Specialized Services Department 

Summit School District #104 provides and maintains appropriate and effective educational programs in order to assure that every eligible child who has a disability, is enrolled in the school district, and requires special education and related services to address the adverse effects of the disability on his or her education, receives a free and appropriate public education (FAPE).  The Special Education Department provides supportive services for students who are experiencing academic, emotional or social challenges and coordinate the district’s health, counseling and 504 services.

In addition to providing programs for students with identified disabilities, the Special Education Department assumes the responsibility for addressing the needs of students who have medical or emotional challenges as well. The department is staffed with qualified individuals who are trained in the areas of psychology, counseling, speech and language therapy and social work. The services provided by these professionals are organized and delivered to help students achieve maximum benefit from the school program and provide optimum teaching and learning experiences for district students. This team of professionals is also responsible for screening and early detection of district residents by age three.

The Goals of the Specialized Services Department are:

  • Maintain district compliance with Federal and State guidelines concerning students with disabilities.

  • Identify children with special needs before they enter school and provide services to them.

  • Develop individualized education programs (IEPs) that focus on improving educational results, implement interventions, and behavioral programs through the general education curriculum.

  • Educate disabled children with their non-disabled peers to the extent possible.

Note: Students with disabilities who do not qualify for an individualized education program, as required by the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and implementing provisions of the School Code, may qualify for services under Section 504 of the federal Rehabilitation Act of 1973 if the child (i) has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities, (ii) has a record of a physical or mental impairment, or (iii) is regarded as having a physical or mental impairment.

Mrs. Kathy Johnson, Director of Specialized Services
kjohnson@sd104.us

Mrs. Bitya Alcala, Specialized Services Secretary
balcala@sd104.us

Mrs. Gabriela Macias, Specialized Services Secretary
gmacias@sd104.us