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Exceptional Student Learners

Students learning in classroom.

Broward County Public Schools serve over 32,000 students with disabilities and offers a free and appropriate public education for all students. Services and programs are available to meet the individual needs of students eligible for special education and related services, ages 3 through 22. Eligible students are provided supports and/or services as per their Individual Education Plan (IEP) that are based on each child’s unique needs. Learn more by visiting Exceptional Student Learning Support on browardschools.com.

Banyan Intensive Preschool

A student holding artwork of a paper snowman.

This model features a highly structured, language-enriched classroom environment with a strong focus on consistent routines and targeted interventions. The curriculum emphasizes communication, social-emotional growth, independent functioning, and pre-academic skills. Teachers use evidence-based strategies and individualized instruction to promote meaningful progress. The intensive nature of this program ensures that children receive frequent, focused guidance to build essential skills for learning, communication, and everyday independence.

Autism Special Program (K-4)

The Autism Special Program classes offer a structured, supportive learning environment for elementary students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) who qualify for Exceptional Student Education (ESE) services. Instruction follows the Florida State Standards, ensuring access to grade-level curriculum while addressing each student’s individual learning needs.
The program focuses on developing communication, social interaction, self-regulation, and independent functioning skills through evidence-based strategies and individualized supports. Classrooms use consistent routines, visual aids, and positive behavior systems to create a predictable and engaging environment that promotes student success.

Students in the Special Program receive specialized instruction in a small-group setting and participate with general education peers as appropriate, based on their Individualized Education Plan (IEP). These inclusion opportunities allow students to practice academic and social skills in real-world contexts while benefiting from targeted support. The goal of the program is to help students build confidence, independence, and the skills necessary for success both in school and in the community.

Specialized Preschool

Student on a slide.

The Specialized Preschool program offers a self-contained, language-based learning environment designed for children who qualify for Exceptional Student Education (ESE) services, including those with developmental delays. The curriculum emphasizes readiness skills, communication development, social interaction, and independent functioning. Instruction is tailored to meet each child’s unique needs in areas such as cognitive growth, language acquisition, social-emotional development, and daily living skills. The goal is to foster foundational abilities that prepare children for future academic success and greater independence within a nurturing and structured setting.