Across DC charter schools, educators are beginning to explore how artificial intelligence (AI) can support the complex work of serving students with disabilities. Results from the Co-op’s recent AI and Special Education survey suggest the field is still in an early stage of adoption. Many educators reported experimenting with AI tools for tasks like lesson planning, creating instructional materials, and summarizing information, while also noting they want clearer guidance on how to use these tools responsibly in special education.
Survey Snapshot
- Many educators reported using AI primarily for planning and preparation, such as drafting lesson materials or simplifying complex text.
- A majority indicated interest in learning more about how AI could support specially designed instruction, particularly for differentiation and scaffolding.
- At the same time, respondents expressed caution about accuracy, privacy, and appropriate use, underscoring the need for thoughtful guidance and professional learning.
At our recent ELEVATE Conference, we explored this question through the lens of Specially Designed Instruction (SDI), the core instructional responsibility for students with IEPs. SDI requires educators to adapt the content, methodology, or delivery of instruction to address a student’s unique disability-related needs so they can access and make progress in the general education curriculum.
AI has the potential to support this work, but not replace it. As we discussed with educators at the conference, AI is a tool, not an instructor and not an IEP team member. Professional judgment still drives key decisions: interpreting IEP goals, understanding the impact of a student’s disability, and determining which instructional adaptations will help a student succeed.
Where AI can help is in the design process. For example, teachers might use AI to quickly adapt grade-level text at multiple reading levels, create vocabulary supports, or generate sentence frames to reduce linguistic load while maintaining rigorous content. AI can also support students with executive functioning challenges by helping teachers turn complex assignments into clear checklists or structured outlines.
For educators already managing heavy workloads, these tools can help streamline planning and free up time for what matters most: analyzing student data, collaborating with colleagues, and refining instruction based on what students need.
As schools continue to explore AI, the goal isn’t to automate teaching, it’s to strengthen educators’ ability to design instruction that is individualized, data-driven, and responsive to students’ needs. When used thoughtfully, AI can help teachers do what they already strive to do every day: design instruction that gives every student the opportunity to succeed.
