LRE & Non-Academics
LRE & Non-Academics
When we discuss the education of children with disabilities, it's important to know about the "Least Restrictive Environment" (LRE) concept. This idea is really important and it's a big part of a law called the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). This law applies to all states. LRE is not only about classrooms and learning, but it also includes other parts of school life like lunchtime, recess, bus rides, and after-school activities.
What Does LRE Mean in Everyday School Life?
LRE means that students with disabilities should have the opportunity to learn and participate with students who do not have disabilities as much as possible. This is all about ensuring that every child feels fully included in the school community in a way that works best for them. The law understands that every child has different needs. Some students do well in general education classrooms, but others may need different settings to learn effectively. Even if a child learns in a different way, they can still participate in activities with all the other students.
It's Not Just About the Classroom
The IDEA emphasizes that LRE goes beyond academics. It ensures that students with disabilities have the chance to be involved in all parts of school life. This includes things like:
Eating lunch with peers.
Playing during recess.
Taking the school bus.
Getting involved in clubs or sports teams.
How Schools Make Decisions About LRE
When a school's Individualized Education Program (IEP) team meets to discuss a student with a disability, they think carefully about LRE. They ask: "How can we ensure this student is as involved as possible with their general education peers?" This might mean adding supports or services so that the student can join in more activities with their classmates.
The Legal Side of LRE
The IDEA has specific laws regarding LRE. These are found in sections 34 CFR 300.114 through 300.120. The law says that schools should educate students with disabilities and those without disabilities to the greatest extent possible. However, if a student's disability is such that they can't be in general education classes, even with extra help, then other options are considered.
Remember, Every Student is Different
Every child's needs and abilities are unique. So, decisions about where and how they learn and participate in school life are made individually, always aiming for the most inclusion possible.
Expanding Participation Beyond the Classroom
The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is a law that cares about more than just schoolwork. It also wants to make sure that students with disabilities are included in things like sports, clubs, and other fun activities outside of the classroom. This is really important to make sure that students with disabilities have a well-rounded time at school.
IDEA's Requirements for Nonacademic and Extracurricular Inclusion
Under the IDEA, specifically in 34 CFR §300.117, schools are required to:
Ensure Equal Access: Students with disabilities should have the same opportunities to participate in nonacademic and extracurricular activities as their nondisabled peers. This includes a wide range of activities beyond the classroom.
Support Individual Needs: The Individualized Education Program (IEP) teams play a crucial role. They determine what extra aids and services a student might need to participate fully in these activities. This means looking at each student's unique needs and figuring out the best way to support their involvement.
A Wide Range of Activities
According to 34 CFR §300.107(b), nonacademic and extracurricular services and activities include much more than just sports and clubs. They encompass:
Counseling services
Athletics
Transportation
Health services
Recreational activities
School clubs and interest groups
Assistance with finding employment or work experience
It's important to note that this list is just a starting point. Schools are encouraged to think broadly about how to include students with disabilities in all aspects of school life.
Inclusion Is Not One-Size-Fits-All
Remember, the goal is to provide equal opportunities for participation, but this doesn't mean a one-size-fits-all approach. Each student's abilities and needs differ, so the support and services provided will vary. The IDEA's guidelines ensure that these decisions are made thoughtfully, focusing on the best interests of each student.
Here are some revised questions parents can ask the IEP team to focus on LRE and Supplementary Aids and Services:
How is the LRE determined for my child, and what does it look like in practical terms?
What supplementary aids and services will be provided to support my child in the LRE?
How will my child's LRE be adapted in non-academic settings such as lunchtime, recess, or extracurricular activities?
In what ways will the school monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of my child's LRE and supplementary aids/services?
What training and resources are provided to staff to support my child in their LRE with the necessary supplementary aids and services?
How can we ensure social and peer interaction within my child's LRE?
IEPs: Comprehensive Support for Every Student
An Individualized Education Program (IEP) goes beyond just focusing on classes and grades; it encompasses the entire spectrum of a student's school life. It's a holistic plan that considers how students learn, interact with peers, and engage in school activities. From making friends during recess to participating in clubs and sports, an IEP ensures students receive the necessary support and accommodations to thrive. It's not only about academic achievement but also about nurturing their social, emotional, and behavioral development. Whether it's in the classroom, the cafeteria, or on the playground, the IEP team is dedicated to providing the tools and resources every student needs to feel included and succeed in all aspects of their school experience.
