Programs and Services

 

The Elizabeth Forward School District offers a variety of programs and services to help students succeed. Special education is a service and not a place or a room. We strive to provide our programs and services in an inclusive setting. We believe that students should be with their same aged peers and have access to the general education curriculum to the greatest extent possible.

 

Our programs include:

 

Learning support. Services for students with a disability who require services primarily in the areas of reading, writing, mathematics, or speaking or listening skills related to academic performance.

 

Emotional support. Services for students with a disability who require services primarily in the areas of social or emotional skills development or functional behavior.

 

Life skills support. Services for students with a disability who require services primarily in the areas of academic, functional or vocational skills necessary for independent living.

 

Autistic support. Services for students with the disability of autism who require services to address needs primarily in the areas of communication, social skills or behaviors consistent with those of autism spectrum disorders. needs addressed may include, as appropriate, the verbal and nonverbal communication needs of the child; social interaction skills and proficiencies; the child's response to sensory experiences and changes in the environment, daily routine and schedules; and, the need for positive behavior supports or behavioral interventions.

Speech and language support. Services for students with speech and language

 

Our district provides additional services and supports through the Allegheny Intermediate Unit:

 

Blind-visually impaired support. Services for students with the disability of visual impairment including blindness, who require services to address needs primarily in the areas of accessing print and other visually-presented materials, orientation and mobility, accessing public and private accommodations, or use of assistive technologies designed for individuals with visual impairments or blindness.

 

Deaf and hard of hearing support. Services for students with the disability of deafness or hearing impairment, who require services to address needs primarily in the area of reading, communication, accessing public and private accommodations or use of assistive technologies designed for individuals with deafness or hearing impairment. For these students, the IEP must include a communication plan to address the language and communication needs, opportunities for direct communications with peers and professional personnel in the child's language and communication mode, academic level, and full range of needs, including opportunities for direct instruction in the child's language and communication mode; and assistive technology devices and services.

 

Occupational/Physical Therapy. The primary goal of the related service is to ensure that students are able to access their educational curriculum and environment. Therapists promote access by helping students attain optimal occupational and/or physical performance in their student roles.