Philosophy of Instruction
The Special Education Department adheres to the philosophy that each individual with a disability is entitled to the support necessary to maximize his/her potential. The Special Education department, in conjunction with classroom teachers and other educational personnel, are committed to the following objectives:
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To create an effective climate for learning by sharing all available information about a child’s disability pertinent to the child’s performance in an educational setting.
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To provide and implement district curricula with appropriate modifications and testing accommodations as stipulated on their Individualized Education Plan (IEP).
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To facilitate each student’s academic progress and social development by establishing appropriate goals and providing instruction.
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To support and act as a resource for classroom teachers working with students with special needs.
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To empower our students to advocate for themselves as successful independent life long learners.
Our educational expectation is for all students to attain the greatest academic achievement.
Pupil Services programs include the following:
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Autism Labs are self-contained programs taught by a special education teacher, with a combination of curriculum-based learning, life skills and behavioral supports designed for students diagnosed with autism.
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The High School Transitional Learning Program helps students learn independent living skills, practice interview skills, engage in job preparedness, and work at designated job locations.
In addition, Pupil Services contracts with approximately thirty out-of-district schools of special education for students whose needs are unable to be supported within the West Haven School System.