Special education (Special Ed) programs are designed to support students with learning differences, disabilities, or other challenges that impact their education. However, some students may feel they no longer need these services and wish to transition back into general education. If you believe you’re ready to leave special education, it’s important to understand the process, your rights, and the steps to make it happen.
This guide will walk you through the process of exiting special education in high school, providing useful strategies and tips to advocate for yourself or your child.
Understanding Special Education and Your IEP
Before you begin the process of leaving special education, it’s important to understand how it works.
What Is an Individualized Education Program (IEP)?
An Individualized Education Program (IEP) is a legal document developed for students in special education. It outlines:
- Your current level of academic performance
- The services and accommodations you receive
- Educational goals tailored to your needs
- Support provided by teachers and specialists
Your placement in special education is based on this document, and exiting the program requires changes to your IEP.
Step 1: Evaluate Your Readiness
Before requesting to leave special education, ask yourself:
✔️ Have I made progress in my academic skills?
✔️ Can I succeed in general education classes without accommodations?
✔️ Do I feel confident managing assignments and tests independently?
✔️ Have my teachers or parents noticed improvement in my learning abilities?
If you can answer yes to most of these questions, you might be ready to transition out of special education.
Step 2: Talk to Your Parents and Teachers
Your parents, teachers, and school counselors play a key role in helping you exit special education. Have an open discussion with them about why you feel ready to transition out.
- Explain your reasons clearly – Talk about your academic progress and why you believe you can succeed without special education services.
- Ask for feedback – Your teachers can give you insight into whether they believe you’re ready.
- Discuss any challenges – If there are still areas where you struggle, you may need a gradual transition instead of an immediate exit.
Step 3: Request an IEP Review Meeting
To officially begin the process, you need to request an IEP meeting with your school’s special education team. You or your parents can do this in writing.
What Happens at an IEP Meeting?
During the IEP meeting, the school team will:
📌 Review your academic progress and performance
📌 Assess whether you still qualify for special education
📌 Consider input from teachers, parents, and specialists
📌 Decide if changes should be made to your IEP
If the team agrees that you no longer need special education, they may modify or remove your IEP.
Step 4: Undergo Reevaluation
Federal law requires that students be reevaluated before being removed from special education. This process usually involves:
- Assessments – You may need to take tests to measure your academic and cognitive abilities.
- Teacher Observations – Teachers will observe your performance in class to see how you function without special education support.
- Parent and Student Input – Your opinions and those of your parents will be considered.
If the results show that you no longer require special education services, you may be exited from the program.
Step 5: Plan a Transition
Rather than stopping special education services suddenly, your school may recommend a gradual transition. This can include:
✔️ Reducing the number of special education services you receive
✔️ Trying general education classes with limited support
✔️ Having regular check-ins with teachers or counselors
A transition plan helps ensure you succeed without feeling overwhelmed.
Step 6: Advocate for Yourself
If you believe you are ready to exit special education but face resistance, you can advocate for yourself. Here’s how:
- Gather evidence of your progress – Show your grades, test scores, or completed work.
- Express your goals – Explain how leaving special education will benefit your future.
- Seek support – Ask a teacher, counselor, or parent to support your request.
If the school denies your request and you strongly disagree, you have the right to appeal the decision through a formal process.
Step 7: Adjust and Seek Help If Needed
Once you leave special education, you may face new challenges in general education classes. Stay proactive:
📌 Ask for tutoring or extra help if needed
📌 Use study strategies to stay organized
📌 Communicate with teachers about any difficulties
If you struggle, don’t be discouraged. You can always request 504 accommodations (such as extra time on tests) without being in special education.
Final Thoughts
Exiting special education in high school is a big decision that requires careful planning. By evaluating your readiness, working with teachers and parents, and following the proper steps, you can transition successfully. Remember, you have the right to advocate for your education and seek the best path for your future.
Can I get out of special education if I feel I don’t need it anymore?
Yes, but you must go through an official process. This involves requesting an IEP review meeting, undergoing a reevaluation, and demonstrating that you can succeed in general education without special education services.