Today, most children with Down syndrome are educated in the regular classroom, along with their peers without disabilities. IDEA 2004 states that each school system must ensure that:
Special classes, separate schooling, or other removal of children with disabilities from the regular educational environment occurs only if the nature or severity of the disability is such that education in regular classes with the use of supplementary aids and services cannot be achieved satisfactorily. (IDEA 2004, Title I B12a5)
In addition, IDEA 2004 also states:
A child with a disability [may not be] removed from education in age-appropriate regular classrooms solely because of needed modifications in the general education curriculum (IDEA 2004 B 300.116)
Least Dangerous Assumption by C. Jorgensen The concept states, “that in the absence of absolute evidence, it is essential to make the assumption, that if proven false would be the least dangerous to the individual” (Anne Donnellan, 1984).
IEP – A Guide to Participation for Parents (PDF) – An introduction to the IEP process.
Placement Decisions to consider when looking at the Least Restrictive Environment.
DCAS-Alt 1 FAQs (PDF) – Information and resources related to the state’s alternate assessment, DCAS-Alt1.
Wrights Law – provides accurate, reliable information about special education law, education law, and advocacy for children with disabilities.
Accommodation is defined as a support or service that is provided to help a student fully access the general education curriculum or subject matter. An accommodation does not change the content of what is being taught.
Modification is defined as a change to the general education curriculum or other material being taught. The teaching strategies are modified so the material is presented differently and/or the expectations of what the student will master are changed.
IEP and Inclusion Tips for Parents and Teachers. A resource written by Anne I. Eason, Attorney-at-Law, and Kathleen Whitbread, Ph.D.
Michael Remus – Inclusive Practices
Bree Jimenez, PhD – Evidence Based Practices to Support Standards based Instruction: A Focus on Everyday Practices
We All Belong is a documentary film exploring the issues of belonging and diversity in our classrooms. It profiles real parents and the dreams and fears they share. This film is a frank discussion of civil, human, and educational rights and offers a window into best practices and the struggle families face to achieve inclusion for their children. Focus: School Age, Pre-K/Kindergarten
Empowered IEP is our cohort of parents and guardians of individuals with Down syndrome who are navigating the educational journey together and sharing experiences and guidance.