The Modified Physical Education Class: An Option for the Least Restrictive Environment

Abstract

Public Law 94-142, The Education for All Handicapped Children Act (now The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act), requires all children with disabilities to be educated in the least restrictive environment (LRE). The LRE requirement means that students with disabilities, to the maximum extent possible, should be educated in the general educational environment with their typically developing peers. The core content area of physical education is no exception. This article shares the benefits of implementing the “modified” placement as a viable option for LRE when providing adapted physical education for some children with disabilities.