Specially Designed Instruction (SDI) is one of the most powerful levers for ensuring equity for students with disabilities. Defined under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act as adapting “the content, methodology, or delivery of instruction” to meet a learner’s unique needs and ensure access to the general education curriculum, SDI goes beyond general differentiation to provide individualized, targeted, and legally required instructional support for students with disabilities (See IDEA Part B, Subpart A,Section 300.39).
When implemented, SDI removes barriers that prevent students with disabilities from fully engaging in grade-level learning. Strategies such as explicit instruction, scaffolded materials, multisensory teaching, executive functioning supports, and gradual fading toward independence, create pathways for students to meet their IEP goals, participate meaningfully in the general education setting, and move closer toward post-secondary success.
Specially designed instructional strategies for students with disabilities should be determined by the IEP team using the full team’s comprehensive understanding of the students areas of strength as outlined in the students Present Levels of Academic and Functional Performance. This strength-based approach is inseparable from strong and purposeful collaboration. General and Special Educators must use information from all IEP team members including parents to co-plan, share responsibility, and align SDI with high expectations and standards-based outcomes. This shared approach not only improves instructional quality, but also strengthens inclusive school cultures where students with disabilities experience belonging, access, and rigorous learning opportunities.
Soon, the DC Special Education Cooperative will be launching a new cohort designed to elevate the skills of special education teachers and leaders. In the continued quest to improve instructional quality, the Co-op will use this opportunity to work with special educators across the city on strengthening the use of SDI to deliver high-quality instruction for students with disabilities. Stay-tuned as we work to launch our first cohort in the fall of SY26-27!