Our Special Education Program

          The special education program at Harbor Middle School mission is to provide a free and appropriate education in the least restrictive environment for all of its students.  Each student in the program will have each of his or her needs evaluated, no matter how minute. Each need will be provided for in the most proficient way.  Our goal is for each special needs student to grow and succeed to their maximum potential emotionally, socially, mentally, and physically. 

          Each special education teacher has only seven students.  Each teacher is provided with an educational assistant.  Certain special needs students will be provided with an educational assistant. Individual attention for each student is top priority for our special education specialists.  Each grade will each have a Learning Disabled Room and Emotionally Disturbed Room.  The Cognitive Disabled Children will be all together in one room.  Many of the special education students are multi-categorical; therefore, more than one special education specialist will service them.  Each student will be placed in the Least Restrictive Environment possible.  In addition, parent support groups will be offered to unite and empower parents.  Counseling will also be offered for the special education student or for members of their family.

Modifications for special education students are listed below:

·        Adaptive computer software

·        Extra time on tests

·        Ability to leave regular education classroom during study time to go to designated special education classroom for extra help

·        One-on-one time with special education specialist

·        Ramps to the inside of the building

·        Teachers may wear microphones

·        Braille on all posted signs on campus

·        Bathrooms/Kitchen in all Cognitive Disabled classrooms

·        Sinks and water fountains in all classrooms

·        Buddy system with regular education students

·        Peer tutors

·        Peer study groups

·        Anger management classes

·        Electronic doors

·        Honors classes (Gifted and Talented)

·        Independent Studies (For any student with prior approval)

·      Bussing