Least Restrictive Environment

When we hear the phrase "Least Restrictive Environment" (LRE), it is always in reference to the education of disabled children. The National Association of Private Special Education Centers Web site defines it as "the most appropriate environment based on the individual's unique learning needs." A disabled child, to the maximum extent possible, should be educated with his or her non-disabled peers. The goal is for students to receive not only an appropriate education but social benefits as well.

Ann Logsdon, Guide to Learning Disabilities, in her article on LRE, discusses the possible interventions that can be used to guarantee that a disabled child receive an appropriate education. Here are some of them:

• Separate Classes
• Separate Schools
• Adapted and modified classwork and assignments
• Extended time to complete a task, assignment, or test
• Differentiated instruction

With the exception of extended time to complete a task, these options apply to gifted children as much as they do to disabled children. Instead of extended time to complete a task, gifted children might prefer less time. For example, they might like to be able to finish reading a book instead of being told they aren't allowed to read ahead.

I would like to see LRE applied to gifted children as well as to disabled children. What about you?

Poll: Should Least Restrictive Environment Apply to Gifted Children?

• Absolutely!
• Maybe
• Definitely Not!
• Not Sure
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