In The Politics of Autism, I write about special education and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. II also discuss the day-to-day challenges facing autistic people and their families.
- In a letter to state special education leaders focused on the needs of “highly mobile children” the U.S. Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services on Thursday said school systems need to provide “timely and expedited evaluations and eligibility determinations” for any of these students suspected of having a disability that impacts their learning. The letter defines highly mobile children as those who are connected with military families, or are migratory, homeless or in the foster care system.
- The 11-page letter, which came in response to concerns from stakeholders, includes resources on response to intervention approaches before an evaluation is complete and the use of comparable special education services for students new to a district.
- Students who move frequently, particularly those with disabilities, can face challenges such as difficulty communicating their needs to an unfamiliar school and district. OSERS said the intent of its letter is to ensure the educational stability of highly mobile students with disabilities.