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What is Special Education?

Special education is specially designed instruction, at no cost to the parents, which meets the unique needs of a child with a disability. Specially designed instruction means that the content, methodology, or delivery of instruction is adapted to meet the needs of the child that result from the disability. The instruction helps the child access the general education curriculum, so that he or she can meet the educational standards that apply to all children.

Under Pennsylvania and federal law, a student with a disability has a right to special education and related services that are provided:

• At public expense
• Under public supervision and direction
• Without charge to preschool, elementary or secondary school students, and
• In conformity with an Individualized Education Plan (IEP)

This means that students with disabilities who need special education must receive a free appropriate public education (FAPE). FAPE includes related services that help students get to school and benefit from the special education program, such as:

• Special transportation
• Physical or occupational therapy
• Other services which help or support students as they grow and learn