Special Education
Beatrice Public Schools provides a variety of special education services to students with verified disabilities in accordance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Nebraska Rule 51 guidelines. The specific special education services that are provided are determined on a case-by-case basis, through the child’s Individualized Education Plan (IEP). These services may include home/community-based services for children aged birth to three, preschool services for children aged three to five, school-based services for children enrolled in our elementary, middle, or high schools and non-public schools, and transition services for eligible children aged 16-21. Our goal is to provide students with disabilities the individualized services they need in order to be successful in home, school, and community settings. If you suspect that your child has a disability, please contact Beth Cordry-Hookstra, Director of Special Education, at 223-1512, to discuss the special education verification process.
The parents of children with disabilities are guaranteed certain rights under IDEA and Nebraska Rule 51. These rights and procedural safeguards are described in the following “Parental Rights in Special Education” brochure produced by the Nebraska Department of Education:
Childfind
Children that are birth to 5 years old who are experienceing problems with speech language, cognitive, emotional and/or physical development or have a disability can receive services through Early Childhood Special Education Services. For more information contact Beth Cordry-Hookstra, Director of Special Education, or Missy Timmerman, Early Childhood Coordinator, at the Student Programs office. The phone number is (402) 223-1512.
Section 504
In addition, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 protects students from discrimination based on their disability status and ensures that students with disabilities have access to programs and activities within the school. A student with a disability who does not qualify for special education services under IDEA may quality for a 504 Accommodation Plan, if he/she has a physical or mental impairment in a major life activity which causes a substantial impact on his/her school performance. If you feel that your child may qualify for a 504 Plan, please contact Beth Cordry-Hookstra, Director of Special Education, at 223-1512.