President Clinton signed the Reauthorization of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) into law June 4, 1997. Upon his signature, most parts of the legislation became effective. One notable exception is the new provisions for the IEP process, which will become law next year.

What does this mean for Kansas? Rather than a minor rewrite, this bill includes major changes and a shift in focus to view the world of special education much more in terms of general education. School improvement plans are discussed, student progress in the general education curriculum is to be accountable, and general educators are to be partners in IEP development. Families are participants in all meetings, and parent information is to be used during the evaluation and assessment process.

Mediation has never been a formal part of the dispute resolution procedures in Kansas. Although some districts have offered mediation informally, there has not been a statewide process in place. A group of stakeholders has been working nearly two years to devise such a process, which we anticipate will be available to schools and families this fall. Training for special education mediators will be available throughout the year. If you are interested in becoming involved, please call Marnie at 785-296-1944.

Another potential change for Kansas is the opportunity to extend our non-categorical classification through the age of 9. As I learn more about this new law, I look forward to the promise it holds for new initiatives.

Many of you know that the Student Support Services Team intends to rewrite state regulations for special education. With the new IDEA, we have a wonderful window of opportunity to consider how best to implement its changes in Kansas. If you have any ideas or suggestions, please contact Carol Dermyer at (785) 296-7454. We welcome your input!

Submitted by Marnie Campbell

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