In order to provide effective educational programs and services to children and youth with educational disabilities, it is essential that personnel be qualified and required to advance their skills by participating in ongoing staff development. Collaborative efforts and communication with agencies, parents, school teams and community groups are necessary to ensure quality and consistency of services to children with disabilities. Accountability is the foundation inherent to quality services for children with disabilities. Effective teaching benefits all children. It is important to have the expectation that all children can learn.
Teachers have a significant impact on a child s whole life.
Collaboration between regular education and special education staff is a crucial factor in providing effective programs. Planning should include considerations regarding lifelong goals and transitioning into the community. A Guide for Parents are available through the Office of Special Education, the Partners for Success office and at each school. The Special Education Handbook is also available for public review at the Washington County Public Schools Instructional Resource Center. All copies will remain the property of the Department of Special Education and will be updated periodically to ensure continued compliance.