Special Programs

The Central Community School System offers quality educational programs, through the Special Programs Department, to all children with exceptionalities. Student needs are assessed through the evaluation process by Pupil Appraisal Services. Opportunities that provide assistance for each child to reach his/her potential in the demanding and ever-changing world of the 21st century, begin at preschool (ages 3-5) and continue through age 21 for children with disabilities identified according to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Program placement is determined by the Individual Education Program (IEP) team where consideration is given to the recommendations expressed in the multi-disciplinary evaluation and all team members.

Opportunities for Gifted and Talented students are available in the areas of Academically Gifted, Talented Theater, Talented Music and Talented Visual Arts at all levels, Elementary through High School.

Students who qualify under the Section 504 Rehabilitation Act receive services through the Individual Accommodations Plan (IAP), which is created by the school level team.

The goal of the Special Programs Department is to provide exceptional services from inquiry through service delivery… One Child at a Time… to ensure that each child reaches his/her potential.

Mission Statement

The Central Community School System assures that a free, appropriate public education (FAPE) is available to all children with exceptionalities, between the ages of 3 and 21, residing within the jurisdiction of CCSS. CCSS assures that all procedures for the development and implementation of the Individualized Education Program /Placement process and the Individual Accommodations Plan (IAP) process are followed.

The Director of Special Programs is responsible for the general supervision of identification and evaluation activities for students who are suspected of having an exceptionality. These include students with disabilities according to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) or the Section 504 Rehabilitation Act, and students with the exceptionality of Academically Gifted and students identified as Talented in the areas of Theatre, Music, and/or Visual Art. The work of the Special Education Department is conducted with care, integrity, fairness, patience, and respect for all stakeholders.

Guiding Principles/Core Values

To provide appropriate special instruction in the Least Restrictive Environment according to the Individual Education Program (IEP) for each student
To include all students in the regular education classroom environment to the fullest extent appropriate for each student
To include all stakeholders in planning and implementing the IEP/IAP process for each student
To assist schools in providing a safe environment for each student
To expect compassion, quality instruction and open communication from all service providers