• The Special Services Department receives referrals for special education evaluation from a variety of sources.  A referral can be initiated by any staff person, parent, or agency.  For preschool-aged children, Child and Family Connections, other 0-5 year-old agencies and parents may make a referral.  Pre-K screenings may also result in a referral for evaluation.  For students of school age, concerns should be brought to the Response to Intervention, Child Study Team.  All referrals for special education evaluation should be given to the Principal of the home school of the student.

    Assessments are completed as needed for determining eligibility for special education services.

    Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) are developed for students requiring specially designed instruction.  Special Transportation is provided for students who require this to access the educational curriculum. Transition planning and supports are provided for students 14.5 years old and older.

    Department Vision Statement:

    To be a team of professionals that are knowledgeable of special education law and best practices in order to reach and support the goal of providing the best and most appropriate services for all students in a creative and safe environment that allows for individual success.

    Department Mission Statement:  

    To meet the educational needs of all students through equitable services and individualized instruction in the Least Restrictive Environment in order to prepare our students for college, the workforce and citizenship in the 21st century.

    • We believe that it is our responsibility to ensure that the educational rights of students and families are communicated and respected.
    • We believe in an inclusive philosophy of collaboration among stakeholders that will guide decision-making toward meeting student needs.
    • We value the Least Restrictive Environment opportunities for all students.
    • We value providing educational supports to teachers so that they can provide appropriate instruction, utilize technology, and have access to educational resources that enhance academic growth.
    • We value the unique needs and abilities of students and commit to enhancing instruction to meet the needs of their educational experience.

    Special Education Disability Areas in Illinois:

    • Autism
    • Deaf-Blindness
    • Deafness
    • Emotional Disturbance
    • Hearing Impairment
    • Intellectual Disability
    • Multiple Disabilities
    • Orthopedic Impairment
    • Other Health Impairment
    • Specific Learning Disability
    • Speech/Language Impairment
    • Traumatic Brain Injury
    • Visual Impairment

    Department Staff:

    • Audiologist
    • Auxiliary (class) Aides
    • Deaf/Hard of Hearing Teachers
    • Occupational Therapist and Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant
    • Orientation and Mobility Specialist
    • Personal Care Aides
    • Physical Therapist and Physical Therapy Assistant
    • School Psychologists
    • School Social Workers
    • Special Education Supervisors
    • Special Education Teachers
    • Speech Language Pathologists
    • Teacher of the Visually Impaired

     

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