The Special Education Department of the Needham Public Schools provides a range of special education services in accordance with state and federal regulations to meet the needs of students with disabilities who are eligible for special education. While a variety of options are available to meet children's educational needs, a goal of the district is the successful inclusion of children with disabilities in the general education classroom. Research and experience reveal that students of all ages benefit from socializing and learning side by side with their peers. The district strives to create safe, healthy classrooms in which all students can learn and benefit from skillful teaching, rich curriculum and engagement with their peers.
Concerned About Your Child's Learning?
Needham Schools offer many ways for students to get support for their academic, social and emotional needs. Your child's classroom or subject area teacher can be a resource to you if you have questions about your child's growth and learning. Guidance counselors and the principal or assistant principal are other resources for all parents. These staff members are available to answer questions, provide advice and further explore a concern you bring to them. Instructional supports are available in general education in each of our schools. These supports may be just the boost your child needs to find success.
There are times when staff or parents believe that a student's learning is compromised by a disability. Special Education provides an eligibility process for students who are suspected of having a disability. In order to determine eligibility, a focused assessment in the area of the suspected disability is completed by Needham staff. The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education provides several documents that describe educational disabilities and the process of special education eligibility determination.