Special Education Overview

Vision
All students can learn and will achieve at high levels when they are provided the opportunity to engage in educational programming that is designed appropriately to meet their individual learning needs. The School District of Beloit is dedicated to identifying and meeting the diverse needs of each student through individualized educational programming so that our students with disabilities will achieve at high levels.

Mission
The special education staff in the School District of Beloit is committed to working cooperatively with families, students, colleagues, the community, and other professionals to support the success of students with disabilities at high levels of achievement, transition into adulthood, and in the student’s overall well-being so that each student has every opportunity to reach their fullest potential and is adequately prepared for life beyond high school.

Beliefs

• All students can learn and achieve at high levels. Each student's highest potential is unique to them.
• All students should be educated in a school community where everyone belongs, is accepted, and is respected.
• Students with disabilities are regular education students first. A student’s label does not define who they are or what they can do.
• Students with disabilities should be educated in the least restrictive environment.
• Each student’s least restrictive environment is dependent on their individual needs.
• State and federal law (IDEA) guides our practices. The law is not a choice; it is a must.
• The focus of the Individual Education Plan is to meet the needs of the whole child/student.
• A continuum of services offered both within and outside of the general classroom is imperative in bridging the learning gaps for students with disabilities.