Generally Asked Questions and Answers

Questions: What is the ID-Mild program?

Answer: In response to the question “What is the  ID-Mild  program?”, ID-Mild is the abbreviation for Intellectually Disabled, Mild. By definition, Intellectually Disabled refers to students who have a significantly sub average general cognitive functioning and a reduced rate of learning. This condition exists concurrently with deficits in adaptive behavior, is manifested during the developmental period, and adversely affects the student’s educational performance.

That basically means a student who has been identified as ID-Mild has developed at a below average rate and experiences difficulty in learning and social adjustment. Intellectually disabled does not mean they have a disease or have a mental illness. It means they learn at a slower rate and with difficulty.

The ID-Mild program would be classes that are specifically set up to serve students with this type of disability.

Question: As a parent, who do I voice my concerns to about the Special Education program?

Answer: You may request, through the Case Teacher at that school, for an IEP Team meeting to be scheduled. Any concerns about the Special Education program at the school can be addressed at that meeting.

Question: What if the school is not meeting the needs of the child or the family?

Answer: If you feel your child’s needs are not being met you can request an IEP Team meeting through the Case Teacher at the school. The IEP Team, of which you are a part, should discuss your child’s needs and determine if the IEP needs to be modified. You should receive a Handbook of Parent Rights at the meeting. If you do not, you should ask for one. The Handbook of Parent Rights explains your Due Process rights as a parent to request mediation if you can not reach resolution.

Question: What role does the school play in meeting the needs of the child?

Answer: When students are experiencing academic and/or behavioral difficulties it may be necessary for the student to be referred to the student Services team at the school. The Student Services Team is responsibility for reviewing concerns, conducting any necessary screenings (e.g. vision and hearing) and developing interventions to address student needs. The Student Services Team may refer the student to the IEP Team when interventions prove unsuccessful. It is the responsibility of the IEP Team to determine the appropriateness of referrals, evaluations, eligibility, and placement for students with disabilities. Placement would include the development of and Individual Education Program based upon the individual needs of the student.