WHAT IS SPECIAL EDUCATION?

Special education programs are designed for those students who are mentally, physically, socially and/or emotionally delayed. This aspect of “delay,” broadly categorized as a developmental delay, signify an aspect of the child’s overall development (physical, cognitive, scholastic skills) which place them behind their peers. Due to these special requirements, students’ needs cannot be met within the traditional classroom environment. Special education programs and services adapt content, teaching methodology and delivery instruction to meet the appropriate needs of each child. These services are of no cost to the family and are available to children until they reach 21 years of age (states have services set in place for adults who are in need of specialized services after age 21). A special education program is a cluster of resources – specialist teachers, teacher aides – at a particular school. A school’s special education program is dedicated to supporting the educational needs of students with disability to access, participate and achieve at school.