Defining NE and LRE: COMAR and IDEA

Natural environments means settings that are natural or typical for a same aged infant or toddler without a disability, may include the home or community settings, and must be consistent with the provisions of §303.126

         34 CFR §303.26 Natural environments

(8) To the maximum extent appropriate, are provided in natural environments, as defined in §303.26 and consistent with §§303.126,Payor of Last Resort) and 303.344(d),Content of an IFSP);
         34 CFR §303.13 Early intervention Services
 

30) "Natural environments" means settings that are natural or normal for the child's age peers who have no disability. (13A.13.01.02 Definitions)
4) Ensure that early intervention services shall be provided:
(a) To the maximum extent appropriate, in natural environments, including the home and community settings in which children without disabilities participate (13A.13.01.08 Program and Service Components — Individualized Family Service Plan)
and
(b) In a setting other than a natural environment only if early intervention cannot be achieved satisfactorily in a natural environment;

13A.13.01.08 Program and Service Components-IFSP
 

“(i) To the maximum extent appropriate, children with disabilities, including children in public or private institutions or other care facilities, are educated with children who are not disabled.”

          34 CFR § 300.14(a)(2)
 

A. General. A public agency shall ensure that:
(1) To the maximum extent appropriate, students with disabilities, including students in public or private institutions or other care facilities, are educated with students who are not disabled;

13A.05.01.10.10 Least Restrictive Environment (LRE)