Since SY2013-14, total special education enrollment has increased by 63%, rising from 10,613 to 17,318 students, while the total age‑eligible population grew by 20% (from 78,091 to 93,730). Although enrollment has risen across all special education levels during this period, growth has been driven primarily by Level 1 and Level 3 students, each increasing by 90%. Level 4 enrollment increased by 65% over the same timeframe.
In SY2025-26, all special education levels except Level 2 increased compared with the prior year. Level 3 enrollment increased by 10%, and Level 4 increased by 11%.
Change in Public School Special Education Enrollment by Level of Need, SY2013-14 to SY2025-26
Source: OSSE Audited Enrollment, SY2013-14 to SY2025-26 Note: Only students between the ages of 3 and 21 can qualify for special education status per federal requirements.
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