What placement is least restrictive for a student with a specific learning disability in mathematics?

The least restrictive environment (LRE) for a student with a specific learning disability, especially in the context of federal legislation like the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), emphasizes the importance of integrating students with disabilities into general education settings alongside their typically developing peers as much as possible.

General education classes for most subjects are deemed least restrictive because they allow the student to participate in a standard curriculum, interact with peers, and access the same educational opportunities as their non-disabled classmates. This inclusion fosters social skills, provides exposure to the general education content, and helps to promote independence.

In contrast, options such as a special education resource room or a special education class for most subjects may limit the student’s exposure to the general education environment and reduce interactions with peers who do not have disabilities. While these placements can provide targeted support, they are considered more restrictive because they isolate students from the general educational setting.

Additionally, while general education classes with a tutor after school offer some level of integration, the fact that the primary instruction occurs outside of the standard classroom environment makes it less aligned with the goal of inclusion in the least restrictive environment. Thus, the option of being in general education classes for most subjects aligns perfectly with the principles of providing the least restrictive environment for