special education

American

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

noun

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

Sensitive Note

See special.

Etymology

Origin of special education

First recorded in 1920–25

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

“These kids could have been in the street or dead or not had the special education or help they needed.”

From MarketWatch • Jun. 8, 2026

It was when Vicky was 18 and leaving special education that the family faced another round of challenges.

From BBC • May 14, 2026

She persevered and graduated from a high school special education program, then attempted community college.

From Salon • Apr. 29, 2026

San Diego on Friday averted a one-day teachers strike planned later this month over union demands for more special education staffing.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 13, 2026

“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

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023