Office for Exceptional Children

Safe Spaces, Smiling Faces

The goal of the Department for Exceptional Children is to provide high-quality instruction and specialized support tailored to meet the unique needs of each student with a disability through specially designed instruction and access to educational opportunities in the least restrictive environment. In alignment with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) guidance, we work collaboratively with schools, families, and community partners to ensure that all eligible students receive a free appropriate public education (FAPE) that promotes meaningful progress.

In accordance with the Library of Virginia General Schedule GS-21, special education records for students who graduate, complete a Board of Education program, transfer, or withdraw on or after July 1, 2024, must be retained for seven (7) years following separation from the school division. After the applicable retention period has expired, records are confidentially destroyed in accordance with Library of Virginia retention and disposition requirements. Long-term cumulative documentation required by the Library of Virginia is maintained separately in accordance with state retention schedules. Parents/eligible students may request copies of educational records prior to the scheduled destruction date.