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Service Provision under IDEA |
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The team determines the level of service provision based
upon the student’s unique learning needs. The occupational therapist selects the
intervention approach. When considering services within the least restrictive environment
(LRE) the team attempts to keep the student in the general educational
environment with their non-disabled peers to the maximum extent possible. The
IEP, therefore, does not design a curriculum, rather, the IEP designs the
services that the student needs to enable them to make progress in the general
curriculum, and to help them participate in school. [A Parent's Guide to Special Education, A
joint publication of the Federation for Children with Special Needs and The
Massachusetts Department of Education (undated).
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Tips for Effective Intervention |
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The focus of services is
on enabling effective school progress given the disability. When considering
and providing intervention, remember that the occupational therapist may work
with the student, teacher, parent, other team members (not just the student). They
all have information to share and need input when determining a student’s
occupational performance needs.
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When a Student is not Eligible |
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What to do when a
student with needs is not eligible for services
Students may be
found ineligible for special education (and for related services including OT)
if they do not have a qualifying disability or, if they have a qualifying
disability but are making effective progress in their educational program. In
addition, some students may be found eligible for special education with a
qualifying disability that is limiting their ability to make effective
progress, but the team may not identify OT as a necessary service in the
student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP).
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Providing Services in Inclusive Settings |
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Under SPED law (IDEA), OT services, whenever
possible, are provided within the (LRE) natural routines and activities of the
educational program
Participation in the classroom is the goal and
so this natural environment should be considered the PRIMARY environment
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