Special Education Program Approved for District 70 Elementary Schools

Libertyville Elementary School District 70 approved initiating a special education program in district elementary schools at Tuesday's board meeting.

The program, which already serves nine Highland Middle School students, will offer elementary students an in-district special needs program.

“The Highland Instructional Program is infused with technology which keeps the students’ attention,” explained program teacher Kristi Patterson in a presentation before the board. “Eighty-three percent of our students transition to one or more general education classes and 60 percent improved Lexile scores, which are reading level scores, by 70 points or more.“

Patterson said the program uses sound systems, promethean boards, and special software and applications that make learning easier for students with a broad range of mental, physical, and learning disabilities. The program focuses on transitioning the students into standard classrooms at their own pace.

“This program creates independent learners,” said Special Education Director Marilynn Menuey. “It concentrates on intensive skills like reading, writing, and math.”

“We’re able to teach the same curriculum as other classroom,” Patterson said, “but at our own pace and while still meeting IEP goals.”

Patterson also told the board that two of the program’s students fully transitioned to general education classes requiring only one study hall where they received special education related services.

Currently, elementary school children needing special education programs are displaced to county programs.