Working with students with disabilities is a task requiring that educators have the proper resources and tools. Check out the latest guidance from the U.S. Department of Education on administering a free appropriate public education for students with disabilities. The document seeks feedback from the field - this is an opportunity for the voice of educators to be heard to influence policy and practice.
Guidance on access to a free appropriate public education for students with disabilities clarifies that students with disabilities should not only have access to a free appropriate public education (FAPE), but also they should have individualized education programs (IEPs) that are aligned with state academic content standards for the grade in which a child is enrolled. This will help to ensure that all students receive high-quality instruction that prepares them for success in college and careers.
In addition to the guidance, the Department also is sharing resources for parents and educators aimed at helping students with disabilities succeed in school careers and life:
- Website Featuring Best Practices from the Field - The Department created a new website to house resources developed by its grantees on effective IEPs, instructional practices, assessments, student engagement, school climate, home and school partnerships, and post-school transition.
- Classroom Strategies for Teachers - The Department compiled tips for teacherswith evidence-based, positive, proactive and responsive classroom behavior intervention and support strategies. The techniques are aimed at helping capitalize on instructional time and decrease disruptions.
- Positive Behavioral Interventions and Support (PBIS) ImplementationBlueprint for Educators - The National Technical Assistance Center on Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports prepared a new two-part blueprint on teaching behavioral expectations throughout schools.
- Tip Sheets for Parent - The tip sheets developed by the National Technical Assistance Center on Transition in collaboration with the Center for Parent Information and Resources are meant to help children with disabilities successfully reach adulthood. The tip sheets include information on financial management, healthcare and independent living.