Choosing the Best Educational and Social Environment for Disabled Children

Definition

Special Education

Special education (also known as special-needs education, aided education, exceptional education, alternative provision, exceptional student education, special ed., SEN, or SPED) is the practice of educating students in a way that accommodates their differences, disabilities, and special needs. This involves the individually planned and systematically monitored arrangement of teaching procedures, adapted equipment and materials, and accessible settings.

Main Digest

I recently came across a three-panel graphic containing a picture of a pair of shoes, with a caption under each picture panel.

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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).

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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.

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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.

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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!

About Kathleen M. Cleaver

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.

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