IHB:  SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONAL PROGRAMS AND ACCOMMODATIONS

(PROGRAMS FOR CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS)

The requirements of Chapter 71B and the Massachusetts General Laws (known as Chapter 766 of the Acts of 1972) and state regulations will be followed in the identification of children with special needs, in referrals for their evaluation, in prescribing for them suitable programs and in assessing their educational progress.  In keeping with state requirements, all children with special needs between the ages of three through 21 who have not attained a high school diploma or its equivalent will be eligible for special education.

The School Committee believes that all children with special needs will be educated in the least restrictive environment and will be given the opportunity to participate in the school system's non-academic and extracurricular activities.

The Committee recognizes that the needs of certain children are so great that special programs, special classes or special schools may be necessary.  When appropriate programs, services, or facilities are not available within the public schools, the Committee will provide these children with access to schools where such instruction and accommodations are available.

It is the desire of the Committee that the schools work closely with parents in designing and providing programs and services to children with special needs.  Parents will be informed, and conferred with, whenever a child is referred for evaluation.  In event of any disagreement concerning diagnosis, program plan, special placement, or evaluation, the parents will be accorded the right of due process.

The Committee will secure appropriately licensed and trained personnel to work with the children with special needs.  Since the financial commitment necessary to meet the needs of all of these children is extensive, the Committee will make every effort to obtain financial assistance from all sources.

SOURCE: MASC

LEGAL REFS.:            The Individuals with Disabilities Ed. Act (PL 108-446 adopted 12/3/2004)

                                    Rehabilitation Act of 1973

                                    M.G.L. 71B:1 et seq. (Chapter 766 of the Acts of 1972)

Board of Education Regulations, 603 CMR 28:00 inclusive

Adopted on:     April 24, 2008