IHB Special Instructional Programs and Accommodations

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONAL PROGRAMS AND ACCOMMODATIONS

(PROGRAMS FOR CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS)

The goals of this school system’s special education program are to allow each child to grow and achieve at his/her own level, to gain independence and self-reliance, and to function in the mainstream of school society as soon as possible.

The requirements of law and regulation 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 most children with special needs can be educated in the regular school program if they are given special instruction, accommodations and the support they need. These children should also be given fair and reasonable 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 for children with special needs. Parents will be informed, and conferred with, whenever a child is referred for evaluation. In the 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 properly 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.

LEGAL REFS.:

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (PL 94-142 adopted 1/1/91)

Rehabilitation Act of 1973 as amended

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

Board of Education Chapter 766 Regulations, adopted 10/74, as amended through 7/1/81

603 CMR 28:00 inclusive

Approved by School Committee October 21, 2019