ABSTRACT
The effective 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 the authors briefly review the primary federal law that is of special importance to special education administrators: The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). They 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 the authors discuss various aspects of law and how they affect the administration of special education programs.
