EAST SHORE LEADERSHIP ACADEMY

Special Education Overview

Special education provides tailored support and services to students with disabilities, ensuring they have access to a free and appropriate public education within the least restrictive environment possible to help them succeed in school. This involves specially designed instruction and related services to meet individual needs, often within the general education classroom as much as possible. It also involves individualized education programs (IEPs), a range of specialized instruction, and support services like therapy and assistive technology.

The goal is to help students with disabilities learn the same curriculum and skills as their non-disabled peers, while addressing their unique needs.

Key Components of Special Education: 

Individualized Education Programs (IEPs):  IEPs are legally binding documents that outline a student’s specific needs, goals, and the services they will receive. 

• Evaluation and Eligibility:  Schools assess students to determine if they qualify for special education services.
• Placement and Least Restrictive Environment (LRE):  Students with disabilities are educated alongside their non-disabled peers to the maximum extent appropriate, with placement decisions based on individual needs and the LRE principle.
• Support Services:  Special education includes a variety of support services, such as:

• Related Services: Speech therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, counseling, and transportation.

• Assistive Technology: Devices and services that help students with disabilities access the curriculum and participate in school.
• Inclusion:  The movement towards including students with disabilities in general education classrooms with appropriate supports and accommodations.
• Parent Involvement:  Parents are vital members of the IEP team and have rights related to their child’s education, including the right to participate in evaluations, IEP meetings, and to disagree with school decisions.