Lincoln County School District Special Services Meeting Summary - August 19, 2024

Main Themes:

• Focus on Student Growth: This meeting emphasizes a commitment to student growth through high-level learning and using data to ensure effectiveness.
• Collaboration and Support: Building a strong, supportive "Special Services Family" through collaboration and shared best practices is crucial.
• Special Education as Access: The meeting stresses that special education is about providing access to the general curriculum through individualized support and instruction.
• Professional Development: Continuous learning and application of research-based practices are essential for special education professionals.

Important Ideas and Facts:

1. Four Pillars of Special Services:

• Relationship Cultivation: "Be each other's biggest fan" – Fostering a supportive and collaborative environment is key.
• Culture of Collaboration: Working together, sharing best practices, and supporting each other.
• Learning at High Levels: Striving for "at least one year of growth" for all students.
• Using Data: Data-driven decision making to determine the effectiveness of interventions and strategies.

2. Framework for Learning, Application, and Mastery:

• Knowledge: Understanding essential information and facts.
• Insight: Making connections, understanding the significance, and gaining a deeper understanding.
• Skill: Practical application of knowledge in different contexts.

3. Progression of Learning:

• Identify the knowledge, skill, or insight needed.
• Embrace challenges and setbacks as part of the learning process.
• Utilize strategies, skills, collaboration, and practice.
• Achieve success, growth, and mastery over time.

4. Special Education and the General Curriculum:

• Access is Key: Special education should provide individualized support for students to access the general curriculum.
• Identify the Gap: Use assessments, observations, and the student's PLAAFP to determine where the student is in relation to the general curriculum standards.
• Specially Designed Instruction (SDI): Provide individualized instruction and support based on the student's unique needs and the identified gap.

5. SDI and Other Interventions:

• SDI is individualized: It is not bound to specific programs like RTI or MTSS.

6. Professional Development:

• Research-Based Practices: Utilizing and implementing practices with fidelity.
• Collaborative Practices: Peer observation, case study discussions, and ongoing professional dialogue.
• Targeted Learning: Choosing professional development based on current role, responsibilities, and caseload needs.