Q: My child is in special education and on their Individualized Education Program (IEP), there are some services listed as direct and other services listed as indirect. What’s the difference?
A: Direct services are services provided directly to a student by a special education teacher or other service provider such as a speech therapist or occupational therapist. These are often provided in a small group and can be described as “eyes on” the student. Indirect services are not provided directly to a student. They often take the form of a specialist teaching a teacher or aide how to do something, consulting with a teacher or service provider, modifying coursework, observation, monitoring equipment, and training on assistive technology. Both direct and indirect services are based on a student’s needs and are listed specifically on the IEP.
Additional questions? Please call us at 952.920.0855
The Arc promotes and protects the human rights of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, actively supporting them and their families in a lifetime of full inclusion. Learn more about The Arc
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