The Commonwealth of Massachusetts
Department of Education
350 Main Street, Malden, Massachusetts 02148-5023
Telephone: (781) 338-
3000
November 8, 2005
James J. Brosnan
Superintendent of Schools
Northern Berkshire Vocational Regional School District
70 Hodges Cross Road
North Adams, MA 01247
Re:
Onsite Follow-up Monitoring Report: Coordinated Program Review Corrective Action
Plan Verification and Special Education Mid-cycle Review
Dear Superintendent Brosnan:
Enclosed is the Department's Coordinated Program Review Follow-up Monitoring Report
together with findings regarding your district’s Coordinated Program Review Mid-cycle Review.
This report contains the Department's findings based on the onsite activities conducted in your
school district to verify the implementation status and effectiveness of corrective steps taken in
response to your Coordinated Program Review Report issued on July 24, 2002.
.
We are pleased to indicate that the Department of Education has found your district's approved
Corrective Action Plan to be substantially implemented and effective in remedying previously
identified noncompliance issues in the area of special education. The findings of the Department
are included in the attached Follow-up Monitoring Report. You and your entire staff are to be
congratulated for your efforts in implementing all necessary improvements.
While the Department of Education found all special education noncompliance issues to be
resolved, noncompliance issues in the area of Title I were partially corrected, not addressed at all
and/or new issues were identified by the Department’s onsite team.
As the Department previously informed you, in cases where a district fails to fully and
effectively implement a Corrective Action Plan, which was proposed by your district and
approved by the Department, the Department must then prepare a Corrective Action Plan for the
district, which must be implemented without further delay. You will find these requirements for
corrective action and further progress reporting included in the attached report together with any
steps that must be taken by the district to fully implement new special education requirements.
Please provide the Department with your written assurance that the Department's requirements
for corrective action will be implemented by your school district within the timelines specified.
Your statement of assurance must be submitted to the Department's Onsite Chairperson by
November 21, 2005.
The Department will notify you of your district's next regularly scheduled Coordinated Program
Review several months before it is to occur. At this time we anticipate the Department's next
routine monitoring visit to occur sometime during the 2008-2009 academic year, unless the
Department determines that there is some reason to schedule this visit earlier.
Your staff's cooperation throughout these Follow-up Monitoring activities is appreciated.
Should you require additional clarification of information included in our report, please do not
hesitate to contact the Onsite Team Chairperson at 413-284-0382.
Sincerely,
Sandra K. Hanig, Coordinated Program Review Follow-up Chairperson
Program Quality Assurance Services
John D. Stager, Administrator
Program Quality Assurance Services
c:
David P. Driscoll, Commissioner of Education
Daniel Maloney, School Committee Chairperson
Mary Lou Accetta, District Program Review Follow-up Coordinator
Encl.: Follow-up Monitoring Report
2
MASSACHUSETTS DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION
COORDINATED PROGRAM REVIEW
Northern Berkshire Vocational Regional School District / McCann Technical School
ONSITE VERIFICATION OF CORRECTIVE ACTION PLAN IMPLEMENTATION
AND/OR IDENTIFICATION OF ADDITIONAL FINDINGS REQUIRING CORRECTIVE ACTION
Action Plan Submitted on October 9, 2002
Progress Reports Submitted on December 2, 2002, February 8, 2003 and October 31, 2003
Onsite Visits Conducted on March 18, 2003, December 9, 2003, October 31, 2004, March 21, 2005, and October 14, 2005
Date of this Report: November 8, 2005
Criterion
Number
and
Topic
(Refer to full text
of requirements in
2004-2005 Special
Education
Information
Package)
Implementation
Status of
Requirements
or
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to be
Substantially
Implemented
Method(s) of
Verification
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to
be Not Fully
Implemented or
Additional
Issues Identified
Comments Regarding
Corrective Action Plan
Implementation


