Introduction to Special Education and Special Populations (5 Credit Hours) is a self-paced course that introduces educators to the foundations of special education, inclusive practices, and the needs of diverse learners.

Participants explore key concepts, legal frameworks, and practical strategies for supporting students with disabilities and other special populations. Completion includes a certificate for 5 professional development credit hours.

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This course qualifies for CDE compliance with HB 20-1128 and HB 20-1312 requirements for licensure renewal (see below).

As result of HB 20-1128 and HB 20-1312:

• Special services providers, principals and administrators are required to complete a minimum of 10 contact hours of professional learning in:

  • Increasing awareness of laws and practices pertaining to educating students with disabilities in the classroom, including but not limited to Child Find and inclusive learning environments.

• Teachers are required to complete a minimum of 10 contact hours of professional learning - with a minimum of one (1) contact hour in each area - in:

  • Behavioral health that is culturally responsive and trauma- and evidence-informed; and

  • Increasing awareness of laws and practices pertaining to educating students with disabilities in the classroom, including but not limited to Child Find and inclusive learning environments.

This course provides educators, administrators, and support staff with a comprehensive understanding of Child Find obligations in Colorado under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Participants will explore the legal requirements, processes, and practical considerations for identifying, locating, and evaluating students who may have disabilities.

The course emphasizes Colorado-specific guidance while building a strong foundation in federal law, including timelines, referral processes, evaluation procedures, and the responsibilities of school districts and educators. Participants will also examine common misconceptions, equity considerations, and the risks associated with delayed or inadequate identification.

By the end of this course, educators will understand their role in ensuring that all students who may require special education services are appropriately identified and supported.

Learning Objectives

• Define Child Find under IDEA and Colorado law

• Explain the legal obligations of school districts regarding identification of students with disabilities

• Identify who qualifies under Child Find, including students in public, private, homeschool, and highly mobile populations

• Describe the referral process for special education evaluation in Colorado

• Understand timelines and procedural requirements for evaluation and eligibility determination

• Differentiate between MTSS and Child Find responsibilities

• Identify early warning signs that may indicate a need for evaluation

• Explain the role of general education teachers in the Child Find process

• Understand parental rights and procedural safeguards related to Child Find

• Analyze common delays and barriers to identification and their impact on students

• Recognize equity considerations in Child Find, including disproportionality and under-identification

• Explain documentation requirements and best practices for compliance

This course meets the Colorado Department of Education Special Education and Behavioral Health Licensure Renewal Requirements.

One pass. One year. Unlimited Access. Endless Possibilities.

The Bright Path PD All Access Pass gives you everything you need to grow your practice—without the cost, complexity, or limitations of traditional professional development.

For one low, fixed price, you’ll get unlimited access for a full year to our library of high-quality, practical, research-based courses designed for real educators in real classrooms. No subscriptions. No renewals. No piecing together credits one course at a time.

Whether you’re working in a K–12 school, homeschool setting, microschool, or flexible learning environment, you can learn on your schedule, at your pace, and focus on what matters most—supporting your students.

No gimmicks. No auto-renewals. Just access.

Directions for purchase:

1. Add to cart

2. Complete Purchase

3. You will receive a download with next steps including a code that will be emailed to you within 24 hours.