Primer on Special Education

Abstract

Children who have required intervention in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) for prematurity, low birth weight, or medical conditions may require long-term services to optimize their success when they become school age. The specific type and level of intervention may vary across development. The purpose of this chapter is to provide a review of the types of services available to children throughout their school experience. Every child with a disability is entitled to a free and appropriate education (FAPE) under the Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA) from birth to age 21. Additionally, there are safeguards through Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act (Section 504) of 1973, which is a civil rights law protecting the discrimination on the basis of a disability in organizations that benefit from federal funding (e.g., schools). Modifications under IDEA and Section 504 will be reviewed.