OSEP Focus Areas - Special Education Requirements
SE 3
Special
requirements for
√
Documentation
Statutory requirements for the
determination of specific
learning disabilities have been
3
Findings Regarding
Incomplete
Implementation of
Approved Corrective
Action Plan or
Identification of Additional
Issues of Noncompliance
Further Corrective Action
Ordered by the
Department of Education
and Timelines for
Implementation and Further
Progress Reporting
Criterion
Number
and
Topic
(Refer to full text
of requirements in
2004-2005 Special
Education
Information
Package)
determination of
specific learning
disabilities
Implementation
Status of
Requirements
or
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to be
Substantially
Implemented
Method(s) of
Verification
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to
be Not Fully
Implemented or
Additional
Issues Identified
Comments Regarding
Corrective Action Plan
Implementation


revised under the recently
reauthorized IDEA 2004.
Therefore, until final
implementing regulations have
been adopted, the Department is
not making findings related to
school district practices under
Coordinated Program Review
Criterion SE 3. For districts
seeking to resolve a previous
finding in this area, the
Department will extend the date
required for final actions on the
part of the school district to June
2006 and will consider resolution
at any time following
promulgation of final federal
regulations.
The district submitted evidence
that it has provided training on
the topic of specific learning
disabilities.
The district submitted evidence
4
Findings Regarding
Incomplete
Implementation of
Approved Corrective
Action Plan or
Identification of Additional
Issues of Noncompliance
Further Corrective Action
Ordered by the
Department of Education
and Timelines for
Implementation and Further
Progress Reporting
Criterion
Number
and
Topic
(Refer to full text
of requirements in
2004-2005 Special
Education
Information
Package)
Implementation
Status of
Requirements
or
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to be
Substantially
Implemented
Method(s) of
Verification
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to
be Not Fully
Implemented or
Additional
Issues Identified
Comments Regarding
Corrective Action Plan
Implementation


of its internal investigation of
student records to monitor
compliance with this criterion.
5
Findings Regarding
Incomplete
Implementation of
Approved Corrective
Action Plan or
Identification of Additional
Issues of Noncompliance
Further Corrective Action
Ordered by the
Department of Education
and Timelines for
Implementation and Further
Progress Reporting
Criterion
Number
and
Topic
(Refer to full text
of requirements in
2004-2005 Special
Education
Information
Package)
SE 6
Determination of
transition services
(Emphasis on
practices in
determining needed
transition planning
and services and
consideration of
courses of study
related to needed
transition)
Implementation
Status of
Requirements
or
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to be
Substantially
Implemented
Method(s) of
Verification
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to
be Not Fully
Implemented or
Additional
Issues Identified
Comments Regarding
Corrective Action Plan
Implementation


√
Documentation,
interview,
student record
The district submitted a copy of
guidelines for determining
transition services. The district
also submitted a list of
participating co-op students and
placements and evidence that it is
meeting on an on-going basis
with Mass Rehab to identify
students who will need services
after graduation.
Review of student records and
interviews indicate that transition
considerations are a big focus of
this vocational technical school.
The need for a 688 referral is
documented under “Additional
Information” on each IEP.
SE 13
Progress Reports
and content
√
Documentation,
interview,
student record
On March 21, 2005, the district
submitted a sign-in sheet and a
follow-up summary memo, along
with copies of actual student
6
Findings Regarding
Incomplete
Implementation of
Approved Corrective
Action Plan or
Identification of Additional
Issues of Noncompliance
Further Corrective Action
Ordered by the
Department of Education
and Timelines for
Implementation and Further
Progress Reporting
Criterion
Number
and
Topic
(Refer to full text
of requirements in
2004-2005 Special
Education
Information
Package)
Implementation
Status of
Requirements
or
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to be
Substantially
Implemented
Method(s) of
Verification
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to
be Not Fully
Implemented or
Additional
Issues Identified
Comments Regarding
Corrective Action Plan
Implementation


