Special education is governed by numerous processes and procedures designed to provide your student with an appropriate educational program. You do not need to become an expert in all areas of special education to be a good educational advocate for your student. Having a firm understanding of the basic special education processes and procedures, however, will help you navigate each step along the way.

The following is an overview of 10 important steps in the special education processes that mark the progression of every student’s special education program. This list is not comprehensive; it serves as a guide to helping you understand where you might be in the process and what procedures may be applicable.