Frequently Asked Questions:

General Questions About Special Education

• What is special education?

  
  

  Special education is tailored instruction and services provided to students with disabilities to meet their unique learning needs.

  
  

• Who qualifies for special education?

  
  

  Students with disabilities identified under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) may qualify if the disability impacts their ability to learn in a general education setting.

• What disabilities are covered under IDEA?

  
  

  Disabilities include autism, learning disabilities, speech or language impairments, emotional disturbances, intellectual disabilities, hearing impairments, visual impairments, orthopedic impairments, traumatic brain injury, and others.

• How is eligibility for special education determined?

  
  

  A student undergoes an evaluation process, which includes assessments and input from parents, teachers, and specialists.

Questions About IEPs

• What is an IEP?

  
  

  An Individualized Education Program (IEP) is a legally binding document that outlines a student’s special education services, goals, and accommodations.

• Who develops an IEP?

  
  

  An IEP is developed by a team, including the student's parents, teachers, a special education professional, and sometimes the student.

  
  

• What is included in an IEP?

  
  

  An IEP typically includes:

  • The student’s current academic and functional performance levels.

  • Annual goals.

  • Special education services and supports.

  • Accommodations and modifications.

  • Assessment participation plans.

  • and much more

• How often is an IEP reviewed or updated?

  
  

  IEPs must be reviewed at least once a year, but changes can be made anytime if the team agrees.

  
  

• What are accommodations vs. modifications?

  
  

  • Accommodations: Changes in how a student learns (e.g., extended time on tests).

  • Modifications: Changes in what a student learns (e.g., simplified assignments).

    
    

Questions About Rights and Processes

• What are parents’ rights in the IEP process?

  
  

  Parents have the right to participate in meetings, request evaluations, access records, and challenge decisions through due process.

• What happens if parents disagree with the IEP?

  
  

  Parents can request a meeting, mediation, or a due process hearing to resolve disputes.

  
  

• Can a student with an IEP be disciplined?

  
  

  Yes, but there are protections in place. For example, if a student's behavior is related to their disability, the IEP team must address it.

  
  

• What is the difference between an IEP and a 504 Plan?

  
  

  • An IEP provides special education and services under IDEA.

  • A 504 Plan provides accommodations under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, typically for students who do not qualify for an IEP.

• How can parents ensure the IEP is being followed?

  
  

  Parents can communicate with teachers, request progress updates, and observe their child’s work.

  
  

Transition and Post-Secondary Questions

• What is a transition plan in an IEP?

  
  

  Transition plans, required by age 16 (or earlier in some states), prepare students for life after high school, focusing on post-secondary education, employment, and independent living.

  
  

• What happens to the IEP after high school?

  
  

  IEP services end after high school, but students may receive support under Section 504 in college or vocational programs.