special education

American  

[spesh-uhl ej-oo-key-shuhn] / ˈspɛʃ əl ˌɛdʒ ʊˈkeɪ ʃən /

noun

1. specialized or modified instruction for students with unique learning needs, especially students with identified disabilities. SPED

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Sensitive Note

See special.

Etymology

Origin of special education

First recorded in 1920–25

Example Sentences

Teacher morale is increasingly important as states continue to struggle with teacher shortages, especially in hard-to-fill jobs like special education, science, technology, math, engineering and bilingual education.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 10, 2026

His members include special education and teacher aides, cafeteria works, custodians, gardeners and bus drivers.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 17, 2026

Many benefit from behavioral interventions and special education services to help with learning and functional abilities.

From Salon • Dec. 15, 2025

Vicki Davis, a city council member and parateacher in special education, said her first-grade class of 22 students has only four white children, including one Ukrainian.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 7, 2025

“But I don’t pay any attention to the special education side of her because I don’t ever see it,” he said.

From "Drama High" by Michael Sokolove