3 COMMON

Legal

MISTAKES

WHEN TEACHING KIDS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS

Here are some common mistakes that special educators might make in regard to special education law, alongside suggested solutions.

MISTAKE SOLUTION

Misquoting the law or You may not have the exact answer to the question regarding the law, but it is not advisable to fake an answer. You lose credibility with others. If you do not know the answer to a question by parents or colleagues, say that you are unsure and that you will look it up. Then research the correct answer.

Relying on other When in doubt, check it out. If a colleague quotes a law, individuals’ knowledge a piece of regulation, or a pending bill, you can ask the individual for the specific citation. If you find that the individual misquoted the law, regulation, or proposed pending legislation, then you will want to store that information for future reference and know that you have to check out the information that individual gives you for yourself.

Failure to take your Prepare well for your role in the evaluation or placement responsibility seriously process. Never look at the process as a nuisance but, rather, as a serious obligation that involves the future of a child. Take the time to review records, prepare assessment information, and explore all possible placement options for the student based on his or her individual needs.

Excerpted and adapted from Your Classroom Guide to Special Education Law by Beverley H. Johns, M.S. Brookes Publishing Co.