“Special education” is defined by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (“IDEA”) as specially designed instruction, at no cost to parents or guardians, to meet the unique needs of a child with a disability, including:
(A) instruction conducted in the classroom, in the home, in hospitals and institutions, and in other settings; and
(B) instruction in physical education.
In New York State, children with disabilities qualify for special education beginning at three (3) years old until they are twenty-one (21) years old. According to the State’s website, Students thought to have a disability are referred to a multidisciplinary team (e.g., teachers, psychologists, and therapists) called the Committee on Preschool Special Education (“CPSE”) or the Committee on Special Education (“CSE”). The Committee arranges for an evaluation of the student’s abilities and needs. Based on evaluation results, the committee decides if the student is eligible to receive special education services and programs.
If eligible, the Student will receive an Individualized Education Program (“IEP”).