Download the Full Position Statement Here (2022)
The Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) vigorously supports educational reforms within the public schools while promoting rigorous learning standards, strong educational outcomes, shared-decision making, diverse educational offerings, and the removal of unnecessary administrative requirements. At the same time, it is imperative that educators ensure that students with disabilities are provided a free appropriate public education (FAPE) under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, and Title 11 of the Americans with Disabilities Act. Charter schools, including virtual charter schools, are public schools, and, as such, are one approach many believe can be effective in achieving these objectives. Charter schools must be committed to providing free and universal public education and equal educational opportunities for all children and youth and employing qualified teachers of students with disabilities.