Reading Response

The article "Public Law 94-142: The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act" is an overview of the education system regarding students with disabilities. This law indicates that every student, with or without a disability, has the opportunity for a free education in public school systems. Each student will receive their education based on their unique needs and skill qualifications for learning.

It is stated that this law is set for children ages three to twenty one who are in need of these services because of their disability. School districts find out these levels of each student based on a general test that is in no way discriminating against race, culture or gender. This evaluation is made by a multidisciplinary team which includes education realted people from different fields such as teachers, physical therapists and psychologists. If a parent of a student is not satisfied with the results of the evaluation they are able to have an outside evaluation done to have a second opinion.

The author then proceeds to discuss the meaning of free education provided to students. Education is provided to students at no cost to the parents regardless of how much funding the school district is receiving from the state. This is not only for education but education related purposes such as "transportation, speech therapy, audiological or hearing services, psychological services for diagnosis and evaluation, augmentative or assistive devices considered necessary, and counseling and/or medical services."

Also, disabled students are provided with IEP or Individualized Education Program which is a legal document describing the specific education needed for each student. The purpose of this program is to find an appropriate program that identifies the goals set for each disabled student. It is also vital for parents to keep up with the students educational needs in order to help place their child in the correct educational program.

In conclusion, this disability law enables every individual student to be placed in the correct program to fit their educational needs. This will allow every student whether disabled or not to be able to learn at their own pace and fit their needs.