Disability is a natural part of the human experience and in no way diminishes the right of individuals to participate in or contribute to society. Improving educational results for children with disabilities is an essential element of our national policy of ensuring equality of opportunity, full participation, independent living, and economic self-sufficiency for individuals with disabilities.
The Preamble to IDEA 2004
In District 54, we believe in excellence in education and in the dignity and uniqueness of each individual. In keeping with our mission of ensuring student success, we strive to address and accommodate the needs of students as they engage in the learning process. District 54 Special Services provides support for all students by partnering with building teams, parents and the community to ensure all students have access to our core curriculum, equal opportunities for advanced learning and a rigorous pathway of instruction that is responsive to their individual educational needs.
District 54 provides a full continuum of services for students who meet specific eligibility requirements outlined by federal and state rules and regulations. Decisions regarding implementation of services are determined by IEP and 504 teams at our schools.
The goal of special services is to support each eligible child and address identified individual needs. An Individualized Education Program (IEP) is developed in collaboration with parents, general education teachers, and special education staff on an annual basis. More information to understand special education rights and responsibilities can be found through the ISBE Special Education Parent Guide.
District 54 Special Services oversees the following areas.
If you, as a parent, have concerns about your student’s progress or are seeking information about an IEP, please contact your child’s school first as the school employees know your child best.
Restraint, time out and isolated time out
In accordance with the requirements set forth in 105 ILCS 5/2-3.130 and Public Act 102-0339, District 54 created an oversight team to develop specific plans that include procedures to reduce and eventually eliminate the use of physical restraint, time out and isolated time out (RTO) Restraint, Time Out and Isolated Time Out Plan.
Notification of release of records
HIGH SCHOOL TRANSITION
The most recent Evaluation and Individual Education Plan (IEP) and/or 504 Plan are District 54 student records. These records enable the high school district to prepare for your student’s transition from District 54 into high school. This notification provides prior written notice that District 54 will share student’s current Evaluation and Individual Education Plan and/or 504 Plan with District 211 as part of the transition process following the completion of 7th grade.
