Special Education
To qualify for Special Education Services, a student must have a disability that adversely affects their educational performance. Once a student qualifies for Special Education Services, the IEP team determines the level of support and which services the student needs. The Special Education Services available vary depending on the needs of the individual student. Students may also receive services from other providers for occupational or physical therapy and/or speech and language services. If you suspect that your child needs Special Education Services, please contact their guidance counselor or Kelly Flynn at (288-5011 ext. 3401).
In addition to the supports available to all, students with IEP’s will also have access to:
Resource Program
Students in the Resource program meet the regular graduation requirements with accommodations and modifications. One common Special Education Service is a supported study hall in the Study Center (Resource Room). Special Education Teachers and Education Technicians staff the Study Center. The services a student receives in the Study Center depend on the plan developed by the IEP team. Some common services include:
Additional instruction with academic material from regular education classes
Specially Designed Instruction (SDI) in reading, writing, math skills, organizational and study skills
Transition planning for after high school
Additional support services as needed
Each student is able to earn elective credit for the specially designed instruction he or she completes. 0.50 credit is based on forty hours of individual instruction based on the goals developed at the student’s IEP meeting.
Students with Unique learning Needs (SUN)
The SUN program is for students who require Specially Designed Instruction in practical academics and life skills. Each student’s program reflects the goals of the IEP with a clear focus on transition planning for the student’s life after high school. The curriculum includes individualized academics; activities of daily living such as meal planning and cooking, personal hygiene and social skills; along with community activities and employability skills. Inclusion in regular education classes is part of every student’s IEP. Support for extracurricular activities can be provided through the IEP.
Turnaround Achievement Program (TAP)
TAP provides intensive customized support for students with IEPs who are considering dropping out of school, are reintegrating back into school due to long-term suspension, expulsion, hospitalization or incarceration, or are on long-term suspension, have been expelled, or are engaged in some type of alternative education plan delivered on site, in the community or with the cooperation of a medical/emotional wellness facility. For more information contact Mr. Weaver at pweaver@mdirss.org or 288-5011 ext. 3197 Visit the TAP website for more information: sites.google.com/site/turnaroundachievementprogram/.
Gifted and Talented Services
GT services are based on a consultant model. We do not have a separate ‘program’. The GT specialist collaborates with teachers and guidance counselors to address the needs of highly able learners. MDIHS has a rigorous sequence of Honors and AP (advanced placement) classes that address academic needs. Music and art teachers provide advanced options for students seeking challenge in the fine arts.
Contact Dawn Burgess for more information.