Page 51 - Overbrook Course Selection Guide

SPECIAL EDUCATION

Special Education - Introduction: The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and New Jersey
Administrative Code Chapter 6A:14 require that public school districts provide a free and appropriate public
education (FAPE) to all students classified as eligible for special education and related services. The course
selections for students with disabilities are finalized through the development of an Individualized Education
Program (IEP) that encourages collaboration between parents, students, teachers, child study team members, and
other service providers.

To the maximum extent possible, students with disabilities are expected to adhere to the same graduation
requirements as their non-disabled peers. When the nature of their disability is so severe that special education
instruction is warranted, it should address the same content area of proficiency as the general education
curriculum.

Programs:

When it is determined that a student with a disability cannot be successful in the general education setting, the
district will provide a continuum of alternative placements. Alternative educational placements include:

Resource Programs
The high school offers two (2) resource program options: in-class or pull-out replacement.
In-class resource programs provide specialized instruction or accommodations and modifications to the
instructional strategies and testing procedures within general education courses.

Pull-out replacement programs modify the general education instructional strategies based upon student needs as
determined by the IEP. Instruction will be provided in a setting that offers a reduced pupil/teacher ratio within
courses that include the core content standards.

Special Class Programs
When the IEP team determines that the nature and severity of the student’s disability necessitates more intensive
instruction, the schedule may include special classes for single or multiple academic or elective subjects. Each
special class shall serve students who share similar educational, behavioral, or other needs. Instruction will be
provided in a setting that offers a reduced pupil/teacher ratio.

Supplementary Instruction
Supplementary instruction may be provided to students with disabilities who receive primary instruction in
general education courses. This program offers a structured learning environment in which students eligible for
accommodations can complete homework, review class work, develop better study habits, process text material,
build basic skills and receive personal support and encouragement. Students in grades 9-12 recommended for
supplementary instruction participate in Study Skills as determined by their IEP.

Courses:
Special education course descriptions in specific curricular areas (i.e. English, Science, etc.) can be found in the
corresponding sections of this Course Selection Guide. The following courses include content that is
exclusively available to students eligible for special education services.