Special Education and Support Services

Special Education Services

Children identified as having an educational disability will receive services according to the plan developed by the team with the parent(s).  Parents of new students with identified special educational needs should inform the principal upon transferring to the school.

In the event that an educational disability is suspected, teachers, parents or other specialists may request a disposition meeting to consider whether or not an evaluation is warranted. A special education evaluation helps to determine whether or not a child is eligible for special education services. For further information regarding the referral process, please contact your child’s teacher, the School Principal or the Special Education Coordinator.

Little Harbour currently has four special education teachers on staff. Additionally, there is a full-time speech therapist. District-wide personnel includes an Occupational Therapist (OT), a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), and an Adaptive Physical Education teacher. We currently contract with other outside agencies for services as needed such as Physical Therapy, Teacher of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, Educational Audiology, and Teacher of the Visually Impaired.  

Student/Parent Rights

Federal and State regulations require all school districts to notify parents and students annually of rights and policies regarding release of and access to school records, independent evaluations, prior notice, prior consent, due process procedures, evaluation procedures, least restrictive environment, and confidentiality in relation to educationally handicapped students and release of and access to school records for all students. You may receive a detailed copy of these policies and rights through the Principal's office or linked on the district's special education webpage. 

Speech and Language Therapy

A speech and language therapist is available to provide services to those students with identified needs in the area of speech and language. A speech screening tool is administered to all students in Kindergarten to help identify students in need, or at risk of needing services. The level of service is determined based on individual assessment data. The speech therapist may also act as a consultant to teachers and staff for students who are eligible for special education services, but exhibit difficulties in one or more areas.

Occupational Therapy

An occupational therapist is available to provide services to those students with identified needs in the area of motor skills, sensory or regulation skills, or visual perceptual deficits. In school settings, the OT works to build skills that are necessary for a school environment. The level of service is determined based on individual assessment data. In addition, the OT acts as a consultant to teachers and staff for students who are not eligible for special education services, but exhibit difficulties in one or more areas. 

Physical Therapy and Adaptive Physical Education

Referrals may also be made for Physical Therapy and Adaptive Physical Education for students who are identified as having gross motor delays and deficits through a special education evaluation.