Can Special Education Keep UP With Common Core?

Since the Common Core Standards were launched in 2009, there has been a divisive national debate on these standards and whether or not they are the most efficient way to improve the quality of our nation’s primary education system. Within that debate, many opponents have emerged critiquing the standards for being a hinderance to special education students. Many experts and educators feel that students with learning disabilities and special needs should not be measured by the same standards and taking the same tests as general education students. Countless other assert that the common core standards set a high bar for both students and educators, but are vital to for future success. Although the implementation of the Standards have had a big impact on students with disabilities, the the federal government has provided only limited guidance in this area.

As part of the services extended to special education students in the United States, many of these individuals are offered Individualized Education Programs (IEP), which provide support and services for each student depending on their learning needs. In many situation, that support comes in the form of accommodations during test-taking like getting extra time, having some questions read out loud, or being in a separate testing location. Some education facilities will even offer alternate assessments for special needs students, which often allow special needs educators to write their own version of the end-of-the year state tests based on the Common Core, but modified to meet the needs of these students.

Yet still, even with these accommodations, many special education teachers feel that the Common Core Standards are limiting their ability to help their students succeed. One of the greatest concerns is that the Common Core’s strong emphasis on testing could undermines the work of that individualized, differentiated experience necessary for special education. For a long time, the emphasis in special education has been on adapting the experience of learning to met the unique needs of the individual, thus empowering them to succeed and progress. Some educators are concerned that the strict benchmarks set by the Common Core standards will ultimately result in these students being placed into situations where they are unable to succeed.

Adapting to changing curriculum, standards and legislation can be challenging for educators. During these times of transition, trial and error is part of the process, but it can also leave educators and the institutions they work for exposed to a number of liability risks. A broad spectrum of educators liability insurance coverage is essential to help defend educational entities, educators and volunteers. At Professional Government Underwriters, our Education Management Insurance programs are tailored specifically to fit the needs of public, parochial and nonprofit private school entities including colleges, universities and vocational training schools. For more information about or offerings, contact us today.