Special Education
Special Education
Special education services provide individualized support for students with disabilities to meet their unique learning needs, encompassing tailored instruction, specialized materials, and related support like speech therapy, all guided by an Individualized Education Program (IEP). These services are provided free of charge in public schools to eligible children from ages 3-21, with the goal of promoting academic success, personal growth, and independence.
What They Are
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Specially Designed Instruction:Education that is individually developed and adapted to address the specific needs of a child with a disability.
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Related Services:Support services that help a child with a disability benefit from special education, such as occupational therapy, speech-language services, and counseling.
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Accommodations and Modifications:Adjustments to how a student learns or is assessed, such as providing extra time on tests or using assistive technology.
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Individualized Education Program (IEP):A written plan created for eligible students, detailing their academic and behavioral goals, the services they will receive, and the frequency and duration of those services.
Who is Eligible
- Children aged 3-21 who have a disability that affects their ability to learn effectively in a regular classroom setting.
- To qualify, a child must show a need for specially designed instruction and not be making adequate progress in school without it.
Why They Are Important
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Equitable Access:Special education makes learning accessible and equitable for all students, regardless of their abilities.
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Independence:Services help students develop personal self-sufficiency and skills to succeed in school, the community, and the workplace.
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Legal Right:The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) mandates that public schools provide free and appropriate special education and related services to eligible children.
How They Are Provided
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Inclusion:Students are educated with their non-disabled peers to the maximum extent appropriate, in the least restrictive environment (LRE).
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Variety of Settings:Services can be delivered in various places, including general education classrooms, special education classrooms, or community settings.