Special Education Law
What is the purpose of the Education for All Handicapped Children Act (EAHCA)?
To ensure that all children with disabilities receive a free and appropriate public education (FAPE).
What rights do parents have under IDEA during the IEP process?
Parents have the right to participate in meetings, consent to evaluations, and request changes to the IEP.
What are the primary characteristics of autism spectrum disorder (ASD)?
Challenges with social communication, restricted interests, and repetitive behaviors.
What is Response to Intervention (RTI)?
A multi-tier approach to early identification and support for students with learning and behavior needs.
When was IDEA first passed, and what was its original purpose?
IDEA was first passed in 1975 to ensure that children with disabilities have access to free public education.
What is Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973?
A civil rights law that prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in programs receiving federal funding.
What is "due process" in the context of special education?
A legal process that allows parents and schools to resolve disputes over a child's education plan.
What is the difference between dyslexia and dyscalculia?
Dyslexia is a learning disability related to reading and language processing, while dyscalculia is a learning disability related to math.
What is the role of a paraprofessional in supporting students with disabilities?
Paraprofessionals assist teachers in implementing IEPs, providing academic and behavioral support, and ensuring student engagement.
What are the key components of an IEP?
Present levels of performance, annual goals, special education and related services, and accommodations.
What is the significance of the Rowley case (1982)?
It clarified the standard for FAPE under IDEA, stating that services must provide "meaningful benefit" to students with disabilities.
How can parents request a change to their child's IEP?
Parents can request an IEP meeting in writing to discuss changes or concerns.
What are common signs of ADHD in children?
Inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.
What is the purpose of a Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA)?
To identify the causes of a student's challenging behavior and create strategies to address it.
What is the role of a special education teacher under IDEA?
To provide specialized instruction and support based on the student's IEP.
What does the term "least restrictive environment" (LRE) mean under IDEA?
Students with disabilities should be educated with non-disabled peers to the greatest extent possible.
What is the difference between "informed consent" and "written consent" under IDEA?
Informed consent means parents understand the proposed evaluation or services, while written consent means they agree to it in writing.
How does an intellectual disability affect a child's learning and behavior?
It affects the ability to learn at the same rate as peers and may require specialized instruction and supports.
What is Universal Design for Learning (UDL)?
A framework for creating inclusive educational environments that cater to the diverse needs of all students.
What does FAPE stand for, and why is it important?
Free and Appropriate Public Education; it ensures that students with disabilities have access to the same educational opportunities as their peers.
What is the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)?
A law ensuring services to children with disabilities throughout the nation, including special education services.
How does IDEA protect students who are homeschooled?
IDEA applies if a student with disabilities is placed in a private school at public expense or if the child is enrolled in an alternative public or charter school.
What is the definition of a specific learning disability (SLD)?
A disorder in one or more of the basic psychological processes involved in understanding or using language, which may manifest as difficulties in listening, thinking, speaking, reading, writing, or math.
What is the difference between an accommodation and a modification?
Accommodations adjust how a student learns, while modifications change what the student is expected to learn.
How does IDEA define "transition services"?
Services that prepare students with disabilities for post-secondary life, including education, employment, and independent living.