Self-Contained Educational Settings

For Students with Severe Disabilities

ñ    Communication skills that will enable performance of daily activities, employment and social interaction.

ñ    Academic skills needed for maximal independence and employment in a complex world (refer to TEKS and Equipped for the Future Content Standards).

ñ    Personal management skills needed for maximal independence in daily life.

ñ    Socialization into the current culture across varied environments.

ñ    Maintenance of health and safety while in school.

ñ    Social networks that result in the delivery and receiving of social support.

   Student Engagement:

ñ     Students engaged in meaningful and purposeful instruction

ñ     Non-disabled peers involved in the support of students with disabilities

ñ     Lesson plans reflect consideration for the general education curriculum

   Supports and Services:

ñ     Communication systems for all students that lack the ability to communicate effectively with diverse audiences

ñ     Assistive technology to support communication and instructional goals

ñ     Related services are provided on an integrated basis

   Environments:

ñ     Environment reflects a consideration for the general education curriculum: 

o       Centers to promote instructional goals

o       Age-appropriate materials

ñ     Arrangement promotes student interaction and individual student needs

   Parent Collaboration:

ñ     Ongoing communication between school and home

ñ     Collaboration on IEP goals that are best suited for the home environment

   Teacher Collaboration

ñ     General and special educators plan on a regular basis to develop lessons and the appropriate modifications