This week I learned about the many Special Education Laws. The 3 types of laws that impact Special Education are statutory, regulatory, and case.  I learned the principles of IDEA, which are:
• Zero reject
• Non-discriminatory evaluation
• Free and appropriate education (FAPE)
• Least Restrictive Environment (LRE)
• Procedural due process
• Parent and student involvement (IEP meetings)
The components of IEP are:
• Present level of performance
• Annual goals and short-term objectives
• Extent of participation in general education
• Behavior intervention plan
• Date of initiation and frequency and duration of service and anticipated modifications
• Strategies for evaluation
• Transition plan
I learned that if there is an issue that occurs in IEP there will be mediation. From there the case can go to a formal hearing, trial court, court of appeals, and eventually the supreme court. 
The 3 prong test for eligibility consists of:
• Having a disability, meeting criteria
• Condition affects performance
• Needs Special Education

It's important to learn and know all of the laws of special education and to know your rights as a teacher or as a parent of a child with disabilities. Special Education has come a long way, but there will always be ways to improve the system.