Calculate FAPE in LRE
Providing a free appropriate public education (FAPE) for a student with a disability begins with the consideration of services in the least restrictive environment (LRE). To achieve this, it is important to understand that special education services are portable and may be provided in a wide variety of locations.
Currently, 22 Pa Code 14.141 provides for the definition of itinerant, resource, part-time and full-time "classes." However, the determination of the level of services outlined under 22 Pa Code 14.141 are not limited to special education "classrooms" alone. The levels of service listed are portable and may be provided in any variety of locations as deemed appropriate by the student's IEP team. For example, special education services can be delivered in locations that include:
As IEP teams decide which services and programs are appropriate for students with disabilities, it is important that the teams record both:
The Pennsylvania Department of Education web site provides specific examples of calculating and recording LRE information on student's IEPs. Please review this information with your staff to insure accurate reporting of this data. Contact the special education adviser assigned to your region for additional information.