IDEA is the federal law which provides the foundation for SPED in public schools. The Purpose of the Law is to “ensure that all children with disabilities have available to them a free appropriate public education that emphasizes special education and related services designed to meet their unique needs and prepare them for further education, employment, and independent living;” §300.1
Each student suspected of having a disability must be identified and evaluated to determine whether they have a disability and if they need from special education services. A diagnosis of Duchenne muscular dystrophy in itself does not guarantee student eligibility for special education. The law mandates that an evaluation must include a variety of assessment tools that will accurately demonstrate the child's specific areas of educational need based on present level of academic achievement and functional performance.
Once a child’s evaluations are completed, the school will schedule a “multidisciplinary” team meeting with the parents, teachers and others familiar with the child to review the assessments and determine whether the child is eligible for Special Education. The evaluation process should also consider other factors, such as parent input, teacher recommendations, physical condition, social and cultural background, behavior and any independent evaluations. Should a child be considered eligible, the group conducts an Individualized Education Program meeting to determine appropriate services, supports accommodations and modifications needed based on the evaluations and goals.
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