Public schools are the largest provider of both general and special education services and they supply a multitude of benefits for children with all types of cerebral palsy.
Public school may be the best option for parents who are looking for a cost-free education, as there are no out-of-pocket charges. Public school allows students with disabilities to be in a setting with their peers to prepare them for personal independence and aid in the development of social skills.
A notable disadvantage to choosing public school for a child with cerebral palsy is the unreliability in services available across school districts. If the child changes locations or transfers schools, he or she may fall behind if the curriculum or disability services offered aren’t the same.
Also, there tends to be a lack of information made readily available to parents about the services and support provided for students with disabilities. This can result in a less than ideal educational environment for a child with cerebral palsy.
Within public education, there are 2 choices parents have in regards to how much inclusion in the classroom is best for their children:
- Full Inclusion
- Special Education or Self-Contained Classrooms
