Special Education

Welcome to the Bridgeport Public Schools Division of Special Education/Office of Specialized Instruction 

As the Division of Special Education/Office of Specialized Instruction, we provide comprehensive support and services to meet the diverse needs of our students with disabilities ages 3-22. Our department encompasses Special Education and Related Services, Dyslexia support, and Social Workers, all working collaboratively to ensure every student has the opportunity to succeed. We are committed to ensuring that all students with disabilities receive a free and appropriate public education (FAPE) in the least restrictive environment (LRE) as mandated by IDEA. Under the Division of Special Education, you will also find the Department of Speech, Language, Hearing and OT Services and the Department of Psychological Services. 

Special Education and Related Services 
Through a continuum of services, our Special Education team is committed to delivering individualized educational programs tailored to the unique needs of each student. We offer a range of specialized services, including speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, and physical therapy, to support students' academic and developmental growth. 

School Psychologists
Our School Psychologists are essential in promoting students’ mental health and academic success. They conduct evaluations and develop intervention strategies to support students’ emotional and behavioral needs. By collaborating with educators, parents, and other professionals, our school psychologists help create a safe and supportive learning environment for all students. 

Speech, Language, Hearing, Occupational Therapy (OT) Services 
Our Speech, Language, Hearing, and OT Department is designed to support students with communication and sensory needs. Our speech-language pathologists work with students to improve their speech, language, communication, and hearing abilities while our occupational therapists focus on enhancing students’ fine motor skills, sensory processing, and daily living activities. These services are integral to helping students achieve their full potential in both academic and social settings. 

Dyslexia Support 
We understand the challenges that come with dyslexia and are here to provide specialized instruction and resources. Our team of experts employs evidence-based strategies to help students with dyslexia improve their reading, writing, and comprehension skills, fostering a positive and supportive learning environment. 

Social Workers 
Our Social Workers play a crucial role in supporting the social and emotional well-being of our students. They work closely with families, teachers, and community resources to address any barriers to learning, ensuring that students have the support they need to thrive both in and out of the classroom. 

Together, we strive to create an inclusive and nurturing educational experience for all students. We invite you to explore our services and reach out to our team with any questions or for further assistance.