3-4-5 Thrive

3-4-5 Thrive: A Guide to Providing Educational Opportunities in the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) for Iowa’s Preschoolers with Disabilities

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA 97) was intended to strengthen the relationship between least restrictive environment (LRE) and a child’s participation in the general education environment and to increase accountability for educational progress. This document focuses on IDEA 97’s definition and implementation of LRE and what is needed to ensure that children with disabilities (aged 3-5 years) flourish in the general education environment. Four steps in the individualized education program (IEP) process call for special attention if educational progress through inclusion is to be achieved: (1) developing sound IEPs, (2) seeking appropriate learning environments, (3) obtaining funding, and (4) ensuring implementation. These steps are addressed by section. Each section identifies what the law says, explains what the law intends, and highlights best practices. Appendices include: (1) acknowledgement, (2) research, (3) early childhood special education setting codes, (4) an appropriate setting survey, (5) State resources, (6) teacher licensing requirement, and (7) agency-to-agency contracts.