progress reports that were
critiqued with staff members as
part of staff training on writing
quality progress reports.
The concern at the time of the
2002 Coordinated Program
Review is that progress reports
were written by the Director of
Special Education instead of the
teachers who provide direct
services.
Student record review in October
2005 indicates that progress
reports are typed without the
author’s signature. Interviews
indicate that special education
teachers write progress reports.
7
Findings Regarding
Incomplete
Implementation of
Approved Corrective
Action Plan or
Identification of Additional
Issues of Noncompliance
Further Corrective Action
Ordered by the
Department of Education
and Timelines for
Implementation and Further
Progress Reporting
Criterion
Number
and
Topic
(Refer to full text
of requirements in
2004-2005 Special
Education
Information
Package)
SE 15
Outreach by the
School District
(Child Find)
SE 17
Initiation of
services at age
three and Early
Intervention
transition
procedures
SE 18A
IEP development
and content
Implementation
Status of
Requirements
or
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to be
Substantially
Implemented
Method(s) of
Verification
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to
be Not Fully
Implemented or
Additional
Issues Identified
Comments Regarding
Corrective Action Plan
Implementation


√
Student record
review and
interviews
Northern Berkshire Vocational
Regional School District serves
students in grades 9-12
exclusively.
Not applicable
√
This criterion was implemented
at the time of the program
review. Student record review
and interviews indicate that this
criterion continues to be
implemented.
Documentation,
interview,
student record
Concern at the time of the
Coordinated Program Review in
March 2002 was that IEPs were
“boilerplate” and not written to
meet the individual needs of each
special education student.
In March 2005, the district
8
Findings Regarding
Incomplete
Implementation of
Approved Corrective
Action Plan or
Identification of Additional
Issues of Noncompliance
Further Corrective Action
Ordered by the
Department of Education
and Timelines for
Implementation and Further
Progress Reporting
Criterion
Number
and
Topic
(Refer to full text
of requirements in
2004-2005 Special
Education
Information
Package)
Implementation
Status of
Requirements
or
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to be
Substantially
Implemented
Method(s) of
Verification
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to
be Not Fully
Implemented or
Additional
Issues Identified
Comments Regarding
Corrective Action Plan
Implementation


submitted evidence that it has
held staff trainings on the
development on content of IEPs.
Review of student records in
October 2005 indicate that IEPs
are now written to address the
individual needs of each student.
9
Findings Regarding
Incomplete
Implementation of
Approved Corrective
Action Plan or
Identification of Additional
Issues of Noncompliance
Further Corrective Action
Ordered by the
Department of Education
and Timelines for
Implementation and Further
Progress Reporting
Criterion
Number
and
Topic
(Refer to full text
of requirements in
2004-2005 Special
Education
Information
Package)
SE 18B
Determination of
placement;
immediate
provision of IEP to
parent
Implementation
Status of
Requirements
or
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to be
Substantially
Implemented
Method(s) of
Verification
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to
be Not Fully
Implemented or
Additional
Issues Identified
Comments Regarding
Corrective Action Plan
Implementation


√
Interview,
Student record,
documentation
The concern at the time of the
Coordinated Program Review in
2002 was that the IEP was poorly
written and appropriate
placement could not be
determined.
Documentation submitted in
March 2005 and student record
review in October 2005 indicate
that the district has developed a
continuum of services and
delivery models that allows for
appropriate student placement to
meet IEP goals. The district
piloted a program of
collaborative teaching in an
English and math class. The
special education department
works with general education
teachers to ensure that classroom
modifications and
accommodations are
implemented for inclusive
10
Findings Regarding
Incomplete
Implementation of
Approved Corrective
Action Plan or
Identification of Additional
Issues of Noncompliance
Further Corrective Action
Ordered by the
Department of Education
and Timelines for
Implementation and Further
Progress Reporting
Criterion
Number
and
Topic
(Refer to full text
of requirements in
2004-2005 Special
Education
Information
Package)
Implementation
Status of
Requirements
or
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to be
Substantially
Implemented
Method(s) of
Verification
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to
be Not Fully
Implemented or
Additional
Issues Identified
Comments Regarding
Corrective Action Plan
Implementation


