Exceptional Education Services

Welcome to the Exceptional Education Department of Cannon County Schools

Our Exceptional Education Department is committed to working with families, schools, and community agencies to ensure the implementation of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act (IDEA) by creating and supporting inclusive environments, services, and programs that offer opportunities for educational, social, behavioral, and emotional success for students with disabilities.

IDEA defines a student with a disability as one having an intellectual disability, a hearing impairment (including deafness), a speech or language impairment, a visual impairment (including blindness), a serious emotional disturbance, an orthopedic impairment, autism, traumatic brain injury, an other health impairment, a specific learning disability, deaf-blindness, or multiple disabilities, and who, by reason thereof, needs special education and related services. Tennessee state law includes in the above list students age 3 through 9 experiencing developmental delays and students who are intellectually gifted, as defined by the state; and who, by reason thereof, need special education and related services.

Our services are provided in the least restrictive environment for all eligible students (ages 3-21) through a continuum of options at no cost to families. Teachers and administrators work collaboratively to develop individualized educational programs (IEPs) that provide support ensuring students can successfully access the academic, social, and emotional opportunities available at school.

The Mission of Cannon County Schools

states: "We are committed to a comprehensive system of support to assure...the EVERY student reaches a high level of academic achievement." The department of Exceptional Learners is an integral part of this system, ensuring that all students with disabilities are provided individualized instruction and supports to meet their needs.