Sonderpädagogikgesetz

The Sonderpädagogikgesetz (SpäG), or Special Education Act, is a German federal law that regulates the provision of special educational services for children and youth with special educational needs. The law aims to ensure that all children have the opportunity to develop their full potential and to participate in society as independently as possible.

The SpäG defines special educational needs as learning difficulties, behavioral disorders, or physical disabilities that require special educational measures. These measures can include individual support, adapted teaching methods, or the use of assistive technology. The law also mandates that schools provide appropriate educational placements for children with special needs, which can range from inclusion in regular classrooms to specialized schools.

The SpäG outlines the roles and responsibilities of various stakeholders, including schools, parents, and educational authorities. It also provides guidelines for the assessment of special educational needs and the development of individual education plans (IEP). These plans detail the specific support measures required for each child and are regularly reviewed and updated.

The law is designed to promote the inclusion of children with special needs in regular education settings whenever possible. However, it also recognizes the need for specialized schools and institutions that can provide the intensive support required by some children. The SpäG is regularly updated to reflect changes in educational practices and to ensure that it remains effective in supporting the educational needs of all children in Germany.