Free and Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) in the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) is the foundation of special education. What do these terms really mean? How do we ensure that we are providing FAPE in the LRE? It is critical that all educational staff, including administrators, general and special education teachers, itinerant and ancillary staff, and support staff, understand these terms and the related obligation of each in order to appropriately support students with disabilities.

IDEA Language

• Individuals with Disabilities Education Act
• Section 300.101 Free Appropriate Public Education
• Section 300.114 Least Restrictive Environment

OSERS Dear Colleague Letters

• OSERS Policy Guidance on FAPE: Dear Colleague Letter - 11-16-15
• Dear Colleague Letter on the Inclusion of Behavioral Supports in Individualized Education Programs - 08-08-2016

Case Law

• Q&A on Endrew
• LH v Hamilton County DOE

MDE-OSE Guidance Documents

• MDE-OSE: Conducting a Manifestation Determination Review
• MDE-OSE: Determining a Change of Placement
• MDE-OSE: Responding to and Counting Disciplinary Removals
• MDE-OSE: Shortened School Day
• MDE-OSE: IDEA Discipline Requirements
• MDE-OSE: IEP Development - Supplementary Aids and Services
• MDE-OSE: Measurable Annual Goals and Short-Term Objectives

Inclusive Practices - Research & Data

• National Secondary Transition Technical Assistance Center
• Indiana Inclusion Study Executive Summary
• Kurth & Mastergeorge 2010
• Placement of Learners with Disabilities in the Least Restrictive Environment IDEA White Paper
• Inclusive Education Research & Practice - Inclusion Works!
• Moving Toward Equity and Access through Inclusive Schooling: Considerations for School Administrators

Other

• SPP Indicator 5 - Educational Environments
• Michigan Pupil Accounting Manual
• MDE Model Code of Student Conduct 2019
• FAPE in the LRE: The New Bloodborne Pathogens (START Connecting Article, September 2019)

Please note: materials and handouts are subject to change. Some videos and images may have been removed from materials and handouts due to copyright restrictions.