Special populations can be defined as a variety of students who may require extra support to be successful in school and beyond.  Students in special populations must overcome barriers that may require special consideration and attention to ensure equal opportunity for success in an educational setting. These students must be provided support that will ensure they have equal access to educational resources and opportunities.

Special populations may include, but are not limited to:

• Individuals with disabilities

• Individuals from economically disadvantaged families, including low-income youth and adults

• Individuals preparing for nontraditional fields

• Young mothers
  

• Out-of-workforce individuals

• Individuals who are experiencing homelessness

• Individuals whose parents are incarcerated

• Youth who are housed in neglected or delinquent facilities

• Youth who are in, or have aged out of, the foster care system

• Youth with a parent who is a member of the armed forces and is on active duty

• Individuals with migrant, immigrant, and/or undocumented status

• Individuals with other barriers to educational achievement, including individuals with limited English proficiency (English Learners)

Federal and state support is provided to the districts in the areas of monitoring and compliance. Schools and districts are assisted to ensure that the populations are proficient and showing growth in all assessed areas. These students should have access to high-quality early childhood programs, have effective teachers and leaders, and have educators who are able to effectively use world-class data systems to improve student outcomes. These students should also have the opportunity to graduate high school and meet college and career indicators.