placements. A special education
teacher supports students in
vocational classes. Some
students receive services in a
resource room placement.
The district’s report on the
number of students who now
receive special education
services in a less restrictive
environment indicates the
success of these additional
placement options.
11
Findings Regarding
Incomplete
Implementation of
Approved Corrective
Action Plan or
Identification of Additional
Issues of Noncompliance
Further Corrective Action
Ordered by the
Department of Education
and Timelines for
Implementation and Further
Progress Reporting
Criterion
Number
and
Topic
(Refer to full text
of requirements in
2004-2005 Special
Education
Information
Package)
SE 20
Least restrictive
program selected
Implementation
Status of
Requirements
or
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to be
Substantially
Implemented
Method(s) of
Verification
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to
be Not Fully
Implemented or
Additional
Issues Identified
Comments Regarding
Corrective Action Plan
Implementation


√
Student record,
documentation,
interview
The concern at the time of the
2002 Coordinated Program
Review was that special
education students had only one
placement option, removal from
the classroom and placement in a
study skills class.
See comment under SE 18B
regarding the district’s efforts to
establish less restrictive special
education programs and
practices.
Student record review in October
2005 indicates that the
justification for removal from
general education is documented
on student IEPs.
SE 22
IEP
implementation and
√
Documentation,
interview
The concern at the time of the
2002 Coordinated Program
Review was that general
12
Findings Regarding
Incomplete
Implementation of
Approved Corrective
Action Plan or
Identification of Additional
Issues of Noncompliance
Further Corrective Action
Ordered by the
Department of Education
and Timelines for
Implementation and Further
Progress Reporting
Criterion
Number
and
Topic
(Refer to full text
of requirements in
2004-2005 Special
Education
Information
Package)
availability
(Emphasis on
provision of IEP
services without
delay; provision of
the IEP at the
beginning of the
school year; and,
alternative methods
of service delivery
where there is a
lack of space
and/or personnel)
Implementation
Status of
Requirements
or
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to be
Substantially
Implemented
Method(s) of
Verification
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to
be Not Fully
Implemented or
Additional
Issues Identified
Comments Regarding
Corrective Action Plan
Implementation


education teachers were not
implementing IEP
accommodations and
modifications.
In March 2005, the district
submitted evidence that it has
held professional development
for all staff on the requirement to
fully implement IEPs, with an
emphasis on the requirement for
general educators to carry out
accommodations and
modifications. Staff members
have been given summaries of
IEP information for every student
who has an IEP.
The district reports that the
principal/director, assistant
director and director of student
services observe classrooms to
ensure accommodations and
modifications are being carried
out. Services delivery grids and
13
Findings Regarding
Incomplete
Implementation of
Approved Corrective
Action Plan or
Identification of Additional
Issues of Noncompliance
Further Corrective Action
Ordered by the
Department of Education
and Timelines for
Implementation and Further
Progress Reporting
Criterion
Number
and
Topic
(Refer to full text
of requirements in
2004-2005 Special
Education
Information
Package)
Implementation
Status of
Requirements
or
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to be
Substantially
Implemented
Method(s) of
Verification
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to
be Not Fully
Implemented or
Additional
Issues Identified
Comments Regarding
Corrective Action Plan
Implementation


progress reports are reviewed biyearly.
14
Findings Regarding
Incomplete
Implementation of
Approved Corrective
Action Plan or
Identification of Additional
Issues of Noncompliance
Further Corrective Action
Ordered by the
Department of Education
and Timelines for
Implementation and Further
Progress Reporting
Criterion
Number
and
Topic
(Refer to full text
of requirements in
2004-2005 Special
Education
Information
Package)
SE 26
Parent participation
in meetings
(Emphasis on
district’s attempts
to ensure parent
participation at
IEP Team
meetings)
Implementation
Status of
Requirements
or
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to be
Substantially
Implemented
Method(s) of
Verification
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to
be Not Fully
Implemented or
Additional
Issues Identified
Comments Regarding
Corrective Action Plan
Implementation


