The teacher-pupil ratio in special education is determined by each state. Some states have statewide policies on class size; some states have no policy; and a few states let the local education agency (LEA) determine class size. Staffing ratios are usually based on the disability category and educational placement of the student, with classes for children with severe disabilities usually having fewer students. Some states are reexamining their policies to better support students in inclusive settings. As they revise their policies on the teacher-student ratio, they are looking at the intensity of services needed and the amount of time required for the specially designed instruction.Following are selected citations from the ERIC database and the search terms we used to find the citations.
The teacher-pupil ratio in special education is determined by each state, and this FAQ contains information on the policies of various states concerning class size for special education. However, it is important to note that the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) Amendments of 1997 place increased emphasis upon the participation of children and youth with disabilities in the general education classroom and in the general curriculum, with appropriate aids and services. Following are selected citations from the ERIC database and the search terms we used to find the citations.