Educating Teachers with Emotional Disabilities

Abstract

Section 504 of the Rehabilitatin Act of 1973 prohibits discrimination against individuals with handicapping conditions who are otherwise qualified for education or employment. The Act applies to all institutions of higher education receiving federal financial assistance, and apparently protects individuals with emotional or behavioral disabilities if they apply for admission to or enroll in teacher education programs. Standards of ethical practice also appear to compel special education professionals to advocate for these individuals if they wish to pursue teaching as a career. Close inspection of the law and its interpretations reveals, however, that other legal and moral issues must be considered in protecting the public interest, especially the education of children and youth with disabilities. Recommendations for action are suggested for teacher educators who know or suspect that a trainee has a serious emotional-behavioral problem.

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References

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