Students with Special Needs
Programs for Students with Disabilities
The Horseheads Central School District, in conjunction with the New York State Board of Regents and the New York State Education Department, has set high goals for educational programs and services for district students with disabilities. The district offers a full continuum of special education programs and services to meet the unique needs of our students with disabilities. Special education services are provided in the least restrictive environment.
Section 504
Section 504 is an act which prohibits discrimination against persons with a disability in any program receiving federal financial assistance. The Section 504 Act defines a person with a disability as anyone who:
- has a mental or physical impairment which substantially limits one or more major life activity (major life activities include activities such as learning, walking, seeing, hearing, speaking, breathing, caring for one's self, performing manual tasks and working);
- has a record of such impairment; or
- is regarded as having such an impairment.
In order to fulfill its obligation under Section 504, the Horseheads Central School District recognizes a responsibility to avoid discrimination in policies and practices regarding its personnel and students. No discrimination against any person with a disability will knowingly be permitted in any of the program and practices in the school system.
The school district has specific responsibilities under the Section 504 Act, which include the responsibility to identify, evaluate, and if the child is determined to be eligible under Section 504, to afford access to appropriate educational services.
A note for parents/guardians of high school students:
The awarding of a commencement credential (CDOS or Diploma) is part of the High School graduation ceremony. Students with disabilities can participate in the graduation ceremony, regardless of the physical location of their program and services. Parents/guardians of high school students who have questions or who wish their child to participate in the Horseheads High School graduation ceremony should contact the school counseling office for further details as soon as possible (607-739-5601 x1628).
For more information about our programs for students with special needs, please call our Student Services Office at 607-739-5601, x4305.