Southwest REC Resources
As part of our goal to partner with schools to streamline the processes of administration and provide collaborative efforts to enhance students’ education, Southwest REC provides important resources to administrators across the area. Here you’ll find useful links and important information about federal education laws, programs, and funding that affect your school. Browse through these resources, and let us know how we can help you accomplish your school’s mission.
IDEA and Special Education Funding
The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act provides for a free, appropriate, public education for all children regardless of their ability or disability. This spending clause dictates how early intervention, special education, and related services are implemented and funded for children birth to 21 years of age who have disabilities. Its funding is tied to each child and the services he/she receives as part of his or her IEP or IFSP with the goal of preparing that child for further education, employment, and independent living. To learn more about this program, what it means for your school, and how you can implement appropriate services, please take a look at the following websites:
- Department of Education: Office of Special Education
- New Mexico Department of Special Education
- IEP (Individualized Education Plan)
- Intervention Techniques
Title I Schools
Title I schools receive federal funding to improve student achievement in areas with high “at risk” populations. Title I provisions allow federal grant monies to be spent on educational programs in reading and math, technology improvements, professional development, and school improvements that directly benefit student achievement. Check out these sites for great resources:
Gifted Education
Safe and Drug Free Schools
Research shows that by fostering a safe learning environment, student achievement improves. The Safe and Drug Free Schools Act offers support for schools with programs that prevent violence and the illegal use of alcohol, tobacco, and drugs in and around schools. Funding is provided for schools and community agencies to provide early intervention, character development programs, drug education, crisis response and training, and activities whose aim is to improve health and prevent violence and drug use. For great resources in building a safe and drug free school, browse these websites: