What is the primary role of related services in special education?

The primary role of related services in special education is to support children in achieving educational goals. Related services encompass a variety of supportive services that may include speech therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, counseling, and transportation, among others. These services are designed to assist students with disabilities in accessing the curriculum, participating in school activities, and making progress toward their individualized education program (IEP) goals.

The focus of related services is not merely to label students or classify their needs but rather to provide the necessary assistance and resources that enable students to succeed academically and socially. By facilitating the removal of barriers to learning, related services play a critical role in ensuring students can fully benefit from their educational experience and achieve their potential, conforming with the principles of inclusion and individualized support.