SPECIAL EDUCATION SUPPORT SERVICES
- Autistic Support
- Emotional Support
- Learning Support
- Life Skills Support
- Multiple Disabilities Support
- Occupational Therapy
- Physical Therapy
- Speech & Language Support
PROGRAMS FOR ELIGIBLE STUDENTS
In compliance with state and federal law, notice is hereby given by the Middletown Area School District that it conducts ongoing identification activities as part of its school program for the purposes of identifying students who may need special education and related services (eligible students). If your student is identified by the District as possibly in need of such services, you will be notified of applicable procedures.
If you believe that your school age student may need special education services, there are processes designed to assess the needs of the student and their eligibility. These services are available to parents at no cost. You may request screening and evaluation at any time, whether or not your student is enrolled in the District’s public school program.
PROTECTED HANDICAPPED STUDENTS
The Middletown Area School District provides related services or accommodations to all students identified as protected handicapped in accordance with state and federal law. These services are provided without discrimination or cost to the student or family. To qualify as a protected handicapped student, the student must be of school age with a physical or mental disability, which substantially limits or prohibits participation in or access to an aspect of the school program.
These services and accommodations for protected handicapped students are distinct from those applicable to students with disabilities who are eligible for special education programs or services. If a student is eligible for special education, accommodations and services are provided through the development of an Individualized Educational Program (IEP) rather than through the development of a service plan under Federal Law 504 and Pennsylvania Chapter 15.
SCHOOL AGE INCREASED TO 22 YEARS OF AGE FOR SPECIAL EDUCATION STUDENTS
In August 2023, a memo was sent from the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) to all Local Education Agencies regarding a change in the age of eligibility for free and appropriate public education. The memo states:
Effective no later than September 5, 2023, all students entitled to FAPE and all of the rights and procedural safeguards under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Chapter 14 of Title 22 of the Pennsylvania Code may remain enrolled in public school until they turn 22 years of age. This includes students who turned 21 and exited during or after the 2022-2023 school term.
The following links contain additional information regarding PDE's policy change:
If after reviewing this information you have questions about the policy change or your student's eligibility, please contact Sonja Brunner, Director of Special Education, at 717-948-3300 ext 1007.
For further information on the rights of parents and students, services offered, evaluation and screening procedures, or to request screening, please contact in writing, Director of Special Education, 55 West Water Street, Middletown, PA 17057.