Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) on Special Education

Special Education refers to tailored educational programs and services designed to meet the unique needs of students with disabilities. These services ensure that students with physical, emotional, behavioral, or learning challenges receive an appropriate education in the least restrictive environment.

Students who have been evaluated and identified with one or more of the following disabilities may qualify:

  • Learning disabilities (e.g., dyslexia, dyscalculia)
  • Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
  • Emotional or behavioral disorders
  • Speech or language impairments
  • Intellectual disabilities
  • Hearing or visual impairments
  • Physical disabilities
  • Traumatic brain injury
  • Other health impairments (e.g., ADHD, epilepsy)

An Individualized Education Program (IEP) is a legally binding document that outlines:

  • The student’s current academic and functional performance.
  • Specific educational goals.
  • Special education services and accommodations.
  • The least restrictive environment (LRE) for learning.
  • Progress monitoring methods.

IEP: For students who require specialized instruction and services due to a disability that impacts their educational performance.

504 Plan: For students who need accommodations (e.g., extended time, preferential seating) but do not require specialized instruction.

LRE is a legal requirement that students with disabilities should be educated with their non-disabled peers to the greatest extent possible. This could mean:

  • General education classroom with supports.
  • Resource room for part of the day.
  • Special education classroom or school, if necessary.

The process typically involves:

  1. Referral: A teacher, parent, or specialist identifies concerns.
  2. Evaluation: Assessments are conducted to determine eligibility.
  3. Eligibility Meeting: A team reviews results to decide if the child qualifies.
  4. IEP Development: If eligible, an IEP is created.

Accommodations: Changes to how a student learns (e.g., extended time, audiobooks).

Modifications: Changes to what a student is expected to learn (e.g., simplified assignments).

Yes! Parents are key members of the IEP team and have the right to:

  • Participate in meetings.
  • Review and approve evaluations and IEPs.
  • Request changes or additional services.
  • Dispute decisions through mediation or due process.

Special Education teachers:

  • Provide individualized instruction.
  • Collaborate with general education teachers.
  • Implement IEPs.
  • Monitor student progress.
  • Advocate for students’ needs.

These are additional supports to help students benefit from their education, such as:

  • Speech therapy
  • Occupational therapy
  • Physical therapy
  • Counseling
  • Transportation

Transition planning begins by age 16 (or earlier in some states) and focuses on:

  • Post-secondary education.
  • Vocational training.
  • Employment.
  • Independent living skills.

Parents have the right to:

  • Request an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE).
  • Mediation.
  • File a complaint with the state education agency.
  • Request a due process hearing.

Yes, but accommodations (e.g., extended time, read-aloud) may be provided. Some students may take alternative assessments.

Schools can promote inclusivity by:

  • Promoting collaboration between general and special education teachers.
  • Providing professional development on inclusive practices.
  • Encouraging peer support and awareness programs.

Here are some helpful resources:

FAQ on Related Services in Special Education

Speech Therapy helps students with speech, language, and communication challenges.

Examples:

  • Articulation therapy (improving speech sounds).
  • Language development (expressive and receptive language skills).
  • Stuttering therapy (fluency and communication strategies).

Occupational Therapy (OT) assists students with fine motor skills, sensory processing, and daily living skills.

Examples:

  • Handwriting support (improving legibility and speed).
  • Self-care skills (dressing, feeding, and hygiene).
  • Sensory integration (managing sensory sensitivities).

Physical Therapy (PT) supports students with mobility, strength, and coordination challenges.

Examples:

  • Walking (improving gait and balance).
  • Gross motor skills development (running, jumping, and climbing).
  • Strength and endurance training.

Counseling Services provide emotional and behavioral support to help students succeed in school.

Examples:

  • Individual counseling (one-on-one sessions with a counselor).
  • Group counseling (social skills training and peer support).
  • Behavioral interventions (managing emotions and behaviors).

School Psychologists provide mental health and academic support to students.

Examples:

  • Conducting psychological evaluations to identify learning or emotional challenges.
  • Developing behavior intervention plans (BIPs) for students with behavioral needs.
  • Providing crisis intervention and support during emergencies.
  • Collaborating with teachers and parents to create supportive learning environments.

School Nurses provide health-related support to students, ensuring they can safely participate in school activities.

Examples:

  • Administering medications and treatments.
  • Managing chronic health conditions (e.g., diabetes, asthma).
  • Providing first aid and emergency care.
  • Educating students and staff on health and wellness topics.

Behavior Intervention Implementation (BIII) involves strategies to address challenging behaviors and support positive behavior development.

Examples:

  • Implementing behavior intervention plans (BIPs).
  • Using positive reinforcement and rewards.
  • Teaching self-regulation and coping skills.
  • Collaborating with teachers, parents, and specialists.

A One-to-One Aide provides individualized support to a student with significant needs, helping them access the curriculum and participate in school activities.

Examples:

  • Assisting with academic tasks and classroom activities.
  • Supporting communication and social interactions.
  • Helping with mobility and personal care needs.
  • Implementing behavior support strategies.

Transportation ensures students with disabilities have access to school and related services.

Examples:

  • Specialized buses (equipped for students with mobility needs).
  • Wheelchair-accessible vehicles.
  • Door-to-door transportation services.