Changes in a student's classification will occur in August after the completion of Summer School. In recent years, due mainly to Public Law 98525, the Carl Perkins Act, an emphasis has been placed on vocational education for special needs students. Under the Carl Perkins Act, special needs students are defined as handicapped, limited English proficient, academically disadvantaged and economically disadvantaged. Economically disadvantaged students are those who qualify for free or reduced price lunches or who are wards of the court. Identifying students as having special needs is done so that special services can be provided to help them choose a job in a career area.
All students have access to appropriate vocational programs regardless of their special needs.
Students identified as having special needs will be assessed to find their strengths, weaknesses, likes, dislikes, and abilities. That information will be used by counselors and teachers to help the student choose a career area. If students are enrolled in a vocational class, help will be provided to them and their teachers so they can successfully complete the training.