Special Education At a Glance

Special Education, in the broadest sense, refers to services provided by special and regular education personnel that have been modified through the use of special education support services, supplementary aids, or other special arrangements.  Special education is provided through a child-centered educational process that starts with a student's referral by teachers, parents, or other sources for a full individual evaluation.  The purpose of this evaluation is to determine: (1) if a physical, mental, or emotional disability exists; (2) if a significant educational deficit exists; and (3) the student's specific learning competencies.  The results of this evaluation help determine eligibility for special education.