The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) entitles every student with a disability to a free and appropriate public education (FAPE) in the least restrictive environment (LRE) through their local school district from birth to age 21. To ensure a FAPE, a team of professionals from the local educational agency meets with the student's parents to identify the student's unique educational needs, to develop annual goals for the student, and to determine the placement, program modification, testing accommodations, and other special services that the student needs. These decisions are recorded in a written Individualized Educational Program (IEP) plan. The school is required to develop and implement an IEP that meets the standards set by federal and state educational agencies. STMA TSES PlanRestrictive Procedures Plan
VISION: We will provide inclusive, individualized, and consistent programming that maximizes the potential of our students so they participate fully in their community and become lifelong learners.
MISSION: Special Education at STMA Schools is committed to inclusive programming where students, families, staff, and community partners obtain support as they communicate and collaborate to empower students to maximize their individual potential.
STMA District Special Education Advisory Council (SEAC)
Advises the Special Education Department on current issues, program development, parental concerns and involvement
Serves as an advocate for high-quality special education programs
Promotes communication between family, school, and community
The state requires all school districts to provide special education services to students with disabilities who attend non-public schools within the school district's borders. Other services for non-public school students are nursing services for students in grades K through 12 and guidance and counseling services for secondary students (grades 7 through 12). Districts must identify students who are potentially eligible for special education services, and, once identified, offer parents a plan for services. The public school district may provide special education instruction and services at the nonpublic school building, a public school, or at a neutral site other than a nonpublic school. The public school district determines the location, student by student.
