Pupil Personnel Services

The Brewster Central School District is committed to creating a culture that embraces an inclusive school community.  Consistent with our obligations under the State and Federal Law, we are committed to educating all students with disabilities in the least restrictive environment.  Special Education services are generally available through the Committee on Preschool Special Education for preschool-age students (ages 3-5) and the Committee on Special Education for school-age students (ages 5-21) as prescribed under the Commissioner’s Regulations Section 200.6.  Programs are designed to help students develop skills needed to be successful in the 21st century as addressed in our Strategic Coherence Plan.

If your school-age child is having difficulties in school, you are encouraged to speak with your child’s teachers and/or building support staff who know your child.  If you continue to feel that your child is not performing at a level similar to their peers, contact your child’s principal and ask about the supports or resources which have been, or may be made available to assist your child.  The District offers a number of general education support services, including a multi-tiered support system to assist students that are not making academic progress at expected rates.  If you suspect that your child may have a disability that is adversely impacting your child’s performance in school, you may submit a written referral to the CSE requesting that the District conduct an evaluation in order to determine whether your child is eligible for special education services as a student with a disability.

For more specific questions regarding the Committee on Special Education (CSE), please contact the Pupil Personnel Services Office.  We will explain the process of referral to the Committee on Special Education as well as any pre-referral interventions or other avenues of support that may be available.

If you have concerns that your preschooler is not reaching the developmental milestones or performing as you would expect, discuss your concerns with your child’s pediatrician.

If your child attends a preschool or nursery school program, share your concerns with your child’s teachers.

If you and the professionals working with your child continue to suspect that your child’s ability to learn is being adversely affected by a possible disability, please contact the Pupil Personnel Services Office.  We will explain the process of referral to the Committee on Preschool Special Education (CPSE) as well as any pre-referral interventions or other avenues of support that may be available.

A 504 Accommodation Plan is a written document created pursuant to Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and its federal implementing regulations.  It is generally designed to provide modifications, accommodations, and/or related services to students who have a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities.  Section 504 is a civil rights law that ensures all children have equal access to an education and is different from an Individualized Education Program.

If you have questions regarding your child’s possible need for a 504 Accommodation Plan, contact the appropriate Pupil Personnel Administrator regarding a 504 Accommodation Plan for your child.

There are many pathways to graduation for students, ranging from Regents Diplomas to the Skills and Achievement Commencement Credential.  The New York State Education Department document below outlines all graduate options and requirements.  Be sure to discuss these options with your child’s guidance counselor and pupil personnel services administrator.

Diploma Credential Requirements

When determined to be appropriate by the CSE, a student could receive the following related services:

• Speech and Language Therapy
• Occupational Therapy/Physical Therapy
• Psychological Counseling Services
• Social Work
• Teacher of Hearing Impaired – BOCES
• Teacher of Visually Impaired – BOCES
• Assistive Technology

Transition Planning for Students Age 14 and Older

Transition planning is an important part of preparing students with documented disabilities for life after high school. Beginning at age 14, students and families are encouraged to explore community-based resources that support postsecondary goals, including employment, education, independent living, and community participation.

Eligible students should begin the application process with the Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD). In addition, all students with disabilities are encouraged to connect with Pre-Employment Transition Services (PRE-ETS) and Access-VR to build skills, explore career interests, and plan for future success while still in high school.

Starting this process early allows students to access supports, develop self-advocacy skills, and make informed decisions about their goals after graduation.

Helpful Resources:

• US Department of Education Transition Guide
• Putnam County Transition Guide
• BCSD Transition Planning Timeline
• OPWDD Information
• Access-VR Application (for Juniors and Seniors)
• PRE-ETS Application (for Freshmen and Sophomores)

For assistance with transition planning, applications, or questions about available supports, please contact:

Sarah Vazquez
Assistant Director of Pupil Personnel Service (Secondary)
svazquez@brewsterschools.org

Eliza Love
Social Worker
elove@brewsterschools.org