Special Education involves adapting instruction to meet the unique needs of students with disabilities, ensuring they have access to the general education curriculum.

Eligibility is determined by a Child Study Team (CST) in each state. In New Jersey, this team includes a Social Worker, Learning Disabilities Teacher Consultant, School Psychologist, General/Special Education Teacher, and the parent(s)/guardian(s). They assess whether a child meets the criteria for classification using various evaluation tools. It is important to note that medical doctors cannot determine eligibility. A doctor’s input, along with input from other professionals, will be considered by the CST, but ultimately only the CST can determine the presence of a disabling condition and determine eligibility.

If a child is not eligible for special education, the CST, with your consent, will share their findings with school staff. The school may use this information to support the child in the general education classroom or if appropriate, the child may be referred to a 504 committee to determine eligibility for a 504 accommodation plan.

LRE ensures that students with disabilities are educated alongside their non-disabled peers as much as possible and have access to FAPE (Free and Appropriate Public Education). Removal from the general education classroom only occurs if the disability's severity makes it necessary.

An IEP is a written plan that outlines the specific supplementary supports, services, accommodations, and/or modifications a student needs to access the general education curriculum to succeed in school. The CST case manager ensures the IEP is implemented and monitors the student's progress. The IEP is updated annually.

Starting at age 14, students eligible for special education receive Transition Services to help them identify their career interests, preferences, career path, and a plan of activities/strategies for reaching their transition goal(s). The transition plan is updated annually and incorporated into their IEP.