The Law Behind IEPs
The law governing IEPs, specifically found in 34 CFR §300.320(a)(4), requires that IEPs include a detailed list of special education services, supplementary aids, and support services. These are chosen based on research, as much as possible, to effectively meet the student's needs. The law ensures these services help the student in three key ways:
Reaching Personal Goals: The IEP should help the student make progress towards their individual annual goals.
General Education and Activities: It should enable the student to participate and make progress in the regular school curriculum, just like their peers, and join in extracurricular and nonacademic activities.
Inclusive Education: The student should have the opportunity to learn and participate in activities alongside other students, both with and without disabilities as part of LRE.
By including these elements, an IEP aims to provide a well-rounded educational experience, supporting the student's learning, social involvement, and personal growth in the school environment.
Equal Chances in All School Activities
According to the law, specifically 34 CFR 300.107 and 300.117, schools are required to give students with disabilities the same chances to participate in all school activities as other students. This includes not just classes, but also things like clubs, sports, and school events.
Here’s what this means:
Support for Participation: The IEP team must figure out and provide any extra help or tools (known as supplementary aids and services) that a student with a disability needs to join in nonacademic and extracurricular activities. This is essential to ensure they have the same opportunities for involvement as their peers.
Range of Activities: These activities can be various things outside of regular classes. They include counseling services, athletics, transportation to and from school, health services, and different clubs or groups that the school offers. The law also covers helping students with disabilities find jobs or work experiences.
Inclusion with Peers: It's important for students with disabilities to be involved with and participate alongside students without disabilities. This should be done as much as possible and in a way that fits the needs of each student with a disability.
By following LRE, schools help make sure that every student, regardless of disability, can be a full part of school life, both in and out of the classroom.
Changing Needs, Changing IEPs
As students grow and change, their interests and needs can change too, especially since an IEP often covers more than one school year. This is why the law, particularly under IDEA in 34 CFR 300.324(b)(1), requires that the IEP team regularly review and update the IEP. This process happens at least once a year to make sure the plan still fits the student's needs and goals.
During these reviews, the IEP team looks at things like:
How well the student is doing in reaching their IEP goals.
Any new information from reevaluations or from parents.
Changes in what the student might need to learn and do.
If a student discovers new interests or needs different kinds of support, the IEP team should be willing to adjust the IEP. This could mean adding new activities or changing the kind of help they get in school. It’s all about making sure the IEP keeps up with the student as they grow and change.
Conclusion: Empowering Every Student
Understanding the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and how it shapes the Individualized Education Program (IEP) can be a lot to take in. But at its heart, IDEA is about ensuring that every student, regardless of their abilities, is given the same opportunities to thrive in school – both in and out of the classroom.
Key Takeaways
Inclusion is Key: Whether it's in academic settings or during lunchtime, recess, or after-school activities, students with disabilities have the right to be included to the fullest extent that's right for them.
Support Beyond Academics: IEPs are not just about academic success; they also focus on social, emotional, and behavioral growth in all school settings. This comprehensive approach helps students develop holistically.
Flexibility and Adaptation: As students grow and their interests change, the IEP can be updated. This ensures that the support they receive evolves with them, allowing them to explore new activities and opportunities.
Equal Opportunities: All students, including those with disabilities, should have equal chances to participate in extracurricular activities and competitive sports, following the same rules and standards.
Remember, You're Not Alone
As parents, you play a crucial role in your child's education journey. Gaining an understanding of these aspects of the IDEA empowers you to effectively advocate for your child's needs. It's important to remember that the aim of these laws and programs is to support your child in receiving an appropriate education tailored to their unique needs in an environment that fosters their learning and well-being.
At PASEN, we're here to help. Whether you have questions about IEPs, need guidance on navigating the education system, or simply want to share your experiences, our community is here for you. Together, we can ensure that every child receives the education and opportunities they deserve.
At PASEN, we support your journey. Join us in our Facebook group, IEP/504 Support & Assistance, for more guidance and shared experiences. You can also read additional blog posts on the topic at:
Balancing Life with LRE
You can also read more here:
Dear Colleague Letter: Students with Disabilities in Extracurricular Athletics (January 25, 2013)
IRIS Center Least Restrictive Environment InfoBrief
Humboldt Del Norte SEPLA Lest Restrictive Environment Procedures
