Special Education in New Hampshire

In New Hampshire, every child with a disability is guaranteed a Free and Appropriate Public Education* (FAPE). Each school district is responsible for identifying children who have a disability that could interfere with their learning and for making accommodations for that child so that he/she may have access to the general curriculum and be able to participate with regular education students to the maximum extent possible. In the pre-school years, identification is attempted through the district's ChildFind program. During the schooling years, identification is customarily a result of a parent or teacher referral, but a referral can be made by anyone who is familiar with the child and is concerned about his/her academic success.  Once a referral is made, the Special Education Process begins.

*Free and Appropriate Public Education
Free appropriate public education (FAPE) means special education and related services that are provided at public expense, under public supervision and direction, and without charge in conformity with an Individualized Education Plan (IEP). This includes preschool, elementary school, and secondary school.