The Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) is a principle included in the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) that mandates children with disabilities be educated with children who are non-disabled to the greatest extent appropriate. The goal of LRE is to ensure that a student who has a disability should have the opportunity to be educated with non-disabled peers, sharing the same educational experiences and environment, unless the nature or severity of the disability is such that education in regular classes with the use of supplementary aids and services cannot be achieved satisfactorily.
Key aspects of LRE include:
Integration: Students with disabilities should be placed in general education classes unless their needs cannot be met in this setting, even with the use of supplementary aids and services.
Customized Educational Settings: When general education is not suitable, the educational setting should be as close as possible to the general education environment. This might include special classes, special schools, or other environments designed to accommodate specific needs.
Individual Determination: The appropriate LRE is determined on an individual basis, considering the potential benefits of a general education environment and the potential negative effects if a student is removed from this environment.
Review and Adjustment: The LRE for a student may change over time as their needs evolve. Regular assessments and IEP meetings help ensure the environment remains suitable.
The concept of LRE ensures that each child receives an education that is tailored to their needs while maximizing their potential for interaction with non-disabled peers in a supportive setting.
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