Special Transportation

Branson Public Schools

2013-2014

Special Services Department

• Ms. Julia Scott – Coordinator of Special Education/Services

• Ms. Gwen Smith – Administrative Assistant for Special Education/Services

• Process Coordinators– Ms. Laura Eakins – ECSE and K Cedar Ridge– Ms. Kelly Jenkins – 1-3 Cedar Ridge and K Buchanan– Ms. Samantha VandenHoek – 1-3 Buchanan and 4-6

Cedar Ridge– Ms. Samantha Henderson – 4-6 Buchanan and Jr. High– Ms. Shawna Sartin – High School– Ms. Kristen Arnette – 504 K-12 Special Service Office 9711 - Gwen

Children with DisabilitiesChildren with disabilities have a

right to a free appropriate public education (FAPE). 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.

– See Attached Pages

Transportation as Related Service

• Federal and State Requirements– Transportation is included in the definition

of related services– Federal regulations define transportation to

include• Travel to and from school and between schools• Travel in and around school buildings• Specialized equipment if necessary to provide

transportation to a disabled child.

What is Special Transportation

• Special Transportation as defined for Branson Public Schools– Separate Busing System– Students with a variety of needs (i.e. wheel char,

para assistance, seat belt, booster seats harnesses)

– Modifications and Accommodations• these are required by law

Transportation as Related Service

How is it determined• The determination of Special

Transportation is decided at the IEP meeting by the IEP team (LEA, Teacher, Parent, etc.)

• Transportation is required to assist a child with a disability to benefit from special education.

Confidentiality

Confidentiality – the right that personal information about a child and family is not released without parent consent or only when permitted or required by law.

Behaviors are messages

• Behaviors serve a purpose

• Find out what message the student is trying to send

Why do they misbehave?

• Escape/avoidance

• Attention

• Control

• Sensory needs

• Poverty

• Boredom

Strategies To Use

• Use a calm tone of voice • Be polite and respectful• Be fair• Give consistent responses• Use the student’s name• Use fewer words• Give clear, concise directives• Avoid empty threats• Give choices that are appropriate

for the setting

Strategies To Use Cont.

• Use positives when they do well

• Try to give 3 positives for every 1 negative

• Get to know the students & talk to them about their interests

• Repeat directions calmly & avoid a power struggle

• Once it’s been dealt with, move on

When Problems Occur?

Para-Professional’s Role:

* Relay messages (i.e. non specific)

* Transition from school to bus

* Safety

Teacher’s Role:

* Face to Face Contact

* Problem solve bus situations

* Inform Process Coordinators of bus

incidents

Questions?