Special Education

Federal law and state administrative rules outline a public school’s obligation to meet the needs of students ages birth through 26 years who are eligible for special education.  Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) outline the needs, accommodations, goals, and services for that constitute a Free and Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) in the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) for each eligible student.

Approximately 3,500 students with IEPs are served by Traverse Bay Area Intermediate School District and the 16 public school districts, 4 public school academies, and 12 nonpublic schools in the region.  Local districts provide a variety of consultative and classroom services.  TBAISD provides assessment, specialized consultation and direct services, and center-based programming in a variety of settings to enhance student growth and facilitate the transition to postsecondary opportunities.  Additionally, the ISD provides support to parents, professional development, and guidance to local districts to ensure that students with IEPs have every opportunity to succeed.