Delegates support teacher role in IEPs

April 9, 2005

Delegates resoundingly approved a Special Order of Business opposing a Bush policy that could keep teachers and other professionals out of the group that oversees educational programs for students with disabilities.

"We can't and won't let this happen," said NYSUT Vice President Maria Neira, who introduced the order.

Among those voicing support for the measure was Carmen Alvarez, vice president of special education for the United Federation of Teachers. She asked how Washington expected special ed professionals to "raise the bar" for students with disabilities and "lower the level of service at the same time."

The latest version of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, signed into law by President Bush in December, lets school districts and parents agree to exclude teachers and other members from meetings of Committees on Special Education, which oversee the Individualized Education Programs for students with disabilities.

The special order calls on NYSUT to work with the AFT, parents and others to seek regulations that let states retain authority over IEP team makeup.