What is Specially Designed Instruction?

SDI is defined as “adapting, as appropriate to the needs of an eligible child under this chapter, the content, methodology, or delivery of instruction:

(1) To address the unique needs of the child that result from the child’s disability; and

(2) To ensure access of the child to the general curriculum, so that the child can meet the educational standards within the jurisdiction of the public agency that apply to all children."

Special education provides students with disabilities SDI to meet their unique learning needs. This includes: 

• • Vocational education: organized educational programs that are directly related to the preparation of individuals for paid or unpaid employment, or for additional preparation for a career not requiring a baccalaureate or advanced degree, and, 

  • Transition Services that are based on the individual child's needs, taking into account the child's strengths, preferences, and interests; and includes—

(i) Instruction;

(ii) Related services;

(iii) Community experiences;

(iv) The development of employment and other post-school adult living objectives; 

(v) If appropriate, acquisition of daily living skills and provision of a functional vocational evaluation.

• Appropriate measurable postsecondary goals based upon age appropriate transition assessments related to training, education, employment, and, where appropriate, independent living skills; and

• The transition services and courses of study needed to assist the child in reaching those goals.

34 C.F.R. §300.39(3); §300.43; §300.320