The Pupil Personnel Services department supports the holistic development of students by providing comprehensive support services that address academic, social, emotional, and behavioral needs in our school setting.

STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES

• Coordinate individualized student support systems
• Manage special education referrals and evaluations
• Develop Individualized Education Programs (IEPs)
• Implement 504 Accommodation Plans
• Track student progress and interventions

MENTAL HEALTH AND COUNSELING

• Provide school counseling services
• Offer mental health support and screenings
• Develop crisis intervention strategies
• Support student social-emotional learning
• Coordinate with external mental health resources

SPECIAL EDUCATION MANAGEMENT

• Oversee special education program compliance
• Coordinate with Committee on Special Education (CSE) and Committee on Preschool Special Education (CPSEE)
• Ensure appropriate educational accommodations
• Monitor students with disabilities’ academic progress
• Facilitate inclusive learning environments

STUDENT ASSESSMENT AND INTERVENTION

• Conduct comprehensive student evaluations
• Implement and review Response to Intervention (RTI) strategies
• Identify and support students with learning challenges
• Develop targeted intervention plans
• Monitor student academic and behavioral progress

COLLABORATION AND COMMUNICATION

• Work with teachers, administrators, and parents
• Coordinate interdepartmental support services
• Facilitate communication between school and community resources
• Develop holistic support strategies

COMPLIANCE AND REGULATION

• Ensure adherence to NYS Education Department regulations
• Maintain accurate student records
• Follow federal and state special education guidelines
• Implement best practices in student support

SECTION 504
Federal law protects students with disabilities by ensuring they have equal access to educational programs and services. Schools receiving federal funding must comply with two key civil rights laws:

• Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973
• Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

These laws prohibit discrimination and require schools to provide reasonable accommodations for students with disabilities. The goal is to ensure that students with disabilities have the same educational opportunities as their peers without disabilities. The primary objective of a 504 Plan is to create an inclusive educational environment that supports every student’s ability to learn and succeed.

Who Qualifies for Accommodations? 
Students may be eligible for a Section 504 Accommodation Plan if they:

• Have a physical or mental impairment that significantly impacts major life activities and impacts the learning environment 
• Need additional support to fully participate in school programs
• Major life activities include, but are not limited to: walking, communicating, breathing, hearing, seeing, learning, concentrating, etc. 

School District Responsibilities

• Identify students with potential disabilities
• Conduct comprehensive evaluations
• Develop appropriate support plans
• Provide necessary accommodations, aids, or services

If you believe your child may need accommodations, you can:

• Request more information from the school
• Seek a formal evaluation
• Discuss potential support options with school administrators