Special Education
Supports and Services
Special education is specially designed instruction created to meet the unique learning needs of a child with a disability, provided at no cost to families. It isn’t a place or a specific classroom — it’s a service and a set of supports tailored to help each child learn in the way that works best for them.
What Special Education Really Means
• It is individualized instruction, based on a child’s strengths and needs.
• It is governed by IDEA, the federal law that protects students with disabilities.
• It can happen in many settings — general education classrooms, small groups, resource rooms, or specialized environments — depending on what the child needs to make progress.
• It includes related services such as speech therapy, OT, PT, counseling, or behavior supports when needed.
Who Special Education Supports
Children MAY QUALIFY for special education supports and services IF they have a disability condition that affects learning, such as Autism, Speech or language impairments, Intellectual Disabilities, Emotional or Behavioral needs.
Steps to Help Your Child Access Special Education Supports
Before beginning the special education process, I encourage parents to take a moment to look through two key documents: the Parent’s Guide to the ARD Process and the Notice of Procedural Safeguards. These booklets explain your rights, the school’s responsibilities, and what to expect during evaluations and ARD meetings. Becoming familiar with them can help you feel more confident, informed, and prepared as you advocate for your child.
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The Texas Education Agency also offers a short Overview of Special Education for Parents online. It gives a quick, easy‑to‑understand look at how special education works in Texas and is a helpful starting point for families.
Early Childhood Services (Ages 3-5)
Children ages 3–5 who may need extra support can receive early childhood special education services through their local school district. These services are designed to help young learners build communication, social, motor, and early academic skills in ways that match their developmental needs. Support can be provided in a preschool classroom, in community settings, or even in the home, depending on what works best for the child. Families can request an evaluation at any time if they have concerns, and the school will guide them through the process.
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1. For children under age 3: Access services through ECI
Texas Early Childhood Intervention (ECI) provides services for infants and toddlers from birth to 36 months who have developmental delays or qualifying conditions. Families can refer themselves directly to ECI at any time.
2. For children age 3 and older: Access services through your local school district
Once a child turns 3, early childhood special education services are provided through the local school district, not ECI. Parents can request an evaluation from the district’s special education department.
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