The need and push for special education began because many students with disabilities were denied access to public education. That was then. Now, some 30+ years later, special education is everywhere and affects all schools in our country. It has fostered great progress and success, as well as many unintended consequences. Let us now ask: Who is special? Is the law on the right track? What are the costs of its many regulations and bureaucratic requirements? How does special education balance the public good with individual rights? And can it do so? How has the law evolved? Is it still working as intended, or does it need reform? We'll share stories and insights about this challenge in public education today.
Ms. Freedman, an attorney in private practice, represents Massachusetts schools. Click here for her website: www.schoollawpro.com.