The Denver Public Schools Department of Special Education cultivates and creates inclusive learning environments where students with disabilities feel a sense of belonging and have the opportunity to flourish while achieving their goals. With a focus on preparing students for successful futures in career, college, and life, we recognize that true equity requires intentional and proactive measures to ensure every learner has the opportunity and access to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. 

Through a comprehensive continuum of services, students with disabilities, ages 3-21 eligible under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), receive individualized support and instruction enabling access to grade level content and state standards. Dedicated to accelerating the trajectory of students with disabilities, we ensure individualized and culturally responsible support for students with disabilities through high-quality instruction in inclusive environments, ensuring holistic development, rigorous standards alignment, and promoting independence, student achievement, and community engagement.

Special education services at DPS are delivered through a range of settings based on the student’s individual needs. Alongside special education teachers, students may receive support from paraprofessionals, school psychologists, social workers, speech therapists, nurses, and other related service providers.

Our mission is to empower students with disabilities to acquire the skills needed for independent living and post-secondary success.

Contact the Special Education Department
Director of Special Education: Dr. Charlie Merrow
Special Education General Support: Email or 720-423-2400

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is a federal law designed to ensure that eligible children with disabilities receive a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE). This law mandates that states and public agencies provide special education and related services to more than 6.5 million infants, toddlers, children, and youth nationwide. IDEA governs the delivery of these services to children and youth aged 3 to 21 through IDEA Part B.

An Individualized Education Program (IEP) is a critical document for every child with a disability attending public school and receiving special education services. The IEP is custom-tailored to meet the unique needs of the student, aiming to enhance educational outcomes. It is developed in accordance with IDEA and, in Colorado, the Exceptional Children’s Education Act (ECEA).

Denver Public Schools Child Find seeks to support and ensure positive educational outcomes for all families in the city and county of Denver. Our team is here to provide you and your family with support, interventions, and next steps when concerns arise. All services are available for children three years old through age five who are not yet enrolled in a public or charter school. Screenings, evaluations, and school-based services for eligible children are all available at no cost to the family. More information can be found here and our intake phone line is 720-423-1410.