Special Education Instruction

Meeting the unique needs of our students with disabilities.

FCPS is committed to providing inclusive and individualized education for all students, including those with special needs. Our Special Education Instruction program is designed to meet the diverse needs of students with disabilities, ensuring they receive the support and resources necessary to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. Our team of dedicated special education teachers, specialists, and support staff work closely with families to create personalized learning plans tailored to each student's unique strengths and challenges. FCPS believes in fostering an inclusive environment where every student is empowered to reach their full potential.

FCPS offers a wide range of services, including individualized instruction, speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, and behavioral support. We utilize evidence-based practices and cutting-edge technology to engage students in meaningful learning experiences that promote growth and independence. Collaboration is at the heart of our approach, with regular communication between teachers, parents, and specialists to ensure that each student's educational journey is aligned with their goals and needs. FCPS is dedicated to creating an environment where every child can succeed, no matter their learning style or ability.

Forms Related to Special Education and Instruction

Find essential forms related to our Special Education and Instruction services. These documents are designed to help guide the process of securing and customizing educational support for students with special needs. Whether you are initiating a referral, updating an Individualized Education Plan (IEP), or requesting specific accommodations, these forms provide the necessary tools to ensure your child receives the appropriate resources and support.

Forms Related to Special Education

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Adapted Curriculum, PreK-12

Providing direct and indirect support to schools in the instruction of students with significant cognitive disabilities who are accessing an adapted curriculum.

Adapted Physical Education Services

Adapted physical education modifies the physical education curriculum to meet the needs of students with disabilities.

cut outs of hands on construction paper.

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Program

Supporting the special education instruction of students with autism and related disorders through the use of principles of ABA.

Assistive Technology Services (ATS)

Every school has an assistive technology coach who works with school teams to incorporate devices, software, or equipment used by individuals with disabilities to perform functions that might otherwise be difficult or impossible. Learn about accessible instructional materials, support for students…

Behavior Intervention Services

Learn about our comprehensive behavior interventions and supports to meet the needs of a broad range of students. Includes information on our behavior support webinar series for families.

students working with teacher in technical education class

Career and Transition Services

Career and Transition Services supports students as they prepare to transition to a variety of postsecondary options.

Teacher with students around a table in a classroom

High Incidence Disabilities Team, K-12

Supporting schools through a variety of models, including trainings, in-services, workshops, facilitated team meetings, and individual coaching.

Medicaid Reimbursement Program

FCPS can bill Medicaid for eligible services provided to Medicaid- and FAMIS-eligible students with disabilities.

Occupational Therapy Services

Occupational therapists work to address a student's ability to access and participate in school activities.

Physical Therapy Services

Our physical therapists work to assure that students in special education benefit from their educational programs.

Services for Students Who Are Blind or Visually Impaired

We serve students ages 2-22 who require specialized instruction and support with a variety of visual impairments.

Services for Students Who Are Deaf or Hard of Hearing

Educational services for hearing-impaired students are provided through itinerant services and site-based programs to eligible students.

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Special Education Procedural Support

Responsive, student-centered, collaborative guidance and leadership related to the implementation of and compliance with federal, state, and local regulations as they pertain to special education.

Photo of a speech pathologist working with a student.

Speech and Language Services

Speech and language pathologists help develop effective communication skills so that students may participate in school.

Twice Exceptional (2e) Learners and Dyslexia

Some students who have been identified as 2e are gifted students with dyslexia.

Accommodations and Modifications

Information to assist school teams in determining if provided supports should be considered an accommodation or a modification.

Assessment Options for Students with Disabilities

Students with disabilities have several options for participating in the regular state accountability assessments.

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Special Education Resource Fair

A virtual fair with asynchronous training for families and community members who have students with disabilities.

Special Education Program Sites

2024-25 Specialized Special Education Program Sites by Region

Inclusive Education

FCPS supports the right of every student, regardless of ability, to access and participate in their school and community.

Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS)

PBIS offers research-based, school-wide, and classroom discipline systems to benefit all students.