Special Education Department

Welcome to the Special Education Department at Opportunity Charter School, where every student's unique abilities and potential are embraced and supported. Our dedicated team is committed to creating a nurturing and inclusive learning environment that celebrates diversity and fosters academic and personal growth for all students. Through collaborative partnerships with educators, families, and community members, we strive to ensure that every student receives the individualized support they need to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. At the heart of our mission is a belief in equity, accessibility, and the empowerment of every learner. Together, we work towards building a community where everyone belongs and succeeds.

What our Services Look Like

​At Opportunity Charter School, we are dedicated to ensuring every student has the opportunity to succeed. Our Special Education Department is committed to providing tailored support and resources for students with diverse learning needs. We offer personalized education plans (IEPs), specialized classroom instruction, and access to Related Services to enhance our students learning experiences. ​

What are Self Contained Classes?

Self-contained classes refer to classrooms where students with special needs receive specialized instruction and support in a separate setting from the general education population. These classes offer:

• Targeted Support
• Smaller Class Sizes
  
• Specialized Instruction
  
• Structured Environment
  
• Multi-disciplinary Approach
  
• Focus on Functional Skills
  

​Overall, self-contained classes in special education aim to provide a supportive and nurturing learning environment where students with significant disabilities can make academic progress, develop life skills, and achieve their full potential in a setting that meets their specific educational 

What are ICT Classes?

ICT stands for Integrated Co-Teaching, these classes are designed to support students with disabilities or special needs within the framework of inclusive education. In an ICT classroom, students with disabilities learn alongside their peers in a general education setting, facilitated by both a special education teacher and a general education teacher.
Some key aspects of Special Education ICT classes:

1. Inclusive Environment: ICT classes promote an inclusive environment where students with disabilities have the opportunity to learn alongside their peers without disabilities. This setting helps foster social interaction and acceptance among all students.
2. Supportive Instruction: The special education teacher in an ICT classroom provides specialized instruction and support tailored to the individual needs of students with disabilities. This might include modifying curriculum, using alternative teaching strategies, providing additional resources, or adapting assessments.
3. Collaborative Teaching: Collaboration between the special education teacher and the general education teacher is a hallmark of ICT classes. They work together to plan lessons, differentiate instruction, and address the diverse learning needs of all students in the classroom.
4. Individualized Education Plans (IEPs): Students in ICT classes typically have Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) that outline their specific learning goals, accommodations, and modifications. These plans ensure that each student's educational needs are met effectively.
5. Promotion of Skills Development: ICT classes aim to develop not only academic skills but also social-emotional skills, independence, and self-advocacy among students with disabilities. The supportive environment encourages students to engage actively in their learning and reach their full potential.

Overall, Special Education ICT classes emphasize inclusivity, individualized support, and collaboration among educators to create a positive and enriching learning experience for all students, regardless of their abilities or disabilities.

What are Related Services?

Related Services include, but are not limited to, speech therapy, language therapy, occupational therapy, social-emotional support, vision and hearing educational services, and assistive technology. We are committed to nurturing the unique strengths and talents of each student. At our school, inclusivity and support for all learners is are the heart of what we do.

English Language Learners (ELL)

English Language learners typically refer to individuals who are in the process of acquiring proficiency in a language that is not their native or dominant language. ​ Supporting English language learners often involves providing resources, instruction, and opportunities for practice that cater to their specific needs and circumstances. This could include language classes, language immersion programs, cultural orientation, language exchange programs, and access to language learning materials.

Contact Us

Email us to learn more about the special education services offered at Opportunity Charter School​.