√
Documentation,
interview,
student record
The concern at the time of the
2002 Coordinated Program
Review was that, if the parent did
not attend the IEP Team meeting,
the district had not documented
multiple attempts to ensure that
the parent attend the meeting or
have input into the development
of the IEP.
In March 2005, the district
submitted a copy of the
parent/guardian communication
log it has developed. The district
reviews data each quarter about
the number of parents/guardians
attending IEP Team meetings.
For the quarter preceding this
Midcycle review, the district had
100% parent participation at IEP
Team meetings.
A sample of student records was
reviewed in October 2005. Each
15
Findings Regarding
Incomplete
Implementation of
Approved Corrective
Action Plan or
Identification of Additional
Issues of Noncompliance
Further Corrective Action
Ordered by the
Department of Education
and Timelines for
Implementation and Further
Progress Reporting
Criterion
Number
and
Topic
(Refer to full text
of requirements in
2004-2005 Special
Education
Information
Package)
Implementation
Status of
Requirements
or
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to be
Substantially
Implemented
Method(s) of
Verification
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to
be Not Fully
Implemented or
Additional
Issues Identified
Comments Regarding
Corrective Action Plan
Implementation


had a parent in attendance at the
IEP Team meeting.
16
Findings Regarding
Incomplete
Implementation of
Approved Corrective
Action Plan or
Identification of Additional
Issues of Noncompliance
Further Corrective Action
Ordered by the
Department of Education
and Timelines for
Implementation and Further
Progress Reporting
Criterion
Number
and
Topic
(Refer to full text
of requirements in
2004-2005 Special
Education
Information
Package)
SE 28
Parent provided the
IEP or notice of no
eligibility together
with notification of
procedural
safeguards and
parents' rights
Implementation
Status of
Requirements
or
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to be
Substantially
Implemented
Method(s) of
Verification
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to
be Not Fully
Implemented or
Additional
Issues Identified
Comments Regarding
Corrective Action Plan
Implementation


√
Student record,
interview
The concern at the time of the
2002 Coordinated Program
Review was that parents were not
handed a summary of agreed
upon IEP services at the
conclusion of the IEP Team
meeting.
Student record review in October
2005 indicates that parents are
provided either a cover letter
with the IEP explaining why the
district was proposing the IEP or
a letter notifying parents that the
student is not eligible for special
education and a copy of the
parents’ rights brochure.
Interview indicates that the
district gives parents a handwritten copy of the proposed IEP
at the conclusion of the IEP
Team meeting.
17
Findings Regarding
Incomplete
Implementation of
Approved Corrective
Action Plan or
Identification of Additional
Issues of Noncompliance
Further Corrective Action
Ordered by the
Department of Education
and Timelines for
Implementation and Further
Progress Reporting
Criterion
Number
and
Topic
(Refer to full text
of requirements in
2004-2005 Special
Education
Information
Package)
SE 29
Communications
are in English and
primary language
of home
Implementation
Status of
Requirements
or
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to be
Substantially
Implemented
Method(s) of
Verification
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to
be Not Fully
Implemented or
Additional
Issues Identified
Comments Regarding
Corrective Action Plan
Implementation


√
Documentation,
interview
The concern at the time of the
2002 Coordinated Program
Review was that, although the
district did not have any enrolled
students or their parents who
required translations, the district
had no policy to provide these
services if a student or parent
should require them.
In October 2005 the district
submitted a copy of its policy on
providing translations, if
required.
SE 32
Parent advisory
council for special
education
√
Documentation
The concern at the time of the
2002 Coordinated Program
Review was that the district had
hosted only one Special
Education Parent Advisory
Council meeting.
On March 21, 2005, the district
submitted copies of invitations to
18
Findings Regarding
Incomplete
Implementation of
Approved Corrective
Action Plan or
Identification of Additional
Issues of Noncompliance
Further Corrective Action
Ordered by the
Department of Education
and Timelines for
Implementation and Further
Progress Reporting
Criterion
Number
and
Topic
(Refer to full text
of requirements in
2004-2005 Special
Education
Information
Package)
Implementation
Status of
Requirements
or
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to be
Substantially
Implemented
Method(s) of
Verification
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to
be Not Fully
Implemented or
Additional
Issues Identified
Comments Regarding
Corrective Action Plan
Implementation


