Presenter(s)
Samantha Charron
Abstract
This article addresses the implementation of Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) principles in adapted physical education. Despite the legal mandates established by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, the field faces significant challenges, including a shortage of qualified professionals, overemphasis on universal inclusion, and the exclusion of student voices from placement decisions. Through analysis of historical context, implementation challenges, and a proposed Student-Centered APE Placement Model (SCAPM), this article provides a framework for making evidence-based placement decisions that prioritize student success. By integrating perspectives from preservice teacher education and current practice, the framework offers practitioners a structured approach to navigating the complex terrain of LRE implementation while maintaining focus on individual student needs.
College
College of Education
Department
Physical Education & Sport Science
First Advisor/Mentor
Dillon Martinez
Start Date
4-24-2025 10:00 AM
End Date
4-24-2025 11:00 AM
Presentation Type
Poster Session - Early-Year RCA
Format of Presentation or Performance
In-Person
Session
1b=10am-11am
Poster Number
18
Included in
Revisiting Least Restrictive Environment in Adapted Physical Education: A Framework for Evidence-Based Practice
This article addresses the implementation of Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) principles in adapted physical education. Despite the legal mandates established by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, the field faces significant challenges, including a shortage of qualified professionals, overemphasis on universal inclusion, and the exclusion of student voices from placement decisions. Through analysis of historical context, implementation challenges, and a proposed Student-Centered APE Placement Model (SCAPM), this article provides a framework for making evidence-based placement decisions that prioritize student success. By integrating perspectives from preservice teacher education and current practice, the framework offers practitioners a structured approach to navigating the complex terrain of LRE implementation while maintaining focus on individual student needs.
