Programs and services are offered because member school districts desire comprehensive program options and efficient special education services that can be offered cooperatively under the direction of Intermediate School District 917.

Philosophy of Special Education

Whereas, public education is a fundamental right of all children and youth and whereas, every person is entitled to an equal opportunity to obtain an education, the School Board of Intermediate School District 917 upholds the following beliefs as a basis for program decisions:

·         Students are to be valued equally.

·         All students can learn, including students with disabilities.

·         Individual education plans are to be developed through cooperation of resident district staff, Intermediate School District 917 staff and parents/guardians on the basis of varied sources of information.  These individual education plans shall portray a comprehensive and accurate view of a student, his or her abilities and needs including transitional issues important to settings that the student will experience after graduation as well as extended school year.

·         Students with disabilities must be served in an environment appropriate to their educational needs.  We believe that providing services to students with disabilities in integrated settings is determined by individual student needs and should be practiced and encouraged when that setting will foster appropriate educational growth.

·         Educators from the resident school districts and Intermediate School District 917 must cooperate with each other and other human service agencies in order to achieve comprehensive student centered services.

·         Because the school district in which the student resides is legally responsible for the special education services provided to the student, District 917 must also be responsive to the expectations of that district.