Identification and remediation of disabilities
How does a student become classified as having a disability? Once a student is identified as struggling, a teacher should attempt interventions. The RTI model can be used to determine if the student will overcome a deficit through a specialized intervention. If the interventions are not successful a student can be formally referred to be evaluated for special education services. A parent can also request an evaluation. This concept map shows what happens after a formal referral and how the assessment information is used after a determination of services is made.
This concept map was revised from an assignment in class based on professor feedback. It is by no means all encompassing as there are many different types of assessment for students that may have a disability, but it is a basic overview of the process and what needs to be included if a student is deemed eligible for a Individualized Education Plan (IEP). It is important as educators for us to know the process that went into creating the IEP document we receive. Teachers must take the information from that document and use it to help students to reach the goals and progress required of them. As a teacher I find it useful to know specifically what strengths and weaknesses a student has and what progress they have made over the last year. Although it is important to look at students as individuals and find out what works for them, it is important that students with disabilities are identified as soon as possible and get all of the supports they need from their first day in your classroom. For information on individualizing instruction and good teaching practices see Competency 4. |