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| Special Education in Wilkinsburg |
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| The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) ensures that all children have access to a free, appropriate, public education. The Wilkinsburg School District's Special Education Department is here to assist and serve in educating students with special needs. If you believe your child may be eligible for special education services, please contact the department at 412-871-2114. |
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What is the special education referral process? |
| In order to determine eligibility for special education, an Evaluation Report (ER) will be conducted for the student, with parent/guardian permission, by a qualified professional, such as a state certified school psychologist. This ER will serve to determine whether the student shows a high level of need for individualized services and whether the student qualifies under 1 of the 15 categories as defined by state law. If your student is determined to be eligible for services, an Individualized Education Program (IEP) meeting shall occur. |
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What is an Individualized Education Program (IEP?) |
| An IEP meeting occurs when a student is found eligible for special education services. The IEP team consists of the student (if appropriate,) the student's parents/guardians, teachers, administration, staff, and others working with the student. The team meets to discuss the student's strengths and needs, as well as to develop the IEP document that outlines the student's educational goals. These goals will guide your student's education. IEP meetings shall occur at least once per year so that the team may review the student's progress towards the designated goals. |
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What services are offered through the Wilkinsburg School District? |
| The district shall service each student as determined by each individual's strengths and needs. In accordance with the law, the Wilkinsburg School District services students in the least restrictive environment where each individual student can be successful. |
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How can I find more information about special education, the district's program, and resources about services? |
If you have any questions in regards to the district's special education department or the regulations guiding services, please contact:
Ms. Dana Nowlin, Administrative Assistant
412-871-2114
nowlind@wilkinsburgschools.org
Ms. Kerry Francis, Director of Special Education
412-871-2121
francisk@wilkinsburgschools.org
Ms. Heather Clark, School Psychologist
412-871-2119
clarkh@wilkinsburgschools.org
The Special Education Department is located at the Wilkinsburg School District's Administrative Offices at 718 Wallace Ave. |
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PA Parent's Guide to Special Education
This informative brochure provides clear information to parents of children with special needs.
PA Parent's Guide to Special Education
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Resources for special needs students
The U.S. Department of Education offers numerous online resources to parents of children with special needs. This link takes you to the Department of Education's "Editors Picks" list of helpful publications.
My Child's Special Needs- Disabilities
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Office of Special Education and Rehabilitation Services
The Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP) is dedicated to improving results for infants, toddlers, children and youth with disabilities ages birth through 21
OSEP: Home Page
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More information on Individualized Education Programs (IEPs)
IEPs are the cornerstone of all special education programs. Click here for more details from the Department of Education on how IEPs work and what they must include.
A Guide to the Individualized Education Program
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