Special education encompasses a range of services and supports designed to meet the unique needs of students with disabilities.
1. What programs and services are provided through special education?
Special education services may include speech and language therapy, audiology, adapted physical education, physical and occupational therapy, school-based counseling services, school-based psychological services, and specially designed vocational education. These services can be delivered in general education classrooms or separate settings, depending on the student’s needs.
2. How do you get help when you suspect your child may have a disability?
If you suspect your child has a disability, contact your local education agency (LEA) to request an evaluation. This process involves assessing your child’s educational needs and determining eligibility for special education services. IMPORTANT REMINDER: If it’s not in writing, it never happened! PLEASE MAKE YOUR REQUEST IN WRITING.
3. What is an Individualized Education Program (IEP)?
An IEP is a written document developed for each student receiving special education services. It outlines the student’s specific learning needs, the services the school will provide, and how progress will be measured. Please keep in mind that acronyms differ by state so an IEP in Texas can be known as a PLP (Personalized Learning Plan) in California.
4. Who participates in developing the IEP?
The IEP team typically includes the student’s parents or guardians, teachers, special education providers, school administrators, and other professionals who have knowledge about the student. The team collaborates to create a plan tailored to the student’s needs.
5. What rights do parents or guardians have in the decisions that are made about the student?
Parents have the right to participate in all meetings concerning their child’s education, receive prior written notice of meetings, and consent to evaluations and services. They also have the right to dispute decisions through mediation or due process hearings.
6. How is a decision made about a child’s eligibility for special education?
Eligibility is determined through a comprehensive evaluation process that assesses the child’s academic performance, behavior, and other factors. The evaluation results help the IEP team decide if the child qualifies for special education services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
7. What happens if my child is not eligible for services?
If a child is found not eligible for special education services, the school may provide other supports or interventions to assist the child. Parents have the right to request an independent educational evaluation if they disagree with the school’s decision.
8. How often are IEP meetings held?
IEP meetings are held at least once a year to review and update the student’s plan. However, meetings can be scheduled more frequently if needed to address concerns or changes in the student’s needs.
9. What is the least restrictive environment (LRE)?
LRE is a principle under IDEA that mandates students with disabilities should be educated with their non-disabled peers to the maximum extent appropriate. The goal is to provide services in settings that are as close to the general education environment as possible.
10. What is the evaluation/assessment process in special education?
The evaluation process involves gathering information from various sources, including parents, teachers, and other professionals, to assess the student’s strengths and needs. This information is used to determine eligibility for special education services and to develop an appropriate IEP.
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