Final answer:
The qualifying criteria for special education services are mostly established by federal and state government policies, informed by educational professionals, medical experts, and input from parents and teachers. This is to ensure children with disabilities receive education that is tailored to their individual needs, in line with laws such as IDEA.
Step-by-step explanation:
Who Determines Special Education Services Qualifying Criteria?
The qualifying criteria for special education services are determined primarily by government policies at the federal and state levels, particularly through statutes such as the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). This Act ensures that children with disabilities are provided with Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) tailored to their individual needs. While government policies set the framework, the actual determination of whether a student qualifies for special education services is usually made by a multidisciplinary team that includes educational institutions (such as school psychologists, special education teachers), medical professionals (when assessments for specific conditions are required), and parents and teachers who know the child best and can provide detailed input on their abilities and needs.
In the light of legal precedents, such as Mills v. Board of Education of the District of Columbia (1972), which upheld the constitutional rights of children to access education regardless of disability, the process of identifying and providing for special education needs has evolved. It is a collaborative effort that aims to support students with disabilities/inclusiveness in an educational setting that promotes their best learning potential.