Week 4 Reflection

I thought the video was insightful in knowing how IEP meetings work. I loved that there are so many people on board and striving to improve the individual's success. I also think that the way that they have organized it so everyone is on the same page is smart. For example, the nurses, and teachers, and attorneys, administration, and families are all included in every meeting. In the video there was a woman that talked about how a student had to be so careful of what he ate- that was important for all those at the meeting to know, and not just the nurses or those in charge of his health. Teachers are responsible for making sure that they are aware of all the needs and accommodations to prevent accidents or situations where the child is excluded.

The teachers talked about the dreams and nightmares of the child. These are different in every family and child. The dreams are especially important because that is where we can base our developmental goals off of in order to reach them. I loved learning about the different components of IEP.: the components of IEP are understanding and looking at the child's current development, setting goals, projects, services available, accommodations, and how the child is going to participate.

There are so many laws and cases that have fought for the students equality and rights. I feel that with each case and each year that passes the government is becoming more flexible and understanding of concerns that families have with children with disabilities. I think one of the most important aspects of these cases and laws is to ensure that children with disabilities get the same opportunities and have access to the same curriculum. Inclusion is key, and when they are included and put in the least restrictive environment, they benefit, their families are benefitted, and the peers are also benefitted.