Gen Ed CSE Playbook Guide
IDEA Compliance Guide Special Education Reference
Gen Ed CSE Playbook
Key Responsibilities for General Education Teachers Across the CSE Lifecycle
Core Mandate
34 CFR § 300.321(a)(2)
Required Team Member
Your Unique Role: You are the expert on general curriculum pacing, grade-level peer benchmarks, and classroom environment feasibility.
1
BEFORE: Prepare & Collect Evidence
Phase 1: Discovery
Curriculum & Academic Data
- Gather recent work samples showing student strengths and hurdles.
- Document current grades, formative data, and standardized scores.
- Compare student progress to typical grade-level expectations.
Interventions, Parents & Consultation
- Record Tier 1/2 accommodations tried and their specific outcomes.
- Maintain ongoing parent contact on progress; build positive family partnership.
- Log behavioral, social, and executive function observations.
- Briefly confer with the School Psychologist prior to the CSE meeting.
2
DURING: Share Perspective
Phase 2: At The Table
Present Levels (PLOP) Input
- Deliver balanced input: highlight assets, strengths, and interests first.
- Articulate specific daily triggers and learning barriers.
- Explain demands of the general classroom (pace, group tasks, tests).
Feasibility & Accommodations
- Weigh in on accommodations and supports being provided within the general education class—and have data to support.
- Mandatory Attendance: Remain for the entire meeting unless formally excused.
3
AFTER: Implement & Monitor Fidelity
Phase 3: Classroom Execution
Legal Fidelity & Routine Use
- Review the finalized IEP/Program document as soon as distributed.
- Execute all documented accommodations from Day 1 (not optional).
- Ensure test modifications (extended time, location) are strictly provided.
Collaboration & Progress Logs
- Track progress data regularly for IEP quarterly reporting periods.
- Communicate proactively with co-teachers and service providers.
- Maintain strict student privacy under FERPA guidelines at all times.
Essential Legal Reminders
Federal & State Special Ed Compliance
No Pre-Determination Prior to the CSE, any discussions with parents regarding eligibility or placement constitute illegal pre-determination.
Written Excusals Only You cannot leave early or be absent without advance written parental consent and official district sign-off.
Accommodations Are Law IEP accommodations are federal mandates, not teacher options. Failure to provide them violates federal law.
Objective Documentation Keep notes factual and neutral. Focus on observable data, measurable skill gaps, and intervention trials.
