Programs for Students with Disabilities

It is the policy of the Board of Education of North Kansas City Schools to provide a free and appropriate education for students with disabilities, including those who are in need of special education and related services.

Special Education Transition Planning

Transition planning is an ongoing process –- not a single event -– that builds on itself each year. Transition planning is the basis for IEP development for all students served in special education in high school or who will turn 16 during the year that the current IEP is in effect. Transition planning involves the student, along with the parents and IEP team, working to develop plans for the future based upon age-appropriate transition assessment. This assessment provides the foundation for transition planning and IEP development. Students’ needs, preferences, and interests are investigated to determine appropriate, measurable goals for after graduation from high school, as well as services needed during high school, to assist the student to attain these post-school outcomes. Post-secondary goals evolve and change as the student gets older and gains new insights; therefore, the IEP will reflect these changes over time. Based upon the results of transition assessment, post-secondary goals are developed in the areas of education/training, employment, and independent living. In addition, needed transition services are addressed that will facilitate the attainment of the post-school goals.

North Kansas City Schools is committed to providing transition-related coursework that will provide students the opportunity to develop skills needed to live and work in the community. Courses are offered in the school setting as well as within the community. Descriptions of these courses are provided in this section.

For more information please contact your student’s case manager, school counselor, building administrator, or the special education coordinator.

Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)

The district seeks to identify, evaluate, and provide free and appropriate educational services in the least restrictive environment to all qualified students with disabilities within the definitions of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). No qualified student with a disability shall, on the basis of disability, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or otherwise be subjected to discrimination under any district program, including nonacademic services and extracurricular activities.

Students with disabilities may be eligible for accommodation under this policy even though they are not eligible for services pursuant to the IDEA. The district will initiate a referral if a student requiring accommodation is also believed to be a student with a disability under the IDEA. Implementation of an IEP in accordance with the IDEA satisfies the district’s obligation to provide a free and appropriate education under Section 504.

For more information please contact your student’s case manager, school counselor, building administrator, or the special education coordinator.

Special Services Courses

(for students with Individualized Education Plans – IEPs)

The prerequisites for the following classes are based upon the IEP team decision and/or off campus sites application and acceptance. See your case manager for more details.