Special Services is a system that guides and enlightens individuals who have mental or physical disabilities. In New Jersey, there is a certain council, The New Jersey Joint Council of County Special Services School Districts. This program is designed to help children in a safe and secure environment while assisting kids who need help. Special education teachers play a vital and much-needed role throughout school.
For instance, Roxbury High School has a program with personal classrooms where students with special needs learn how to cook, clean, make their bed, socialize, interact, and so much more. It is a priority for teachers to help these students communicate their feelings and emotions in ways they may not be familiar with. These Special Services are set in place to accommodate each child’s needs so they are ensured to succeed.
New Jersey provides all students with disabilities free and proper public school education along with maximum interaction with non-disabled students. According to disabilityrightsnj.org, “New Jersey’s Harassment, Intimidation and Bullying Act (HIB) law allows for a complaint process to protect students with disabilities from dangers in the school setting.” These rules set boundaries for students to keep kids safe.
In New Jersey, the IDEA and Section 504 provide procedural rights like evaluations to determine a child’s educational and programmatic needs. Disability Rights NJ encourages parents to self-advocate and use these plans so schools can meet their child’s needs. “Our Special Education Team wants to ensure families obtain the educational support and tools they need for their children with disabilities to succeed to their full potential.”
As of January 2022, New Jersey’s special education team has special funding specifically for transition planning and services for students ages 14-22. Transition planning and services are meant to prepare students for life after high school and include life skills, postsecondary education, and vocational education.
According to nj.gov, it is the responsibility of The Office of Special Education to enforce requirements to ensure consistent improvement among special needs students. “by ensuring consistency in the procedures that public agencies implement for meeting compliance with state and federal regulations.”
Special Services provides professional development, technical assistance, coaching, and resources to educators. These services are provided to children ages 3 to 21. According to nj.gov, “The office [of Special Education] is engaged in partnerships with state universities and organizations offering school-based professional learning opportunities.” Furthermore, children are offered a wide variety of possibilities.
The NJ special education program participates in a variety of state-wide groups and national organizations. This keeps laws and policies up to date. “Disability Rights NJ works tirelessly to improve laws, regulations, policies, and practices that impact students with disabilities.” New Jersey’s special education team works hard to ensure students receive the proper services that they deserve.
