District 94 provides a wide array of special education programs and related services. The services include the following:
Instructional and Resource Programs Study Strategies: instructional support for general education classes and student skill development, i.e. note taking, test taking and organization Interpersonal Communication: student skill development in group communication skills, and peer and/or adult relationships.
Community Living and Vocational Planning: student skill development towards functioning as an independent adult in the community.
Related Services provided include: speech and language services, occupational therapy, physical therapy, social work services, counseling, adapted physical education and transportation.
Special education placement is determined by a multidisciplinary team conference, which considers the student's past performance, the result of specific tests and the finds of specific interviews/reports. Special education concerns and referrals should be directed to Jane Cannata, Director of Special Education. The district will provide any assistance necessary to enable the referring person to meet the related requirements established by the district. At the time of the referral the district will provide the parents with notice of their rights with respect to procedural safeguards.
Special Education provides a continuum of services with a current Individual Education Plan (IEP). Following the completion of a full case study, a Multi-Disciplinary Conference (MDC) is held to determine each student's educational needs and eligibility for special education assistance. This placement is reviewed on a yearly basis and formaly through the re-evaluation process every three years.
Each Special Education teacher coordinates the services specified on the IEP for each student on their caseload. This is accomplished through collaboration, consultation, and direct instruction to ensure acess to the core curriculum in the least restrictive environment. As students succesfully acquire new skills, they are closely monitored for further challenges within their academic curriculum.