EDU-210 Educating Students At Risk †

In support of the education of all students, this course reviews the philosophical, historical, theoretical and legal foundations of special education and the education of other categories of students who are considered at-risk. From this broad perspective, students examine the needs and treatment of students with disabilities as well as other groups including but not limited to migrant, homeless, and incarcerated youth; minorities; gay, lesbian, bi- and transgendered students; first Americans, students with mental health challenges, and students living in poverty. The course also reviews state and federal legislation that impacts educational practice for these students, including the individuals with Disabilities Education Act, and Elementary and Secondary Education Act, (NCLB), and court cases defining ELL education; related district and school decisions are examined as well. An overarching goal is to define what it means to be a special educator or an educator of students who are at risk for other reasons. Issues of social justice and how educators provide a free appropriate public education in the least restrictive environment are explored.