Presuming Educational Competence when Teaching Students with the Most Significant Needs

In this session, Dr. Brewer explains why it is crucial for students to be taught with the presumption that they can achieve. During the session she explains the important role classroom peers can have and discusses what the least restrictive environment means along with the current research on student outcomes in the classroom. Teachers and parents will be able to identify ways they can advocate for students and make sure they are placed in the appropriate setting. The second part of the session explains and provides strategies for teachers as well as the students’ families to presume competence for students in the classroom and ways to support them. She explains the term “least dangerous assumption,” and explains the important role teachers have when determining the best instruction.