Exceptional Education
Exceptional Education - Overview
The department encourages districts to prepare all students for Career and College Readiness. The programs, resources, and services included in these guidelines demonstrate best practices in serving Students with Disabilities as they transition from secondary to post-secondary activities such as postsecondary education, vocational education, integrated employment (including supported employment); continuing and adult education, adult services, independent living, or community participation.
The department promotes educational services and programs for all Tennessee's students with special education needs. The department is committed to systematic planning along with plan implementation, tracking, and accountability as a vehicle for providing the leadership necessary for fulfilling this purpose.
- Special education is not a place. It is the most intensive intervention along the continuum of service defined by individual need, services, and placement.
- Strong leadership at every level is the foundation of a collaborative and inclusive environment that supports ALL students.
- All students are general education students first. Every student can learn, demonstrate growth, and must have access to high quality, evidence-based instruction that maximizes their potential in the least restrictive environment.
- Educators are professionals, content experts, and the key to student success. They should be supported instructionally and professionally.
- All students can achieve postsecondary success.