If a Child Was Found Eligible for Special Education Under Emotional Disabilities Must They Have a Behavioral Goal Or May They Have Only Academic?

According to South Carolina's Office of Exceptional Children Policies and Procedures released April 6, 2009, measurable annual goals should never be dependent upon the child’s label; the goals should always be related to the individual child’s needs. Therefore, some ED students will need behavioral goals, but others may not. The issue with many children with ED is that their behavior has interfered with their learning for so long, that even when their behavior comes under better control, they frequently continue to have academic deficits. The present levels should clearly describe how the child’s disability impacts their ability to access and progress in the general education curriculum. Based upon the information the IEP team has, the team will need to prioritize needs and identify the goals, accommodations, behavior plans or other services needed to address the impact of the disability. Depending upon the results of the assessment the child may have need for a behavioral goal and/or and academic goal. Either would be appropriate. For children whose behavior has improved, celebrate the achievement, and continue to address the issues around how their disability impacts their ability to access and progress in the general curriculum.

I want to say "Thank You" to my faithful readers for hanging in there. We have covered chapters 1-4 of the Q and A section of the regulations. I will pick back up in August when school resumes. I hope you enjoy a wonderful summer break!