Dec. 2, 2024
Celebrating National Special Education Day
Dear Team DPS,
December 2 is National Special Education Day, a day to honor the signing of the 1975 Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), a landmark law that protects the rights of students with disabilities across the nation. IDEA ensures that students with disabilities, ages 3–21, have access to a free and appropriate public education (FAPE)—a promise that transforms lives every day.
In DPS, it takes all of our staff members to bring the vision of IDEA to reality. From teachers, paraprofessionals, special service providers, mental health professionals, nurses, speech-language pathologists, occupational and physical therapists, sign language interpreters, building leaders, special education instructional specialists (SEIS) and more, dedicated professionals work together to support students with disabilities with a collective effort ensuring that every student is seen, valued and empowered. Collectively, our Special Education teams provide instruction, specialized services and support to all students with disabilities across the city of Denver including our DPS district-run schools, charter schools, iZone schools, center-based programs, homebound settings, extended school year programs, hospitals, facilities, day treatment centers and more.
I personally am deeply grateful for the dedication, expertise and heart that each member of our special education teams across DPS bring to their work every day, which is vital to helping students with disabilities grow, learn and flourish.
National Special Education Day is a time to celebrate, reflect and grow. Here are a few ways to honor this work and elevate inclusion and accessibility in your schools:
Deepen Understanding: Review IEPs with care to connect with each student’s strengths, passions and needs. Foster tailored support and meaningful relationships.
Continue Learning: Expand your knowledge on inclusive practices, assistive technology and accessibility through DPS resources, including:
Show Gratitude: Recognize your special education teams! Even small acts of appreciation can leave a lasting impact.
Today, we celebrate the progress made in special education and recommit to ensuring every student has the opportunity to thrive. To all special education team members and to all of DPS as we support students with disabilities: thank you for creating inclusive, welcoming spaces where every student can reach their full potential.
With deep appreciation,
Dr. Charlie Merrow
Director of Special Education