Direct Services
Services & SupportsDefinition
Special education or related services provided directly to the student by a specialist (such as a speech therapist, occupational therapist, or special education teacher). Direct services involve one-on-one or small group sessions with the student, as opposed to consultative or indirect services provided to the teacher.
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Ask the AI About Direct ServicesRelated Terms
Services where a specialist (such as an OT or speech therapist) provides guidance, strategies, and support to teachers and staff rather than working directly with the student. Also called indirect services. The specialist consults with the classroom team to ensure strategies are implemented throughout the school day.
Supportive services required to help a child with a disability benefit from special education. Examples include speech-language therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, counseling, transportation, school health services, social work, and parent counseling and training.
The specific amount of time (in minutes per week or month) that each special education or related service will be provided, as documented in the IEP. Service minutes must be clearly stated — for example, "30 minutes of speech therapy, 2 times per week." Vague language like "as needed" is not acceptable.
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