SF2078

This bill proposes modifications to the requirements for Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) in Minnesota. Key provisions include:

1. Ensuring Special Education Services: School districts must provide students with disabilities the appropriate special instruction and related services tailored to their needs. Cost may be considered when selecting equivalent and effective instructional support or assistive technology.

2. Medical Documentation for Health Disabilities: Before categorizing a student under "other health disability," the evaluation team must obtain written documentation of the student's medical condition from a licensed physician or healthcare provider.

3. Transition Planning: By grade 9, IEPs must include a transition plan addressing postsecondary education, employment, community participation, recreation, and independent living, unless a parent requests to delay this plan until the student turns 16.

4. Early Childhood Support: Special education services must be provided to children under age five based on their level of functioning and needs.

5. Procedural Safeguards: Parents and guardians must be involved in decisions regarding the identification, assessment (including assistive technology evaluations), and placement of students with disabilities.

6. Inclusion in General Education: Students with disabilities should be educated alongside their non-disabled peers whenever appropriate. Separate schooling or removal should occur only when necessary due to the nature or severity of the disability.

7. Non-Discriminatory Testing: Assessments and evaluations used for classification and placement must be free from racial or cultural bias.

8. Protecting Children's Rights: Safeguards must be in place for children whose parents or guardians are unknown, unavailable, or if the child is a ward of the state.

Additionally, the bill requires the Minnesota Department of Education to amend rules regarding IEPs, specifically removing the requirement for benchmarks or short-term objectives, requiring only a statement of measurable annual goals.

This bill aims to refine and clarify IEP processes while ensuring equitable access to education for students with disabilities.