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K–12 teaching and learning · from the UNC School of Education

Learn more about special education

Education Reference: Collection Policy
The purpose of LEARN NC's Education Reference is to provide definitions of common terms in K–12 education as well as information that contextualizes the terms and, where appropriate, links to examples and resources that will help teachers implement teaching ideas in their classrooms. These guidelines explain our policy for including entries in the Education Reference.
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Airborne and Special Operations Museum
Relive military history from World War II to the present through exhibits at the Airborne and Special Operations Museum.
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Poverty and special ed
Is there a correlation between poverty and disabilities in children? This article looks at the facts and explains why the numbers of impoverished children in special education is on the rise.
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By Kris Zorigian and Jennifer Job.
Minority representation in special education classrooms
Are minority students over-represented in special education classrooms? The evidence suggests that they are. This article examines questions about minority representation in special education and suggests some strategies to address the issue.
Format: article
By Kris Zorigian and Jennifer Job.
Response to Intervention (RTI)
Response to Intervention (RTI) is a multi-tiered model designed to combine assessment and intervention to maximize student behavior. With RTI, schools identify students who may be at risk for learning or behavior difficulties and monitor progress. The Council...
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By Jennifer Job.

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Programs serving students with mental and physical disabilities. Special education programs provide individualized education plans that detail services children will receive.

See also inclusion, pull-out.

Additional information

Models for special education range from self-contained special education classes to inclusion of children with special needs in regular classrooms with the assistance of a special educator.

Examples and resources

See Education Week’s issue page on special education for more information.