Since the Education for All Handicapped Children Act was passed in 1975, schools have been required to provide children with disabilities a free appropriate public education (FAPE) in the least restrictive environment (LRE).  

With the current focus on standards and accountability, a “key aspect in thinking about achievement of students with disabilities is access – access to general education curriculum, access to high quality instruction, and access to peers”. (Theoharis and Causton, 2014)

This session aims to present current research and an overview of a framework for districts to accomplish the following outcomes.

•      Analyze school and district level data to determine the current status of student services and student opportunities for learning

•      Align the school and district mission statements with shared values and a clear vision focused on equity

•      Facilitate conversations to raise equity awareness among educators, students, community members, and families

•      Investigate research of highly effective practices in integrated schools

•      Create a new service delivery map, rethinking structures and use of staff to create teams of professionals that meet the needs of all students