Specialized Education

A full continuum of Special Education services is available. Self-contained classes, resource programs and in-class resource are provided. Caring, creative, professional staff members continuously assess programs, make modifications and design new programs to meet individual student needs.

The department's goal is to provide students with a free, appropriate, public education in the least restrictive environment. Staff members are committed to providing the tools that will enable students to become successful and independent. The full continuum of services includes psychological, education and social services; speech, physical and occupational therapy. The department provides Extended School Year programs to prevent regression and recoupment. Programs are designed to meet the individual needs of disabled youngsters. Parents who suspect their child may have an educational disability should contact the building principal or guidance department for additional information.

Project Child Find was established by the New Jersey Department of Education as a free public awareness and referral service to assist parents and professionals in identifying unserved handicapped children from birth to 21 years of age. It focuses primarily on identifying pre-school children ages 3 to 5 years old who demonstrate physical, mental, language or emotional difficulties. Screening is provided and, if needed, the child is enrolled in an appropriate program. For information regarding referral service for children from birth to three years old, you may call 1 (800) 322-8174. The number is in service 24 hours a day, and all calls received are confidential.

Teaneck offers self-contained special education classes are available, grades Pre-K-6, for students who need intensive support and/or more than a half day of replacement instruction. The self-contained class provides a small, structured, nurturing and highly individualized environment with one teacher for all areas of instruction.

Resource programs provide students with direct instruction in substantive content areas (replacement classes), or support instruction to assist them in their mainstream course work via resource centers. This service is available PreK-12, whereas in-class resource support is designed for students who need minimal levels of support. That model of delivery is a team-teaching approach that uses a special education teacher and general education teachers. It enables classified students to participate in regular education classes to the maximum extent possible.

Transitional Counseling assists secondary-level classified students to identify their post-secondary goals, whether in employment or continuing education. Linkages are established with adult community agencies, such as the New Jersey Division for Vocational Rehabilitation and/or the Department for Developmental Disabilities. Students receive advice prior to high school graduation on tuition reimbursement for college or technical schools, housing possibilities, legal and medical services, etc. Through Interest Inventories and Profiles, job-shadowing and mentoring, students gain insight into their strengths and weaknesses, and develop those skills that lead to self-advocacy.

As a member of Region V starting September 2008, Teaneck has an opportunity for sharing services such as transportation and professional development. In addition, professional development for staff members will be provided throughout the 2010-2011 school year. Parent workshops are listed on Dr. Maureen Edwards' eBoard. Click the calendar tab for valuable workshop experiences.