The Mission of the Department of Special Education Services (DSES) is to provide, implement, and monitor the delivery of a seamless continuum of services for students with disabilities from birth through age 21, to prepare for career, college, and community readiness.
DSES ensures a free appropriate public education (FAPE) to all students with disabilities in need of special education and related services. Services are provided in the least restrictive environment (LRE), in the home school to the maximum extent possible. DSES is responsible for the Division of Prekindergarten, Special Programs, and Related Services and provides oversight of all school-based special education services for students in prekindergarten through Grade 12. Services are implemented in a continuum of settings ranging from the general education environment, special class placements, public and private day schools, and residential day settings. DSES staff members share the goal of preparing students for employment and postsecondary education.
MCPS Services to Support Families
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In support of the core values of the MCPS strategic planning framework and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act of 2004 (IDEA), DSES is committed to promoting improved academic achievement for all students with disabilities. Parents/guardians are valued partners with students and school staff members in planning the student’s services through the Individualized Education Program (IEP) decision-making process. All decisions regarding the placement of a student with a disability in a special education service delivery model will be made by an IEP Team in consultation with the parents/guardians of the student and consistent with the LRE requirements of the Federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act.
Services Birth to 21 Overview: