Introduction to History of Special Education Law ((3 Credits))

Catalog description

This course will provide a comprehensive overview of the history of education law and the history of education of students with disabilities, advocacy, and disability laws from the mid-20th century. Teacher candidates will be introduced to the role and responsibilities of the special education teacher in their legal obligation to the exceptional student, parents, and school. Particular emphasis will be placed on federal and New York State Education Department Law- Part 200 mandates and current special education laws and core issues that developed from the disability movement: Individuals with Disabilities Education Act – IDEA (PL 94-142), No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB), Individualized Education Programs (IEP), Parental Rights and Procedural Safeguards, Due Process, introduction to initiatives such as PBIS, FBA and RTI, and future litigation as it comes into effect. Teacher candidates must complete at least 10 hours (non-certified teacher candidates) or 5 hours (certified teacher candidates) in a New York state classroom observing/assisting a certified special education teacher to explore the relevance of the topics to a classroom setting. Observation assignments will integrate theoretical and research-based concepts with classroom practice. These hours count toward the 50 field experience hours required for Transitional B candidates or the 100 hours required for Residency candidates.