Michael Is a 2nd Grade Student, Essay Example

While Michael’s teacher’s decision to refer him to special education services is reasonable because he is severely underperforming compared to the rest of his age group, this decision is not warranted. Rather, his teacher should consider his eligibility for an Individualized Education Program (IEP) rather than referring him directly to special education (Lewis, 2005). Michael’s teacher shows responsibility by first attempting to modify his comprehension classroom and homework assignments, but Michael would benefit more greatly from a program designed by a group of education professionals rather than his teacher alone. If it is found that the IEP program is not working after several adjustments, it may be necessary for him to be placed in special education. However, priority should be placed on keeping him in regular education unless removal is absolutely necessary.

Michael’s teacher’s intervention was not appropriate and sufficient because she is altering his work so that it will be less difficult than the work of his classmates. This is inappropriate because even complete mastery of this material will result in Michael learning less than the other students. Instead, she should consult other members of the staff to determine and IEP. Another action that the teacher could have taken is to contact Michael’s parents to determine the work he does at home. It is likely that this conversation will identify Michael’s weaknesses and lead to a potential solution.

Before determining whether Michael should be considered for special education services, it is essential to track his progress in the classroom following educational adjustments. It is possible that Michael isn’t learning impaired and just needs to find which classroom learning techniques are most appropriate for him. Therefore, he should be monitored, and only considered for special education services after close evaluation that has determined that the IEP intervention in regular education is not beneficial. Furthermore, he should be formally diagnosed by a psychologist as having a learning disability before any action is taken.

References

Katsiyannis A, Maag JW. (2001). Educational methodologies: Legal and practical considerations. Preventing School Failure, 46(1), 31-36.

Lewis, AC. (2005). The old, new IDEA. The Education Digest, 70(5), 68-70.

Patterson, K. (2005). What classroom teachers need to know about IDEA ’97. Kappa Delta Pi Record, 41(2), 62-67.

Weishaar MK. (2001). The regular educator’s role in the individual education plan process. The Clearing House, 75(2), 96-98.