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Manhattan Public Schools

 
Special Education Overview
 
Special education is designed to provide specially designed instructional services to meet the unique needs of students with disabilities, ensuring they receive a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) in the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) in accordance with the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).

Identification and Evaluation

School districts are responsible for identifying children who may require special education services. This process involves a comprehensive educational evaluation to determine eligibility and the specific services needed.

Individualized Education Program (IEP)

For each eligible student, an Individualized Education Program (IEP) is developed. The IEP outlines the student's current performance, specific educational goals, necessary accommodations, and the services to be provided. Parents are integral members of the IEP team, collaborating with educators to design a program that addresses their child's unique needs.

Service Delivery
 
Students with disabilities are educated in their least restrictive environment alongside their non-disabled peers. Special education services may include specially designed instruction in areas such as reading, mathematics, written expression, social-emotional-behavior, and self-help/independence. Related services may include speech, occupational and/or physical therapy,  in addition to IEP accommodations and supplementary aids and services to support students who qualify for special education to make expected educational progress.

Parental Rights and Involvement
 
Parents have the right to participate in all meetings related to the identification, evaluation, and educational placement of their child. They are entitled to access their child's educational records and must provide informed consent before any evaluations or services commence. Procedural safeguards are in place to protect these rights and ensure that any disputes can be resolved through established processes.

For more information, contact:

Kristie Pierce
Special Education Director
kpierce@mhstigers.org
406-284-6460