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Academics » Special Education

Special Education

Special Education Courses & Curriculum in Crystal, MN

Beacon Academy offers students in special education a range of supports and services for each of their areas of disability. We use small group instruction, one-on-one service, indirect services, and direct services to support student needs. When appropriate, Beacon Academy contracts with related service providers for instruction in the following areas: Speech and Language Services, Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, Audiological Services, Vision Services, School Psychology Services, Autism Specialist, Early Childhood Specialist, Traumatic Brain Injury Specialist, and Physical/Health Disabilities.

Special education’s function is to ensure a Free and Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) for all eligible students identified as having a disability and who need individualized and specially designed instruction. The instruction is designed to meet the unique needs of a child identified with a disability through an Individualized Education Program (IEP).

Children must meet specific criteria set by the State of Minnesota and the Federal Government to receive special education services. Eligibility determination occurs through a comprehensive evaluation conducted by the school. Learn more about Minnesota's disability categories and eligibility criteria now.

In accordance with Minnesota Rule 3525.1100, this document serves as the Total Special Education System (TSES) Plan for Beacon Academy. The TSES is a summary of Beacon’s policy and procedures related to special education services. To review the TSES for Beacon Academy, click below.

Beacon Academy uses restrictive procedures only in emergency situations. “Emergency” means a situation where immediate intervention is needed to maximize safety and minimize harm.

“Emergency” does NOT mean circumstances such as a child who does not respond to a task or request and instead places his or her head on a desk or hides under a desk or table; a child who does not respond to a staff person’s request unless failing to respond would result in physical injury to the child or other individual. Restrictive procedures must not be used to punish or otherwise discipline a child.

Learn more about our restrictive procedures below.

Special Education Administrative Assistant

Brooke Weis
Phone: 763.546.9999 x1110
Email: [email protected]

Beacon Academy offers support for families with students in Special Education. The Special Education Advisory Council (SEAC) meets at school a minimum of once per school year.

WHAT IS A SEAC?
A SEAC (pronounced “seek”) is an acronym for Special Education Advisory Council, which is a group that provides input on special education issues to its local school district. Its purpose is to advise and advocate, not to decide policy. Minnesota law requires each school district in the state to have a SEAC although it does not specify how the groups should be organized or what duties they should perform. As a result, each SEAC may have a unique mission and structure.

WHY ARE SEACS IMPORTANT?
Local SEAC committees advise school districts on the development of programs and services to meet the special educational needs of children and families. By sharing their unique perspective of what it is like to use these services, parents can help the district to be more effective. As a result, outcomes for children with disabilities should improve.

WHY MIGHT I WANT TO PARTICIPATE ON A SEAC?
Parents give many reasons for joining a SEAC, including these:

  • I may be able to help other families and children with disabilities in my school district.
  • I can share what I’ve learned since my child began his education.
  • I can support the school professionals in my district.
  • I will be a good role model for my child.
  • I feel good when I contribute to this community.
  • I will learn information and skills that may help me work more effectively with my school district.
  • I will meet others with similar goals, both parents and school professionals.
  • I may build positive relationships with others in my district.
  • I will become more knowledgeable about special education.
  • By sharing my unique perspective and insights as a parent, I may help the school district work more effectively with families and improve outcomes for children.
 

What is Beacon Academy SEAC?
Beacon Academy SEAC is for all parents/families/guardian(s) of children who either have an IEP, a 504, or are interested in a discussion to seek information and/or resources regarding these. SEAC meetings will be announced via email to families.

If you have questions about SEAC please email [email protected]