Special Education
The goal of our holistic residential and day student educational program is to recognize and serve the mental, physical and emotional needs of all students. Wingate High School students with special needs will receive the same benefits and observe the same standards regarding student services. All students with special needs are protected by supportive legislation establishing safe and healthy practices and processes.
Individuals with Disabilities Education Act
Wingate High School adheres to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, which provides procedural safeguards for students with special needs. IDEA enhances our learning process by encouraging speedy and informal resolutions to problems, preventing student misidentification, and making schools safer. We can also provide behavioral interventions to prevent dangerous discipline problems.
Rehabilitation Act of 1973
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 is a federal law that protects students from discrimination based on disability. Students with special needs will be assured the same rights and benefits afforded to students without disabilities. To be eligible for protection under the act, a student must have a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities.
Section 504 and Discipline
Wingate High School students with disabilities are not exempt from school discipline codes. However, the student’s disability will be considered when determining the appropriate disciplinary response. If the behavior is unrelated to the student’s disability, the disciplinary action will be the same as for any other student without a disability.
An eligible student with a disability has the right to:
- Participate in and benefit from all education programs.
- Receive necessary accommodations under Section 504.
- Participate in the school’s nonacademic and extracurricular activities.
- Receive auxiliary aids and services to participate in school activities.
- Receive special education services if needed.
A school is not required to permit a student with a disability to benefit from school services, activities or programs when the student poses a direct threat to the health and safety of other students.
