Special Education

Most students with an Individualized Education Program (IEP) get special education services in the same classrooms as their peers. Each student’s needs are supported through different types of services in that setting.

A certified special education teacher, called a Learning Support Coach (LSC), works closely with the general education teacher to help students. The LSC:

• Tracks how students are doing on their IEP goals
• Helps students build skills like organization and self-advocacy
• Teaches in small groups or one-on-one when needed
• Supports the general education teacher in meeting student needs in class

All students are expected to work toward meeting district and state graduation requirements, including earning a high school diploma and career certificate.

The Special Education Team Leader at each school helps organize the IEP (Individualized Education Program). This includes the yearly IEP meeting and the 3-year eligibility meeting. Parents are included in three steps:

• Before the IEP Meeting: The Team Leader sets the meeting date and time. They also send documents to help families get ready.
• During the IEP Meeting: The Team Leader leads the meeting, helps the team work together, and makes sure everyone agrees on the supports and services to include in the IEP.
• After the IEP Meeting: The Team Leader sends the final IEP to the family for digital signatures.

Outside of the yearly meeting, the Team Leader is also available to answer questions from parents about services and support.

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) requires schools to provide transition support for students with an IEP or 504 Plan. These services help students get ready for life after high school. In our vo-tech district, we focus on helping students prepare for work and college. Some activities include:

• Career exploration classes
• Career and technical education programs
• Senior-year cooperative work experience

Our district’s Transition Coordinator works with students on their goals and helps families with applications for programs like:

• Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR)
• Division of Developmental Disabilities Services (DDDS)

Helpful Resources:

Transition services help students connect with state agencies. Students with an IEP or 504 Plan can get help applying for support through the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR), which is part of the Department of Labor. DVR can offer:

• Funding for training or education programs
• Apprenticeship opportunities
• Help finding a job

During junior and senior year, services begin with a transition plan and meetings with a DVR counselor. Some students may also qualify for services through other state agencies, like the Division of Developmental Disabilities Services (DDDS) or the Division of Services for Aging and Adults with Physical Disabilities (DSAAPD).

Helpful Links:

Speech-language pathologists in the NCCVT School District help students with many kinds of speech and language challenges. These include:

• Speech sounds (articulation)
• Listening and understanding (auditory processing and receptive language)
• Speaking clearly (expressive language)
• Stuttering (fluency)
• Voice and social communication

Support may happen in one-on-one sessions, small groups, or through teacher check-ins—based on student needs and the IEP team’s recommendations.

Some students may receive other services based on their needs. These services can include:

• Occupational or Physical Therapy
• Speech and Language Services
• Counseling or social skills training
• Orientation and mobility training
• Support for vision or hearing needs

Note: A doctor’s referral is needed to start a Physical Therapy (PT) evaluation at school.

School psychologists support student learning, behavior, and emotional health. They:

• Do evaluations to see if students qualify for special education or 504 Plans
• Use many types of tests and tools during evaluations
• Work with families, staff, and school teams to support students

Most students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) are in general education classes. Some take part in Delcastle’s STEP Program or a hybrid option. Support may include:

• Speech services and counseling
• Help with life skills and future planning

The Special Education Team Leader at your school can share more about the services available.

The STEP program at Delcastle Technical High School supports students who take the Delaware Alternate Assessment. The focus is on building life skills, work readiness, and learning in the community. To learn more, visit the STEP Program page or contact Team Leader Lisa Cave at [email protected].

After completing the STEP Program, students can continue preparing for adult life in the 18–22 Transition Program. This program is run in partnership with Service Source Delaware. Learn more by visiting the Transition Program page or contact District Transition Coordinator Lynn Williams at [email protected].

A 504 Plan helps students who have a physical or mental condition that limits a major life activity. Some students already have a 504 Plan from earlier grades. Others may qualify for one in high school.

At each school, the school psychologist manages the 504 Plan process. They can:

• Review 504 Plans for incoming 9th grade students
• Help families through the steps to get a new plan

The New Castle County Vo-Tech District works with families to support each student. Every school has an Instructional Support Team (IST) that:

• Checks student progress in regular classes
• Helps decide if a student may need special education or a 504 Plan

Students may be referred to the IST by a teacher, staff member, or parent. The IST is led by the school counselor and may include teachers, specialists, parents, and administrators.

For questions, contact your child’s school counselor.