When a parent with a special needs child thinks about education, they might think about enrolling their child in a separate class or school. However, it is important to understand that public schools are required to ensure that special needs children learn and interact with other learners in the same classroom environment.
This is known as the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) and it is an integral part of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). But what exactly does this mean?
Understanding the concept of Least Restrictive Environment (LRE)
At the very basic, the Least Restrictive Environment is an educational concept that strives to provide a conducive environment for students with learning disabilities while letting them share the same learning environment with able learners.
This concept reiterates the need for inclusivity in education so disabled learners and their non-disabled peers can equally participate in both classroom and co-curricular activities as they learn and interact with each other.
How can schools create LRE for learners with disabilities?
Some of the factors the school should take into account when determining LRE include:
- The learner’s social and emotional needs – the school must consider the learner’s emotional and social needs to ensure that they are receiving appropriate support and resources necessary to effectively and successfully interact with their peers who do not have disabilities.
- The learner’s functional and academic capabilities – the school should consider the learner’s capabilities and learning style to establish the level of support they require as well as the most appropriate classroom setting.
- The severity and nature of the learner’s disability – the type and extent of the learner’s disability will determine the nature and level of support and accommodation necessary to have them in a regular classroom setting if that is deemed possible.
Every child deserves a fair shot at life and educational opportunities. If the school is not providing special education, supplementary aids and other support services necessary to ensure that your child receives appropriate education, you need to explore your options.