special education

noun

: classes or instruction designed for students with special educational needs

Examples of special education in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The shooter’s mother, identified through public records as Shauntai Nickerson, spoke to NBC affiliate KTVZ of Bend in 2020 about her son’s enrollment in a special education program. — Tom Winter, NBC news, 16 Oct. 2026 Staffing shortages, teacher retention, class sizes, special education issues and improving communication with families are critical issues for Maldonado. — Sophia Veneziano, San Antonio Express-News, 16 Oct. 2026 Fort Worth parents of special education students are accusing Fort Worth ISD of breaking state and federal law by failing to provide services to students in a timely manner. — Lina Ruiz, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 14 Oct. 2026 Starting next year, student teachers pursuing credentials in high-need fields like science, math and special education will be eligible for an additional $5,000 stipend. — Tarini Mehta, Sacbee.com, 14 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for special education

Word History

First Known Use

1921, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of special education was in 1921

Rhymes for special education

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Browse Nearby Words

special ed
special education
special effect
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Cite this Entry

“Special education.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/special%20education. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

special education

noun
: classes or instruction designed for students with special educational needs

More from Merriam-Webster on special education

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about special education

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