Nov. 18, 2021

The Early Childhood Special Education Task Force met Thursday, Nov. 18 to discuss the importance of Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) for students with special education needs. LRE prioritizes that students have access to both what they need instructionally, while balancing those needs with inclusive practices.

What is least restrictive for one student will not necessarily work for another, and parents' voices are an integral part of that decision-making process. As we continue to support early childhood special education, the task force is giving input on supporting the focus on least restrictive environments through collaborative professional learning between general and special education, including observations and time to meet.

Task force members will conduct an early childhood special education program site visit Monday, Nov. 29 in Jackson, Mo. The group's next meeting is scheduled for Thursday, Dec. 2.