Supported Education:
Traditionally individuals with deaf-blindness have been educated in separate and specialized
environments. Recently research and successful experiences have opened the
doors to less restrictive educational programs for these students.
Including students with their non-disabled peers in integrated environments,
provides individuals with disabilities the opportunity to interact with
and learn from students with other abilities. Non-disabled peers model appropriate
communication and behavior and provide opportunities for social interaction.
Shared experiences between peers allows friendships to develop. These friendships
often continue to provide support individuals need in future environments.
Supported education is an option chosen by the educational team, including
the family as the primary member. The least restrictive environment (LRE)
mandate states that the educational placement of an individual must be based
on the IEP and located as close as possible to the student's home.
Supported education is the process of providing support, assistance and
information to ensure the successful inclusion of students with disabilities
within the general education classroom. This support is most generally provided
by a team of general education teacher, special education staff, the individual
and his/her family and peers. Supported education is not a way to abolish
special education, nor a strategy to decrease services to individual students.
It is, however, a means to deliver educational services to students with
diverse needs within the general education system. It often results in an
increase of services to both individuals with disabilities and their non-disabled
peers.
Supported education can benefit students with varying disabilities. While
recognizing the unique learning needs of individuals, modifications and
adaptations can be made to accommodate individuals with dual sensory impairments
within a variety of educational settings. However, successful programming
requires that the supports and supplemental services required by the IEP
are provided and managed appropriately, and all involved work in a collaborative
manner. Personnel specially trained in sensory impairments must work in
a team approach to provide related services.
Supported education is an option that should be available to every individual
with dual sensory impairments. Careful planning and collaborative efforts
will ensure the successful inclusion of individuals in their school, community
and work environments.
Strategies for developing supported educaton programs are identified in
the following chart. For more information, or to obtain technical assistance
on this or other topics related to individuals with deaf-blindness, contact
California Deaf-Blind Services.
Fact sheets from California Deaf-Blind Services are to be
used by both families and professionals serving individuals with dual sensory
impairments. The information applies to students 0-22 years of age. The
purpose of the fact sheet is to give general information on a specific topic.
More specific information for an individual student can be provided through
individualized technical assistance available from CDBS. The fact sheet
is a starting point for further information.
Order Number 021 11/7/96.