ELEMENTARY SPECIAL EDUCATION
There are three elementary schools in Portsmouth: Dondero, Little Harbour and New Franklin, each with special education programs. These programs vary somewhat based on the population at a given time, but in general ...
Each school has resource room(s) with services for mild to moderate handicapped students. These students are included in regular classrooms and are supported by the resource room staff using both in-class and pullout models. Each student has a "team" which meets on a regular basis to evaluate, place and monitor the special education program. This team includes special education teachers and appropriate related service personnel such as a Speech and Language Therapist, Occupational Therapist, School Counselor, Nurse, Physical Therapist and Reading Specialist.
In addition, each of the three schools has a program for the Developmentally Disabled students. These students are included in the regular classroom with the assistance of a case manager, who oversees the team and maintains contact with the teachers and parents. Further, a paraprofessional may be assigned to the classroom to help facilitate the inclusion process.
Finally, each school has an Outreach Program which serves students "at risk" for behavior and/or social-emotional problems. This program serves as a support system for the student, teachers and parents. These students have behavior plans and contracts as part of their education. This program has a therapist and a behavior interventionist at each school.