Mainstreaming
IEP ProcessDefinition
Placing a student with a disability in a general education classroom for part of the school day when the student can benefit from the instruction. Unlike full inclusion, mainstreaming typically means the student spends some time in a special education setting and some time in general education.
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Ask the AI About MainstreamingRelated Terms
The practice of educating students with disabilities in general education classrooms alongside their non-disabled peers, with appropriate supports and services. Inclusion is not just physical placement — it means meaningful participation in the general education curriculum and school community.
The IDEA principle requiring that children with disabilities be educated with their non-disabled peers to the maximum extent appropriate. Removal from the general education classroom should only occur when the nature or severity of the disability is such that education in regular classes with supplementary aids and services cannot be achieved satisfactorily.
The educational setting where a student's IEP will be implemented. Placement decisions must be based on the IEP (not the other way around) and made in the least restrictive environment. The continuum of placements ranges from general education classrooms to residential facilities.
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