What is the federal law on teacher student ratio in special education?

Answer 1

Teacher-student ratio is usually set by the state, not by federal law. http://ericec.org/faq/classize.html

In New Mexico, the ratios are as follows for a special education teacher (around 2x these values for therapy providers):

Level A (less than 10% special ed support time) -- 35 students (really just inclusion support with at most 1/2 hour per day pull-out for resource or therapy)

Level B (11% - 49% special ed support time) -- 24 students

Level C (50% - 74% special ed support time) -- 15 students

Level D (75% or more special ed support time) -- 8 students


Yes, these are above the level of true effectiveness (except for Level A) as shown by research. Also, category B is a bit wierd, because you can have a kid who sees you 3 hours per week who is considered category B, and another one who sees you 14 hours per week who is also category B, with the same caseload value.

Here'sanother state's caseload regulations:

http://www.michigan.gov/documents/RevRules_Sept04_101744_7.pdf (I like this one because they specify both overall caseload numbers AND maximum class grouping load)

Answer 2

Education is usually regulated by the states. In NY State, there are various types of classes with different student:teacher ratios. The difference in ratio depends on the needs of the student.
Some students need a one to one ratio (staff to student, not necessarily teacher). Some students are in a general education class and have a special ed. teacher in there to help with adapting learning and curriclum.
As you see, it varies tremendously. Sorry, that's not a clear cut one answer fits all.

Answer 3

Visit your state's Department of Education website.

Ratio depends upon whether or not you have a paraprofessional and a resource room teacher, and how the special education class is comprised, i.e. non specific learning disability, severe LD, etc.

I have taught in classes where there was 1:8, and I have taught with a para and resource teacher where it has been 3:18.

Answer 4

Its something like 7:1 and if you have 8 or more then you need an assistant....but this is in ONE classroom.

I've had a caseload of 25 two years ago and 23 last year. In my small group class of 9, I had one of my assistants with me in class.

I hope I've helped!

Answer 5

I think it depends on the state, in PA it is 12 for a class of students with IEP's. try your state ed department