What does LRE stand for in special education?

Least Restrictive Environment, or LRE, is a fundamental principle within the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). This concept emphasizes that students with disabilities should be educated alongside their non-disabled peers to the greatest extent possible. The intention behind the LRE is to ensure that children with disabilities receive a free appropriate public education (FAPE) in settings that are as inclusive as possible while still meeting their individual needs.

The LRE requires that special education services be provided in environments that facilitate learning and support, rather than segregating students with disabilities in isolated settings. This idea reinforces the importance of creating opportunities for integration and social interaction, helping to prepare students for life beyond school. By adhering to the concept of LRE, schools are tasked with balancing the educational needs of students with disabilities with their right to be educated with their non-disabled peers, fostering equality and inclusivity within the educational system.