Special Education
Specially designed instruction, at no cost to parents, to meet the unique needs of a child with a disability. This can include instruction in the classroom, at home, in hospitals, or other settings.
Related Terms
Individualized Education Program (IEP)
A written plan created for your child that describes their current abilities, sets learning goals, and lists the special education services they will receive. It's a legal document that the school must follow.
Related Services
Additional support services your child needs to benefit from special education. Common examples include speech therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, counseling, transportation, and assistive technology.
Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE)
Your child's right to receive special education and related services at no cost to you. "Appropriate" means the education must be designed to meet your child's unique needs and help them make progress.
Special Education in context
Special Education comes up across the IEP process — in your IEP document, during meeting prep, and in the federal rights that protect your child. IEP Ally explains where it shows up and what to do about it.
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Upload Your IEP — Free →This glossary is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Definitions are simplified for parent-friendly understanding and may not reflect the full legal text. Consult a qualified attorney or advocate for advice about your specific situation.