Special Education

The Child Study Team is comprised of a Learning Consultant, Psychologist, and Social Worker. It works closely with staff, parents, guardians, and other resource personnel to identify students in need of special education programs or services. The testing, evaluation, and classification process is conducted according to the manner prescribed by law and code. For each eligible student, the Child Study Team develops an Individualized Education Program, commonly referred to as the I.E.P. This is a written plan which establishes goals and measurable objectives and describes the integrated, sequential programs, activities or services necessary to achieve the goals and objectives. Copies of the I.E.P. are reviewed with and provided to each child's parent/guardian.

•Multiple Disabilities/Autistic Program Students with autistic spectrum disorders and various physical disabilities receive specially designed instruction, which may link a functional curriculum to core curriculum content standards. Lessons and instructional methods are adopted according to the unique needs of each individual. Long Pond School supports increasing social opportunities for students with multiple disabilities and therefore, students are included in all domains of the school community with support as needed. Therapeutic support services are also incorporated within each Individual Education Plan.

•Language and Learning Disabilities Class The District provides programs for students in both schools who are eligible for special education and related services. These students may receive instruction within a self-contained class or resource center program taught by appropriately certified staff. In addition, these students are provided with a wide range of mainstream activities.

•Preschool Disabilities Program The District's is located at Florence M. Burd. This program is designed to meet the needs of children ages three through five. These children have an identified disabling condition and/or a measurable developmental impairment. They require and benefit from special education and/or related services.

• Speech Program A full-time Speech and Language Therapist is employed by the District to provide opportunities for students to develop into successful communicators. In determining eligibility for speech and language services, criteria are included in the areas of articulation, voice, language, and fluency.

•Resource Center Program Resource Center programs are mainly designed to provide in-class and pull-out support for students who are maintained in a regular class. Individual and group instruction is provided to students with disabilities.

•Other Services Students in need of services not available in our schools are placed in appropriate out-of-district schools. Tuition and transportation fees are paid by the Andover Regional Board of Education. Anyone seeking information about special education programs, activities, or services should contact Mrs. Margaret MacMurren, Child Study Team Coordinator, at 973-940-1234 ext.246.

•Procedures for Requesting a Child Study Team Evaluation Request for evaluation must be submitted in writing. Two (2) forms are completed by either the parent of staff member. One form is a documentation of interventions that have been attempted in regular education. These interventions are required by state law. The second form is an explanation of the reason for referral. This needs to be signed by the person requesting the evaluation. Forms may be obtained from the building principal or the Child Study Team.

Child Study Team (973-940-1234, extension 323)

Donna Preziosi Social Worker

Margaret MacMurren Learning Consultant

Sonja McKenna School Psychologist

Mary Weckler C.S.T. Secretary