Endrew v. Douglas: Beyond De Minimis Progress for Students With Autism

• In Event: Equity in Education

Abstract

This paper provides a detailed overview of litigation related to ASD with particular emphasis on the 2017 landmark Supreme Court decision in Endrew F. ex rel. Joseph F. v. Douglas County School District. Using traditional legal research methods, court decisions are then used to contribute to the existing special education law with recommendations to support the implementation of a FAPE for children with ASD. Findings serve as a guide for educators, parents, advocates of children with ASD, and the judiciary to navigate the complex legal and policy landscape resulting from the recent Endrew’s impact on the FAPE legal standard and the expected level of benefit afforded children with ASD.

Authors

• Cynthia A. Dieterich, Baldwin Wallace University

• Suzanne Kucharczyk, University of Arkansas

• Kevin P. Brady, University of Arkansas at Fayetteville