Special Education

Special Education Services are designed to support student achievement in the least restrictive environment. Students receive specialized instruction and support within the general education classroom and/or resource room setting. Special education teachers collaborate and meet regularly with general education colleagues to carefully plan lessons. Teachers identify and implement effective instructional strategies while considering accommodations and modifications necessary for students to attain the goals and objectives specified on their Individual Education Plans (IEPs). 

When a teacher recognizes a student experiencing difficulty in school, he or she may refer the child to an intervention team. This team is comprised of general and special education teachers, the literacy specialist and other special services staff who meet regularly to review achievement data and plan interventions for students. Through the intervention process, teachers work together to assess student needs, plan specific intervention(s), and monitor progress to determine a student's response to intervention. If the student continues to have difficulty learning despite the tiered interventions, they may be referred to the Planning and Placement Team (PPT) for consideration of special education services. 

The PPT may recommend a comprehensive educational evaluation be completed, and when results are examined, it may be found that the child qualifies for special education services. All students who receive special education services have an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) developed collaboratively by teachers, related services personnel, administrators and parents. Goals and objectives are established and serve as a guide for specialized instruction. To the greatest extent possible, this instruction occurs in the general education classroom, where the classroom teacher works directly or in collaboration with the special education teacher to implement appropriate instructional accommodations and/or modifications. Students may also receive small group or individual instruction in a resource room depending on individual needs. Special Services Team meetings occur weekly to discuss educational issues related to the unique academic and social needs of those students receiving special education. 

The school psychologist, social worker, school counselor, speech/language pathologist, occupational therapist, special education teachers and administration participate in these meetings. Related service personnel work with students, faculty and parents to provide the necessary support services to maximize student learning opportunities at school. These support services generally include health services, counseling, community liaison work, evaluation and recommendations that facilitate student adjustment. 

The special education process is designed to be a collaborative process that maximizes the effort and expertise of all professionals who know and work with students receiving special education services. The goal of this collaborative team is to provide a successful school experience for all students.