ABSTRACT
The eff ective implementation and supervision of special education programs requires that special education administrators possess (a) a thorough understanding of special education laws and (b) the ability to implement programs in a manner that is consistent with these laws. In this chapter we briefl y review the primary federal law that is of special importance to special education administrators: the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). We also provide guidance to administrators in developing and implementing special education programs that are educationally appropriate and legally sound, with an emphasis on avoiding legal errors. Prior to examining the laws and their importance, we turn to a discussion of the various aspects of law and how they aff ect the administration of special education programs.
