What is the Definition of Special Education in California?
By Michelle Ball , California Education Attorney for Students since 1995 Thousands of parents have their children in special education, but do not have any idea what "special education" really is. In fact their special education definitions can vary greatly as no one is out there giving them instruction or direction on the LEGAL definition of special education. There IS an actual, specific, legal definition, of "special education" outlined in both state and federal law. Per California Education Code section 56031(a) "Special education," is: " specially designed instruction, at no cost to the parent, to meet the unique needs of individuals with exceptional needs, including instruction conducted in the classroom, in the home, in hospitals and institutions, and other settings, and instruction in physical education." The federal definition, outlined in the United States Code, volume 20, section 1401 (29) [ 20 USC 1401 ], which is even more brief:...