This article first notes differences between least restrictive environment (LRE), inclusion, and mainstreaming. It then discusses the LRE mandate of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, reviews federal cases that have ruled on the application of the mandate, and concludes with an examination of principles from these cases and their…

This editorial on Public Law 94-142, the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, notes major developments, such as the doctrine of least restrictive environment, the regular education initiative for merging general and special education, and the current inclusion movement. (SW)

Describes the case of Hartmann v. Loudoun County Board of Education, a case that was the first inclusion litigation that involved a student with autism who presented significant behavioral challenges. The court's decision upholding the student's placement in a special program is explored. (CR)

Examines the legal basis for inclusion and presents four federal circuit court decisions that have addressed school districts' responsibilities to include students with disabilities in regular education classrooms. Recommendations are offered for educators and school administrators to follow to determine the least restrictive environment for…

This article first explains the legal basis of the movement to integrate students with disabilities into general education classrooms, including federal statutes, regulations, and judicial standards of case law. It then examines policy initiatives to include students with disabilities in systems of accountability and educational assessment. A…

Two federal laws have been extremely important in providing rules and regulations to guide the educational placement of students with disabilities. The Individuals With Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) created a detailed set of guidelines to ensure an appropriate education in the least restrictive setting for students who are eligible for special…