Placement of Special Education Students in Arts Classes

First, whenever a teacher receives a special education requiring accommodations, the teacher should be given a copy of the IEP and specific accommodations that are to be provided. If the teacher has questions about procedures for providing those accommodations, the resource room teacher or other special education contact should be available.

If the student has behaviors of concern, again, look at the IEP for a behavior plan that addresses the behaviors. A behavior plan should list behavior control techniques that are now being used with the student.

If the student has been assigned an aide, the IEP should specify if the aide is to accompany the student to general education classes. The aide should also have training regarding implementation of the behavior plan. If the student is displaying behaviors that may be dangerous in the art classroom, document those behaviors and meet with the special education contact to discuss if the behaviors can be addressed, and if the student should continue in your class.

Last, try and determine if the student is benefiting from the class. If the student is participating in his/her own way, you may find it easier to deal with behaviors.

Address any follow up questions you have at our toll-free number 888-320-8384.

Tom Freeman
Office of Special Education/
Early Intervention Services