that fits." Equity is the final part of the IEP, and I feel the most important part of the IEP. It is how and where the IEP will be best implemented. It should also take into consideration where the child will feel the most comfortable.
In special education, placement is determined by what is the least restrictive environment (LRE). We need to remember that LRE is not the same for every child and can change over time as the child develops and grows. Some children will thrive in an inclusive setting, while others will be served best in a resource room or special education school. Some children will be best serviced by a combination of settings throughout their school day. We must continue to advocate for various services and programs, whether in public or private settings, for all children. What is best for some is not best for all!
Author Credentials:
Kathleen M. Cleaver holds a Bachelor’s degree in elementary education and the education of children whose primary disability is a visual impairment (TVI). During her thirty-year career as a teacher, Kathleen received the Penn-Del AER Elinor Long Award and the AER Membership Award for her service and contributions to the education of children with visual impairments. She also received the Elizabeth Nolan O’Donnell Achievement Award for years of dedicated service to St. Lucy Day School for Children with Visual Impairments. Explore Kathleen's complete biography for comprehensive insights into her background, expertise, and accomplishments.
Explore Related Topics
1 - Choosing the Best Educational and Social Environment for Disabled Children - Article by Kathleen M. Cleaver regarding choosing the best educational and social environment for disabled children.
2 - Special and Special Needs - Are These Labels Helpful or Harmful? - Article by Kathleen M. Cleaver regarding using the words special and special needs to describe children who are disabled or learn differently than their classmates.
3 - The Most Common Learning Disabilities Today - List of common learning disabilities including an explanation of each, and signs or symptoms a child with an LD may display.
4 - Are English Language Learners in Need of Special Education - Paper by Elizabeth Barker-Voss and Kristin Basinger from The University of Phoenix focuses on challenges of managing needs of English language learners (ELLs) in the special education sector.
5 - Kids with Intellectual Disabilities Spending Little Time in General Education Classes - Findings show over the past 40 years 55 - 73% of students with intellectual disabilities spend most or all of the school day in self-contained classrooms or schools and not with their peers without disabilities.
Page Information, Citing and Disclaimer
Disabled World is a comprehensive online resource that provides information and news related to disabilities, assistive technologies, and accessibility issues. Founded in 2004 our website covers a wide range of topics, including disability rights, healthcare, education, employment, and independent living, with the goal of supporting the disability community and their families.
Cite This Page (APA): Cleaver, K. M. (2022, October 8). Choosing the Best Educational and Social Environment for Disabled Children. Disabled World. Retrieved October 4, 2024 from www.disabled-world.com/disability/education/special/choosing.php
Permalink: <a href="https://www.disabled-world.com/disability/education/special/choosing.php">Choosing the Best Educational and Social Environment for Disabled Children</a>: Article by Kathleen M. Cleaver regarding choosing the best educational and social environment for disabled children.
Disabled World provides general information only. Materials presented are never meant to substitute for qualified medical care. Any 3rd party offering or advertising does not constitute an endorsement.