 HESA completes 6-year plan for Special EducationDepartment of Health, Education and Social AffairsThe Federated States of Micronesia Department of Health, Education and Social Affairs announces the completion of Special Education's six-year State Performance Plan for children and youth with disabilities. The six-year plan is anticipated to guide the implementation of Special Education programs and services in the four States and at the national level. Outlined within the plan are measures designed to not only meet the various funding mandates, including the United State's Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act (IDEA) of December 2004, but the plan is expected to comply with a newly signed law which redefined education for children with disabilities in the FSM. Public Law 14-8, signed on June 23 2005, stated that "Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) and related services" be provided for eligible children with disabilities from birth to age 21. The law noted that eligible children would primarily receive special education and related services "insofar as appropriate" in natural educational environments as offered by the State Departments of Education. Consequently, the FSM Department of HESA fielded extensive consultation sessions with the various stakeholders at both the State and National levels and consequently involved the University of Guam in the development of the State Performance Plan. Hard copies can be obtained from the States' Department of Education or Special Education Offices, or FSM Department of Health, Education & Social Affairs at: P.O. PS-70, Palikir, Pohnpei 96941 P: (691) 320-2619/2872, F: (691) 320-5263 e-mail: fsmhesa@mail.fm Or contact: Mr. Makir Keller Executive Director FSM Special Education Office Mkeller@mail.fm |