What is the age limit to not mix sp. ed. children in same classroom?

Question

I teach 6th, 7th, and 8th grade Sp. Ed. in CA. They are in the same room with each other. One of them is a boy of 14 yrs. and the 6th grader is 10. Is this legal?

Answer 1

I know in some cases children may be grouped by abililities or similar diagnoses or disorders. It is not always the case. but yes that is legal. I know I have seen rooms with 16 year olds and 10-or 11 year olds  in them...it depends on your school, your district, and resources. If it wasn't legal, trust me a parent would have been ALL Over it by now ;) Your situation is similar to one of the programs at my school...It is difficult to cover material and teach lessons, but you will find a way! Good luck!

Answer 2

IN NJ it's three years, not three grades

Answer 3

Yes it is legal. Students in a special education class must be no more than four years apart in age, at least in my state. It may vary from state to state or school policies.

Answer 4

Yes, that's legal. All the schools that my child has been in have combined all the children that technically are in different grades. This is reasonable because there are typically so few that to spread resources out would be a huge waste and impact the ability to provide services.