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It is the policy of the Marshfield R-I School District to provide students with disabilities between the ages of three to 21 years with free and appropriate public education (FAPE).  The term "students with disabilities" includes all students defined as "handicapped" and "severely handicapped" in accordance with 162.675(2)(3) RSMo and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). 

Special education classes and services are offered for preschool & school-aged students with the following educational disabilities:

• Blind
• Deaf
• Deaf/Blind
• Educationally Autistic
• Emotionally Disturbed
• Hearing Impaired
• Learning Disabilities
• Intellectually Disabled
• Multiple Disabilities
• Physical/Other Health Impaired
• Traumatic Brain Injury
• Visually Impaired
• Young Child with Developmental Delay

Marshfield R-I Schools Special Education Department is committed to partnering with families in all steps of the special education process.  This process is heavily laden in law, policy and procedures, which can be overwhelming for families.  This site was developed to provide information and resources we hope families find helpful in navigating their own special education journey.  One particular resource is included below.  This handbook provides a comprehensive overview of special education in the State of Missouri.

The Parents' Guide to Special Education (DESE created handbook):  This document is offered as a guide for the rules of special education and related services.  It describes how to make a referral for special education as well as the evaluation process and IEP process.  -  The Parent's Guide to Special Education (English)  -  The Parent's Guide to Special Education (Spanish)

SPECIAL EDUCATION

Children differ in mental abilities, sensory development, physical traits, emotional or social behaviors, or communication skills. Some may require modification to their school program or special education and related services in order to benefit from their schooling.

Congress recognized that children with disabilities have special needs and passed what is now called the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). That law provides that children with disabilities must receive a free appropriate public education (FAPE) in the least restrictive environment (LRE). The Missouri State Plan for Special Education contains all regulations that must be followed by all public school districts and other responsible agencies in the provision of special education services.

The Marshfield R-I School District has set high standards and expectations for all children attending our schools. The district works to:

• Improve student achievement scores on statewide assessments
• Reduce dropouts and increase graduation rates
• Improve the preparation of students for their post-secondary life, whether that be a chosen vocation or continuing education upon graduation.

These high expectations have been set for all children, including those with disabilities.  The district needs your assistance and involvement in achieving these goals for your child.  As the parent of a child with a disability, you will participate in many meetings, working alongside school personnel in planning the special education services and support that your child needs. 

Should you have questions about your child’s special education services, it is recommended that you first contact your child’s teacher(s), principal, the district’s process coordinators, or the Director of Special Services.

In addition, there are a number of other resources for parents in Missouri. Those resources are available below or at Special Education Parent Resources.

• Early Childhood Special Education
• Medicaid Public Notice
• Notice Regarding Discrimination
• Parent Bill of Rights
• Parents Guide to Special Education (English)
• Parents Guide to Special Education (Spanish)
• Parent Guide/Right to Know
• Procedural Safeguards
• Public Notice of 504 Compliance
• Public Notice of Non-Discrimination
• PUBLIC NOTICE
• Schools and MO HealthNet - Information and Answers for Families
• Transition Preparation & Planning
• Transportation FAQ