13: Special Education and Student Services
BPS101 provides student services and supports for students with academic, behavioral, social-emotional, health, attendance, disability-related, or other school-related needs.
Parents/guardians do not need to know which program, plan, or process applies before asking for help.
Families should contact the school if they have concerns about a student’s learning, behavior, communication, social-emotional needs, health, attendance, disability, or access to school. Families may contact:
- the student’s teacher;
- the school counselor, social worker, psychologist, or nurse;
- the building principal or assistant principal;
- the student services or special education department.
After a concern is shared, the school may review the student’s needs through the appropriate school process. Depending on the concern, this may include:
- communication with the family;
- review of academic, behavioral, attendance, health, or other school information;
- classroom-based supports or interventions;
- consultation with student services staff;
- referral to a school team;
- consideration of an evaluation, Section 504 Plan, IEP, health plan, behavior plan, or other support, when appropriate.
Eligibility for special education, Section 504, or other legally required services is determined through the applicable legal process. Parents/guardians may request an evaluation if they suspect their child has a disability or may need special education or related services.
Students with disabilities may receive supports or services through an Individualized Education Program, Section 504 Plan, health plan, behavior plan, or other school support plan, depending on the student’s needs and legal eligibility.
Parents/guardians receive required notices, procedural safeguards, and participation rights consistent with law and Board policy.
References
- Board Policy 6:120 – Education of Children with Disabilities
- Board Policy 6:140 – Education of Homeless Children
- Board Policy 6:280 – Grading and Promotion
- Board Policy 7:10 – Equal Educational Opportunities
- Board Policy 7:50 – School Admissions and Student Transfers To and From Non-District Schools
- Board Policy 7:250 – Student Support Services
- Board Policy 7:285 – Food Allergy Management Program
- Board Policy 7:340 – Student Records