Midlothian District 143 acknowledges individual differences in children's intellectual, social-emotional, and physical development. We fully believe every child can learn and have the right to access public education. We also understand that some children may need additional support to move forward with learning successfully. We provide specialized services and instruction to ensure a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE). A multi-disciplinary IEP team, including parents/guardians, determines all services. This team evaluates the student, develops, delivers, and assesses their program to meet their learning style best.
Special education services at District 143 are offered to qualified Pre-K through 8th grade students. Our continuum of services includes a wide range of programming and services that maximize opportunities for inclusion in the general education environment, offering services in the least restrictive environment (LRE) for that child. Additionally, students with disabilities have an equal opportunity to participate in extracurricular activities offered in our district.
Students with disabilities who do not qualify for an individualized education program, as required by the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and implementing provisions of the School Code, may qualify for services under Section 504 of the federal Rehabilitation Act of 1973 if the child (i) has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities, (ii) has a record of a physical or mental impairment, or (iii) is regarded as having a physical or mental impairment.
Our general education students receive differentiated instruction and accommodations through our Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS). School-based teams meet to discuss specific student progress and the need for possible interventions. Benchmark data and teacher or parent referrals identify students for differentiated support. If you have any concerns regarding your child's education or feel they may have learning issues that impede their progress, please do not hesitate to ask for assistance.
Please do not hesitate to call if there is anything you would like to discuss about your child. I welcome the opportunity to get to know you and your children!
Sincerely,
Casey Anderson
Director of Student Services
