504 Process
A 504 plan is required for students with a disability that may need specific accommodations in their classroom to assist with learning the grade level curriculum. These students have the ability to learn the same as their peers but may need supplemental materials. The disability is typically through a medical diagnosis from a doctor or counselor.
To be protected under Section 504, a student must be determined to: (1) have a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities; or (2) have a record of such an impairment; or (3) be regarded as having such an impairment.
Below is a link to the State of Connecticuts 504 Process and paperwork:
If you have any questions about the 504 process please contact Polly Borysevicz at pborysevicz@ashfordct.org
Individual Education Plans: Special Education
Prior to being referred to special education students typically start in the MTSS (Multi-Tiered Support System). At Ashford School this is called the Student Intervention Team (SIT). This is a team of professionals that review the data of a students work. Teachers would refer the students that are scoring or performing consistently below grade level or lagging behind their peers. Goals are set by the team in the area of need and progress is tracked for 4-6 weeks. After 4-6 weeks the team will re-meet and determine next steps. If there is consistently no progress being made in the SIT process than students will be referred to special education. A referral is filled out and dated. On that date the 45 school day time table begins. This means that the Special education department has 45 days to schedule an initial PPT (Planning Placement Team) meeting, sign for school based testing, complete the testing and then review the evaluation results in another PPT meeting. At that second PPT the team will determine whether or not the student qualifies for special education. If the student does qualify than an IEP(Individual Education Plan) will be created and the services will be agreed upon. This entire process is done in collaboration with the family. A family at any time can decide not to continue on the path to special education. Special education is required when a student needs modifications to the grade level materials. This means that they require specialized instruction taught by a special educator or service provider.
Below is a great training on our document and process: