As a Special Education Director, ensuring that students with disabilities receive the support they need is paramount. One crucial aspect of this support is the provision of supplementary aids and services. But what exactly are these aids and services, and how do they contribute to inclusive education? Let's dive in!
What Are Supplementary Aids and Services?
The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) defines supplementary aids and services as:
"…aids, supports, and other services that are provided in the general education classes or other education-related settings to enable students with disabilities to be educated with non-disabled peers to the maximum extent appropriate…â€
In California, these are also known as Designated Instruction and Services (DIS). These services are essential for creating an inclusive environment where students with disabilities can thrive alongside their non-disabled peers.
Types of Supplementary Aids and Services
Supplementary aids and services encompass a wide range of supports. Here are some examples:
- Language and speech development and remediation
- Audiological services
- Orientation and mobility instruction
- Adapted physical education
- Physical and occupational therapy
- Vision services
- Specialized driving instruction
- Counseling and guidance
- Psychological services other than assessment and development of the IEP
- Parent counseling and training
- Health and nursing services
- Social worker services
- Specially designed vocational education and career development
- Recreation services
- Specialized services for low-incidence disabilities such as readers, transcribers, and vision and hearing services
- Work study
Why Are These Services Important?
Supplementary aids and services are designed to provide students with disabilities the opportunity to access the general education curriculum in the least restrictive environment. This approach not only fosters academic growth but also promotes social inclusion, allowing students to build meaningful relationships with their peers.
How Can TinyEYE Help?
At TinyEYE, we specialize in providing online therapy services to schools, ensuring that students receive the necessary supports without the logistical challenges of in-person sessions. Our services include:
- Speech and language therapy
- Occupational therapy
- Counseling and guidance
- Specialized services for low-incidence disabilities
By leveraging technology, we make it easier for schools to address therapist staffing shortages and provide consistent, high-quality support to their students.
For more information, please follow this link.
