Myths Associated with Inclusive Education

For years parents and educators have heard many excuses why students with disabilities should not be full included in their home zoned school..  Many times these excuses fall into specific categories. Myth #1: Students with significant disabilities educated in general education classrooms won’t get the support they need. Myth #2: Students with the most significant…

The Role of ParaEducators in Inclusive Schools

“A paraeducator is an individual who provides instructional or related support to students under the direction and supervision of a certified teacher. In the last two decades, the roles and responsibilities of paraeducators in inclusive schools have reached new levels of importance. The role of paraeducators has evolved from clerical support to personal support, such as feeding…

Individual Student Planning – Planning Transition from Special Education Classes to General Education Settings

“Before a student moves from a self-contained special education class to a general education setting in his or her neighborhood school for the first time, the school system support staff will need to initiate a planning process to ensure that the supports and services are in place when the student starts school. The planning process…

Top 10 Ways a Judge Can Influence a Child Under IDEA in Court

Joe Tulman, Professor of Law at the UDC David A Clark School of Law, makes these recommendations on 10 Things a Judge in Delinquency or Criminal Court Can Do Under IDEA Regarding People with Education Related Disabilities Gather relevant stakeholders and clearly divide what should be handled by whom. Ensure the child is evaluated for…

Understanding Dyslexia: A Guide for Tennessee Parents and Educators

Understanding Dyslexia: A Guide for Tennessee Parents and Educators The department frequently receives questions from parents and educators regarding dyslexia and its relationship to specific learning disabilities. Additionally, several recent policy changes have precipitated a need to provide further guidance around this issue. In particular, school districts recently began implementation of the Response to Instruction…

Occupational Diploma Information Sheet

 From the Disability Coalition on Education… OCCUPATIONAL DIPLOMA INFORMATION SHEET What is the Occupational Diploma? The Occupational Diploma is one of three diploma options for students graduating/exiting high school; the other two options include a regular high school diploma (full diploma) or a special education diploma The Occupational Diploma IS NOT the equivalent of a…

The IEP Team Process

IEP Team Process Video Series IEP season is upon us.  Everyone seems to be preparing for their IEP meetings.  Educators and parents alike are planning the document that will provide the guidance for their child’s education into the next school year.  Exceptional Children’s Assistance Center has created some good video explanations of the IEP Process.  As you watch, keep…