Special Education

Special Education Staff

Special Education Coordinator: Ms. Michele Ruhl mruhl@cmths.org

Special Education Liaison: Ms. Lisa Baranek lbaranek@cmths.org

Special Education Liaison: Mr. Robert Kindon rkindon@cmths.org

Our Special Education team at CMTHS provides students with identified disabilities specialized instruction designed to meet their unique learning needs, giving them the opportunity to develop to their fullest potential.

What is Special Education?

Individual Education Plans (IEPs)

Special education refers to educational programming and practice that provides a range of supports and services to meet the unique needs of students with identified disabilities.

Students attending CMTHS are evaluated for special education by their home school districts or Local Education Agency (LEA). Students who qualify for special education are provided an Individual Education Plan (IEP) that outlines specially designed instruction (SDI) which adapts the content, methodology and/or delivery of instruction allowing access to the general education curriculum.

504 Plans:

For students who do not qualify for special education services under the Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA) may qualify for services under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act if the disability substantially limits educational performance.

For further information please refer to this link: http://www.ldonline.org/article/6086

Supports and Services Provided by CMTHS Staff Include:

1. Implementation of SDIs as outlined in a student’s IEP

2. Reinforcement of Career and Tech Ed program content and skills development

3. Adaptation or modification of instructional resources, techniques, or materials

4. Support with reading, writing, and math skills

5. Assistance with improving study skills and habits

6. Developing improved organization and time management

7. Career exploration and guidance

8. Positive behavioral and social-emotional supports

Transition to Career Program (TCP):

TCP is a full-day CMTHS Program for Special Education students who have the potential to independently acquire and maintain a full-time job. Students will explore career & technical programs at CMTHS to determine the best aptitude and interest in a career program. Students will attend a half day in one of our career programs to learn hands-on skills. The second half of the day is in the Transition to Career program classroom and with community employers to develop authentic job readiness skills through real and simulated work settings including, but not limited to social thinking skills in the workplace, work habits, appropriate communication skills, and work challenges.

Links to Special Education Notices and Guides:

Annual Public Notice of Special Education Services and Programs

Procedural Safeguards Notice

PA Parent Guide to Special Education