This bill amends the definitions related to special education in RSA 186-C:2, introducing several new terms and clarifying existing ones. Notably, it adds definitions for "Bureau," which refers to the bureau of special education support within the division of learner support in the department of education, and "Acquired brain injury," which encompasses brain injuries occurring after birth that adversely affect a child's educational performance. The bill also redefines "Approved program" to emphasize the school district's responsibility for all aspects of special education services, including the provision of specialized educational environments and supports. Additionally, it introduces the term "Educational environment" to describe approved special education settings managed by school districts.

Furthermore, the bill modifies the definition of "Special education" by changing "instruction specifically designed" to "specially designed instruction," aligning it with the Individuals with Disabilities Act. It also adds a detailed definition of "specially designed instruction," outlining its characteristics and requirements. Other insertions include the definition of a "Special education information system" for reporting special education data and student information, as well as clarifications on the term "Parent" to encompass various guardianship scenarios. The act is set to take effect 60 days after its passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 186-C:2