special education

[spesh-uhl ej-oo-key-shuhn] / ˈspɛʃ əl ˌɛdʒ ʊˈkeɪ ʃən /

NOUN

education for those with special needs

Synonyms

WEAK

compensatory education learning disability education remedial education special ed special needs education

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

“These kids could have been in the street or dead or not had the special education or help they needed.”

From MarketWatch • Jun. 8, 2026

Lynch, a former non-league football manager and founder of special education school NexGen Academy, was said to have suffered serious injuries to his eye.

From BBC • Apr. 7, 2026

In San Diego, the teachers’ union voted before winter break to authorize a one-day unfair labor practice strike on Feb. 26 if the San Diego Unified School District does not improve special education staffing.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 9, 2026

Many benefit from behavioral interventions and special education services to help with learning and functional abilities.

From Salon • Dec. 15, 2025

There was already a special education class in the school, but Charlie became the first kid with Down syndrome to attend Montgomery Middle.

From "Marcus Vega Doesn't Speak Spanish" by Pablo Cartaya