This case considers a disabled student struggling to fit in to a mainstream classroom. How do we determine what is best for the student? And how do we balance the needs of an individual student with those of the larger school community?

Discussion Questions

1. What do you think is the best placement for Amy?


2. What options are available to the school, other than placing Aimee in a more restrictive environment?


3. What assumptions and beliefs are driving the Smiths’ concern for Aimee’s placement? Jennifer’s? Miss George’s?


4. Does the ability to include students with disabilities change due to the severity of the disability? Type of disability?

Audra Vanderland

TNLI Affiliate:
New York City

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