Contextualizing Legal and Policy Issues in Education

Catalog description

In this course, candidates examine legal issues relating to reforming elementary, secondary, and special education through an analysis of federal and state legislation and court cases. Candidates will identify important federal and state laws, regulations, and policies, and explore how legal precedents could be applied to different school, family, and community situations. This course will also examine the legal and moral aspects of educational leadership, including the historical evolution of major educational laws, ethical spheres of thought, current trends and school law, and critical thinking and problem-solving strategies. Laws, regulations, and judicial decisions relating to the education of students with special needs will be addressed, as well as methods of conflict resolution, mediation, ethical standards, and collaboration with families and other professionals in the school building. Candidates will be required to apply what they learn as they analyze real-life case scenarios while considering state and federal laws.