Overview of the Continuum of Special Education Services
March 04, 2007
The Scottsbluff Public Schools, through the Student Services Department, offers a full continuum of educational programs and services to eligible students. Eligibility is based upon meeting specific criteria, following the guidelines set forth by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Nebraska Rule 51, for one or more disabilities and a determination of whether or not special education is necessary for the child to benefit from the educational program. Although the law requires a student to have a disability label, the label does not determine the educational programming, services, or placement for the student.
The Scottsbluff Public Schools believe in providing services in the
least restrictive environment (LRE) appropriate for each student.
The LRE policy calls for students to be educated with their
non-disabled peers to the maximum extent possible. This means that
whenever possible the initial reference point for identifying,
planning, and delivering services for students with disabilities
will be their general education classroom in their neighborhood
school. Special education services are then provided in
instructional areas directly impacted by the student’s disability
based upon the student’s specific needs. Only when the student’s
unique educational needs and goals require more intensive
interventions will consideration be given to providing services in
other locations. A small number of our students need more
intensive, specially designed instructional programs throughout
much or all of the school day. These programs are available at
designated schools within our district and our local area.
Following a comprehensive evaluation, a student’s individual
education planning team will recommend how and where to best meet
the student’s special needs if the team decides services are
necessary for educational benefit.
