Special Education
Chichiltah-Jones Ranch Community School is committed to providing an inclusive and supportive learning environment for all students. Our special education services ensure that students with disabilities receive the resources, accommodations, and support needed to thrive academically and socially. Our programs comply with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, guaranteeing equal educational opportunities for all students.
Our Commitment to Special Education
We recognize that each student is unique and strive to provide tailored support through:
- Individualized Education Programs for students eligible under IDEA.
- 504 Plans for students who require accommodations due to disabilities.
- Specialized instruction and support services designed to meet each student’s specific needs.
- Access to extracurricular activities with necessary accommodations.
Understanding IDEA and Section 504
Individuals with Disabilities Education Act
IDEA ensures that students with disabilities receive a free and appropriate public education in the least restrictive environment. If your child qualifies under IDEA, they will receive an Individualized Education Program, which outlines specific services and goals tailored to their needs.
Disciplinary actions for students with IEPs follow federal guidelines to ensure fairness and compliance with procedural safeguards.
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act
Section 504 protects students from discrimination based on disability. Suppose a student has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities. In that case, they may qualify for a 504 Plan, which provides necessary accommodations to support their education.
Our school is responsible for identifying, evaluating, and providing services to eligible students under Section 504.
Student Rights and Parent/Guardian Resources
Section 504 Rights and Procedural Safeguards
As an eligible student with a disability, you have the right to:
- Participate in and benefit from the school’s educational programs without discrimination based on disability.
- Receive needed accommodations under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act.
- Participate in nonacademic and extracurricular activities with appropriate support.
- Access services comparable to those provided to students without disabilities.
- Receive accommodations, auxiliary aids, and services at no cost to support participation in school activities. This excludes educational aids unrelated to the student’s disability, for which fees apply to all parents/guardians.
- Receive special education services, if needed.
Educational Records Rights
As a parent/guardian or student, you have the right to:
- Examine all relevant records relating to decisions regarding the student's identification, evaluation, educational program, and placement.
- Obtain copies of educational records at a reasonable cost if the fee does not effectively deny access to the records.
- There is no charge for records if the cost prevents the student or parent/guardian from reviewing the records.
- Request amendments to the student’s educational records if there is reasonable cause to believe that they are inaccurate, misleading, or violate the student's privacy rights.
- If the school refuses an amendment request, it must notify the student or parent/guardian and advise them of the right to a hearing within a reasonable time.
- Receive explanations and interpretations of the student’s educational records.
Discipline and Special Education Students
Students with disabilities are subject to the school’s discipline policies, but special considerations apply.
If a disciplinary action (such as long-term suspension) may result in a change of placement, the school will conduct a manifestation determination meeting to assess whether the behavior was related to the student’s disability.
If the behavior is determined to manifest the disability, the school will collaborate with parents and educators to adjust the student’s education plan accordingly.
How to Access Special Education Services
If you believe your child may need special education services or accommodations, follow these steps:
- Contact the school’s Special Education or Section 504 Coordinator.
- Request an evaluation to determine IEP or 504 Plan eligibility.
- Participate in meetings to discuss evaluations and service plans.
- Collaborate with teachers and staff to provide the best learning experience for your child.
Contact Information
Chichiltah-Jones Ranch Community School provides an equitable and inclusive education for every student. Please contact our team with any questions or concerns regarding special education services.
504 Coordinator
Chichiltah-Jones Ranch Community School
Phone: (505) 778-5574
Additional Resources
For additional information about procedural safeguards, policies, and parental rights, please visit:
