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

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

From Salon

For the next few years Buzzard and Melodee lived near family in Santa Maria, where Buzzard worked as a special education aide at a local school, according to Denes.

From Los Angeles Times

Across some of the largest special education and parent groups on Facebook, debate has raged about what this recent move will mean for disabled children.

From Salon

Students are taught by a team of credentialed special education teachers, licensed therapists, licensed speech therapists and others, according to the school’s website.

From Los Angeles Times

There tends to be a shortage of teachers credentialed in math, as well as science and special education.

From Los Angeles Times