Page 8 — Dear Educators and Parents
addition, where remote learning or other alternatives may still be required, schools should continue best practices to ensure all students remain engaged and connected to learning.
Schools may consider whether providing smaller cohorts of group instruction with peers without disabilities can minimize a student’s health risks while maintaining the obligation to provide FAPE in the LRE based on the individual needs of the student with a disability. The TIES Center is the OSEP-funded national technical assistance center on inclusive practices and policies. It works with States, districts, and schools to support the movement of students with disabilities from less inclusive to more inclusive environments. It has developed a model IEP that can be used to create an inclusive program for students with disabilities.
Students learn best in person and all children with disabilities must continue to receive FAPE and must have the chance to meet challenging objectives. Students are better able to engage with rigorous instruction and access services and supports tailored to their needs when they are learning alongside their peers. The Biden-Harris Administration has made learning in person a top priority for all students, including students with disabilities. As we learn to safely engage with our communities and navigate the current state of the pandemic, the Department will continue to provide guidance and resources to school communities to ensure we support the ability of students with disabilities to learn in person. To learn more, visit the disability rights section on ed.gov/coronavirus. Thank you for being our partner in this effort.
Sincerely,
 Miguel A. Cardona, Ed.D. |
