Program of Studies - Acton-Boxborough Regional School District ...

Speech and Language Program
The Speech and Language program at the Acton-Boxborough Regional High
School serves students in grades 9 through 12 who have communication
disabilities. These disabilities include: language comprehension, oral expression,
social/pragmatics, articulation, voice quality and fluency. The speech/language
specialist provides teacher and parent consultations, screenings and diagnostic
evaluations, and educational/direct therapeutic services. Following an evaluation
and based on the development of an Individualized Educational Plan (IEP), the
speech/language specialist meets with students in accordance with the IEP. The
amount of support time, methods and materials used to meet students’ objectives
vary according to the age, interests, and special needs of the student. Students
are encouraged to participate in developing their own programs. Services to the
community include communication with parents and other professionals such as
physicians and other speech/language specialists.
Special Education Programs
Special Education services are available to students with identified disabilities
who require services in school in order to access their education until the age of
22 or upon receiving a regular high school diploma. Students experiencing
difficulty in the regular education program may be referred to the Student
Assistance Team (SAT) as part of the pre-referral process. The SAT may
recommend a screening or may refer a student for an evaluation to assist in the
determination of a disability. After completion of an evaluation, the Team
convenes to determine eligibility for special education services. The Team
consists of the student, parent, regular educator and related service providers as
required. If a student is found eligible for special education services an
Individualized Education Plan (I.E.P) is developed. Special education
regulations are implemented to provide a free and appropriate public education
(F.A.P.E.) as designated by the reauthorization of the Individuals with
Disabilities Education Act, 2004. Student needs are met through consultation,
support to the classroom and /or direct service, using both remedial and/or
compensatory approaches, with a goal toward appreciating and incorporating
individual styles of learning. Students may receive support in a variety of areas
as defined by their I.E.P. Programs may include a combination of services within
regular classrooms, specialized programs or learning center settings.
Collaboration among special educators, teachers, parents and students is
maintained for coordination of academic and social/emotional expectations,
classroom modifications and/or accommodations, strategies, and student
progress.
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