Depending on the age of the child and options in a particular community, the home environment may be the least restrictive. Provision of services in the least restrictive environment makes a difference in the life of a student. While LRE is individualized for every student, there are studies to support the benefits of LRE decisions. LRE, as a concept in general, helps to foster a positive approach to educating children with special education needs. LRE is also supported by numerous court decisions.
School districts are responsible for providing a free, appropriate public education for each child.
For children birth to 21, who require special education, the appropriate educational environment is determined by and based on the individual needs of the child and must address the requirements described as the least restrictive environment. The IEP Team may determine a student cannot be educated satisfactorily in the general education classroom, even when supplementary aids and services are provided. However, the school district must ensure a continuum of alternative placements is available to meet the needs of children with disabilities for special education and related services. The U.S. Department of Education requires each state to provide information related to the implementation of the Free Appropriate Public Education requirement contained in the IDEA and specifically LRE information. The IEP Team begins the LRE discussion with the assumption the general education environment is appropriate for educating all students.