Education

Introduction

We envision an education system where all students with disabilities are receiving appropriate services to enable the student to have access to a free appropriate public education in the student’s least restrictive environment.

What We Do

We work to reduce incidences of inappropriate discipline and illegal exclusions from public schools, obtain appropriate transition services, and expand educational access for students with disabilities across South Carolina through case management, legal representation and self-advocacy training. Staff also work to improve laws, regulations, policies and practices that affect students with disabilities through advocacy.

Know Your Rights

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act (IDEA) provides the legal grounds for children with disabilities to receive a free appropriate public education (FAPE) in the least restrictive environment (LRE). These services are administered by the school district where the child lives. Special education services are available for children over the age of three through age 21 who have an Individualized Education Program (IEP).

Words to Know

any device, software, or equipment that helps to increase or maintain the ability of persons with disabilities function in daily living

Special education term used to describe the written plan used to address problem behavior that includes positive behavioral interventions, strategies and support.

Term used to describe services that place students with disabilities in general education classrooms with appropriate support services. Student may receive instruction from both a general education teacher and a special education teacher.

Legislation guaranteeing students with disabilities a free and appropriate public education and the right to be educated with their non-disabled peers.

the term outlined by IDEA to define the written document that states the disabled child’s goals, objectives and services for students receiving special education.

An extended school year is a component of special education services for students with needs who require services in excess of the regular academic year. Extended year often refers to summer school

the guaranteed right of children with disabilities to receive an education that meets their unique needs at no cost to parents.

the procedure conducted to find the reasons for students’ behaviors interfering in their learning.

The placement of a special needs student in a manner promoting the most possible interaction with the general school population.

Term used to describe the integration of children with special needs into regular classrooms for part of the school day. The remainder of the day is in a special education classroom.

required written notice to parents when the school proposes to initiate or change, or refuses to initiate or change, the identifications, evaluation, or educational placement of the child.

supports that are provided in school settings to allow a student with a disability to be educated with his non disabled peers to the maximum extent appropriate.

a set of activities as listed in the IEP that facilitate the student’s move to postsecondary options; may include vocational assessment, career exploration, and vocational education.

Prior Written Notice

This video explains Prior Written Notices (PWN).