• Special Education

     

    Overview

    Special education is specially designed instruction, support, and services provided to a student with an identified disability through implementation of an individual education plan (IEP) that addresses the student’s unique learning needs.

    The purpose of Special Education is to enable students to successfully develop to their individual potential, both academically and social/emotionally. Special Education teachers work collaboratively with students, parents, teachers, school staff, and community representatives as they assist students to become responsible learners and transition to a meaningful, healthy, and productive adult life. 

    The Proviso Township High Schools Special Education Department supports the district vision of providing every student with an excellent and equitable education so that: 

    • Students are successful,
    • Parents are partners,
    • Educators are knowledgeable and empowered.

    The special education department promotes the understanding of what it means to provide an excellent education to “every” District 209 student. Special Education teachers work closely with all staff to help them gain knowledge about students with disabilities and to help educators provide appropriate support and services, as outlined in a student’s IEP. The work of the Special Education Department is done with care, integrity, fairness, patience, and respect.

    We believe:

    • Each student is a valued member of the District 209 community.
    • Each student has the potential to learn, grow and succeed through the positive impact of education in District 209.
    • Each student should be supported and educated with appropriate staff and resources to meet their needs.
    • Curriculum includes all areas of lifelong learning and must encompass diverse instruction for all learners.
    • All staff are responsible in helping a child receive the best education possible within the general education setting, whenever appropriate.
    • Special Education exists to support the basic instructional program, rather than replace it.
    • Special Education services are part of the continuum of services provided by District 209.
    • Special Education is a service, not a place.
    • A positive parent-school-community partnership is an essential part of educating all students. 
    • Continuous research, review and revision of systems, services, programs and student progress is necessary and essential in providing a free appropriate public education to all District 209 students.

     

    Eligibility:

    Department Structure:

    Support Services:

    Helpful Resources:

     The Answer, Inc.

     Autism Speaks

    The Illinois State Board of Education Special Education Services

    A Parent's Guide - Educational Rights and Responsibilities: Understanding Special Education in Illinois  (ENGLISH)

    A Parent's Guide - Educational Rights and Responsibilities: Understanding Special Education in Illinois  (SPANISH)

    US Department of Education

    Children and Adults with ADD  

    Learning Disabilities Association of America

    Center for Parent Information and Resources 

     

    FAQs about Special Education:

    Announcements:

     

    Department Contact Information: 

     

    Dean Lodovico

    Proviso East Special Education Department Chair

    dlodovico@pths209.org

    (708) 202-1686

     

    Vonsecil Parrott

    Administrative Assistant

    vparrott@pths209.org

    (708) 202-1682

     

     

    Kent Giardini

    Proviso West Special Education Department Chair

    kgiardini@pths209.org

    (708) 202-6390

     

    Kim Lindsey

    Administrative Assistant

    klindsey@pths209.org

    (708) 202-6394