We work with families and school personnel to determine if a child is eligible for special education.

We provide accommodations, modifications, and related services to facilitate a child's access to education.

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SLPs are part of special education team by working with students with communication disorders. SLPs support IEPs by evaluating students and providing interventions/therapy during the school day.

Even though I don’t work directly with families or students, my role in public health often intersects with systems that influence how they access special education services. Understanding special education helps me see where policies and programs can better support inclusive learning environments and reduce barriers to care.

On a personal level, as a mother of a child with Autism who has an IEP, I’ve experienced the complexities of navigating both the health and education systems. That perspective shapes how I think about systems design and equity; not just as concepts, but as lived realities. It reminds me that every data point or policy decision ultimately affects a family trying to advocate for their child’s needs.

Support special dietary needs- allergies/food intolerances, texture modifications, menu modifications (diabetes), enteral feeding (use of a feeding tube), oral nutrition supplements

My discipline connects hospitals, schools, and community programs to provide coordinated care for children.

It improves access by expanding telehealth, guiding families through insurance, and making services more affordable.

It promotes fairness and inclusion through supportive and culturally sensitive policies.

It offers emotional help by creating counseling and parent support programs.

It empowers families and children to reach their full potential with compassionate and continuous care.

Nutrition is important both at home and at school. Special Education (e.g., feeding therapy at school) and IEPs can help students access preferred foods (if feasible and appropriate) and textures to ensure adequate nutrition.

A Registered Dental Hygienist in Alternative Practice (RDHAP) plays a vital role in supporting children in special education and their families by bridging oral health, education, and family systems of care. Through collaboration with IEP and school health teams, RDHAPs help identify how oral health impacts learning, speech, and behavior, ensuring dental needs are integrated into each child’s individualized plan. They provide preventive care in accessible settings—such as schools, homes, or community centers—while using sensory-sensitive approaches that respect developmental levels. RDHAPs empower families with education, adaptive tools, and home care strategies, helping caregivers navigate dental systems and access specialized resources. By advocating for inclusion, coordinating with interdisciplinary teams, and promoting self-care skills, RDHAPs help children thrive both in their health and educational environments, improving comfort, participation, and quality of life.