Purpose/Explanation of Peer Buddy
Programs
The purpose of a peer buddy program is to provide a credited
elective class for students to gain experience working with same-age peer
students with significant cognitive and physical disabilities in educational
settings. Peer buddy programs allow for positive social interaction and social
relationships to develop between students with and without severe disabilities,
as well as provide a natural form of support in the classroom for students with
disabilities.
Inclusion/Least Restrictive
Environment
Inclusion is the term used when a student with disabilities
participates in general education classes with modifications and/or adaptations
as determined by the IEP (Individualized Education Program). The modifications
and adaptations can include anything from extended time on assignments, modified
goals and objectives, adapted tests, specialized seating and positioning
requirements, or individualized behavioral plans. Modifications and adaptations
depend on the needs of the student related to his or her disability, and his or
her specific strengths and weaknesses.
While in an inclusive class,
students with disabilities will learn more than just the academics and their
own targeted goals, they will also learn valuable social skills that will help
them to live successfully in society outside of school. The use of peer buddies
in the general education classroom is one way that students with disabilities
can be supported in a natural manner.
Least Restrictive Environment (LRE)
is the legal term used to determine the appropriate educational
environment/ setting for each student with a disability. The LRE is determined
by the Admissions and Release Committee (ARC) at the IEP meeting. By law, the
ARC must first consider placement in a general education setting, with supports
and modifications as necessary. Only if the student cannot be educated
satisfactorily with supports and modifications in the general classroom can the
ARC recommend a more restrictive placement. The LRE for each student will, of
course, depend on the needs of that student, and must be individualized for each
student. It can never be assumed that because of a particular disability, a
particular setting is appropriate (e.g., all students with severe disabilities
should be educated in separate classrooms).
*Note: Click on the FAQs tab at
the left to learn answers to many questions that teachers often pose regarding
peer buddies and inclusion.