Pre K-12 & PSRP Issues
Background IssuesMichigan has some of the most effective rules and regulations for special education in the nation. These regulations provide thousands of students with the accommodations necessary for their education and support special education teachers and paraprofessionals in their efforts to deliver quality learning experiences. Unfortunately, many students who are eligible for special education resources do not receive them because they are not in settings that are equipped to address their needs. Additional funding is necessary to supply appropriately trained staff, accessible school buildings, flexible curricula, and other necessary supports. Shortfalls in special education funding inevitably impact general education, as districts draw from general education funds to address special education shortfalls. What We NeedStrong and Consistent Regulations and Rules: Students and families depend on public education, regardless of their special needs. Weakening the regulations that protect the quality of education for these families is harmful to the children who need us most. Adequate Funding: Adequately funding special education will help districts avoid using general education funds to make up shortfalls, and deliver services to the students who need them most. It is also essential to ensure that the federal government makes good on its promises of special education funding. Access to Needed Service Providers: Special education students must have support from service providers such as occupational therapists, speech/language therapists, physical therapists, and art/music therapists. Utilize Individual Education Program (IEP) Goals as the Foundation for Evaluation: Assessment of special education students and their teachers must consider student growth based on IEP goals, which provide an individualized framework for educating a student with special needs, and define the accommodations necessary for student learning.
|
