Special Services
Overview
When a student experiences difficulties within the general education class-room and all documented accommodations and modifications have been unsuccessful, and it is believed that the student may have a disability, the student shall be referred for an evaluation to determine eligibility for special education programs and services. The Child Study Team, comprised of a school psychologist, a learning disabilities teacher consultant, and a school social worker, will determine a student’s need for a comprehensive educational evaluation.
A student’s eligibility for special education services is determined by the Child Study Team in consultation with the student’s parents and teachers, and is based on assessments conducted by the team. A student is classified “eligible for special education and related services” when it is determined the student has a disability that adversely affects educational performance and the student is in need of special education support and services. Eligible students are provided with an Individualized Education Program (IEP), which is designed to meet the diverse learning needs of the student.
Students with disabilities who receive special education services are afforded the same opportunities for course selection as students without disabilities. Course selection is driven by a student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP) and is delivered either within the general education classroom without support, in the general education classroom with in-class support, in the general education classroom with in-class replacement instruction, or through resource center instruction outside of the general education classroom.
Instructional, administrative, and other professional staff, parents, and state agencies, including the New Jersey Department of Education, may submit referrals. The school district complies with Chapter 14 Special Education New Jersey Administrative Code regulations pertaining to the special education process from referral, evaluation, and eligibility to IEP development, annual review, and reevaluation. Eastern Regional High Schools offer a full continuum of services for students with disabilities who are eligible for special education services. For more details, contact Dr. Mary Montgomery.