What is the primary purpose of LRE in IDEA?

• A. To ensure students with disabilities are educated in separate facilities.
• B. To promote education with non-disabled peers to the maximum extent appropriate and with supports.
• C. To provide private tutoring at parental expense.
• D. To minimize support services.

Answer: (B)

Least restrictive environment means placing students with disabilities in general education settings with peers to the greatest extent possible, and providing the supports they need to access the curriculum and participate. The idea is inclusion: kids learn alongside non-disabled peers whenever appropriate, with accommodations, modifications, assistive technology, and related services arranged to fit the individual’s needs. Decisions are based on what will allow the student to progress and participate in the general education program, rather than defaulting to segregated settings.

Putting a student in separate facilities would be more restrictive and goes against LRE unless absolutely necessary for that student’s needs. Private tutoring paid by parents is not a school placement decision under IDEA. Minimizing supports would hinder access to the general education curriculum and social integration, which contradicts the purpose of LRE.