Special Education Disability Categories: Continue or Eliminate

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A7.1: Special Education Disability Categories: Continue or Eliminate Debra L. Gann Walden University Foundations: Special Education Derek Schroll, Instructor 30 Seprember, 2011 Special Education Disability Categories: Continue or Eliminate The concept of special education disability categories is a two edged sword. The notion that it is in a student’s best interest to avoid labeling comes with the risk of not being able to provide the necessary amount of support. The other edge is related to the stigma and lack of progress toward returning the student to the general education class that often occurs once a student is identified. It becomes the teacher/professional’s responsibility to stand alongside the parent and determine the best path for a particular student. As educators, it is important to focus on the concept that each student is an individual and deserves a program that is tailored for them. Although this fact is not highly disputed, the route taken to reach this outcome is. The result is the reoccurring debate over how, when, and if to use labeling for students with disabilities. Being aware of the opposing positions is essential to taking a stand with either side or choosing to incorporate both. Continuation of Labels Disability codes were introduced as a way of helping link, organize, and evaluate findings for research and funding. They are designed to assist those working with students with disabilities, not the students themselves. Labeling a student helps make exceptional education needs more visible to policymakers (Heward, 2006). This means funding for programs can be brought to the forefront. Smardon (2008) writes: The meaning of disability is different for parents, teachers, school psychologists, school nurses, speech pathologists, guidance counselors, social workers, doctors, and children. However, in general, I found
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