The policy of Shelby County Schools is to ensure that students with disabilities placed in the general education classroom are provided a free appropriate public education (FAPE). It is our intent to assure that the instructional needs of all students are met. This policy is to establish equitable and educationally sound placement of all students including students with disabilities in every classroom. Our school district will utilize the state's BEP formula in determining class size for all classrooms.
To ensure the provisions of a free appropriate public education (FAPE) according to state law and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) are being met our school district proposes the following:
Education placement decisions for all students, including students with disabilities shall be made based on the instructional needs of the students;
Provide joint staff development and training for General Education and Special Education teachers (models, strategies and interventions) for maintaining an inclusive classroom;
Facilitate interactive planning sessions with Special Education and General Education teachers as well as paraprofessionals regarding each student's IEP;
Training for General Education teachers on modifications and accommodations to the IEP;
All students in the general education classroom should have access to the standard textbooks and instructional materials used in the class; alternative or supplemental materials are provided as needed;
Provide resources and supports supplemental aid and material for students to progress in the general curriculum and be successful in the general education classroom. (e.g. Assistive technology devices and services, paraprofessional support, adaptations in the classroom;
Provide the technical assistance needed to General Education Teachers in order to address the needs of individual students, and
Training for paraprofessionals is provided to ensure that they acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to assist students in the general education classroom.