several PAC meetings held from
September 2003 – May 2005
along with agendas and sign-in
sheets for these PAC meetings.
19
Findings Regarding
Incomplete
Implementation of
Approved Corrective
Action Plan or
Identification of Additional
Issues of Noncompliance
Further Corrective Action
Ordered by the
Department of Education
and Timelines for
Implementation and Further
Progress Reporting
Criterion
Number
and
Topic
(Refer to full text
of requirements in
2004-2005 Special
Education
Information
Package)
SE 50
Responsibilities of
the School
Principal and
Administrator of
Special Education
Implementation
Status of
Requirements
or
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to be
Substantially
Implemented
Method(s) of
Verification
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to
be Not Fully
Implemented or
Additional
Issues Identified
Comments Regarding
Corrective Action Plan
Implementation


√
Documentation,
interviews
The concern at the time of the
2002 Coordinated Program
Review was that the district had
no Curriculum Accommodation
Plan and interviews indicated
there was no coordination of
services between the Principal
and the Director of Special
Education.
In March 2005, the district
submitted a copy of its
Curriculum Accommodation
Plan, which includes a
description of services available
to limited English proficient
students and job descriptions of
Principals and Administrator of
Special Education.
The district also submitted a
description of local
implementation practices for the
provision of home or hospital
20
Findings Regarding
Incomplete
Implementation of
Approved Corrective
Action Plan or
Identification of Additional
Issues of Noncompliance
Further Corrective Action
Ordered by the
Department of Education
and Timelines for
Implementation and Further
Progress Reporting
Criterion
Number
and
Topic
(Refer to full text
of requirements in
2004-2005 Special
Education
Information
Package)
Implementation
Status of
Requirements
or
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to be
Substantially
Implemented
Method(s) of
Verification
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to
be Not Fully
Implemented or
Additional
Issues Identified
Comments Regarding
Corrective Action Plan
Implementation


services and “Home Hospital
Guidance.”
21
Findings Regarding
Incomplete
Implementation of
Approved Corrective
Action Plan or
Identification of Additional
Issues of Noncompliance
Further Corrective Action
Ordered by the
Department of Education
and Timelines for
Implementation and Further
Progress Reporting
Criterion
Number
and
Topic
(Refer to full text
of requirements in
2004-2005 Special
Education
Information
Package)
SE 54
Professional
development
regarding special
education
Implementation
Status of
Requirements
or
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to be
Substantially
Implemented
Method(s) of
Verification
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to
be Not Fully
Implemented or
Additional
Issues Identified
Comments Regarding
Corrective Action Plan
Implementation


√
Documentation,
interview
The concern at the time of the
2002 Coordinated Program
Review was that the district did
not provide its staff with required
trainings.
In March 2005, the district
submitted a staff training
calendar that gives evidence of
on-going staff training in the area
of special education for the 2003
– 2004 and 2004 – 2005
academic years.
SE 56
Special education
programs and
services are
evaluated
√
Documentation,
interview
The concern at the time of the
2002 Coordinated Program
Review was that there was no
evidence that the district
evaluates its special education
programs.
In October 2005, the district
submitted a description of what
22
Findings Regarding
Incomplete
Implementation of
Approved Corrective
Action Plan or
Identification of Additional
Issues of Noncompliance
Further Corrective Action
Ordered by the
Department of Education
and Timelines for
Implementation and Further
Progress Reporting
Criterion
Number
and
Topic
(Refer to full text
of requirements in
2004-2005 Special
Education
Information
Package)
Implementation
Status of
Requirements
or
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to be
Substantially
Implemented
Method(s) of
Verification
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to
be Not Fully
Implemented or
Additional
Issues Identified
Comments Regarding
Corrective Action Plan
Implementation
Findings Regarding
Incomplete
Implementation of
Approved Corrective
Action Plan or
Identification of Additional
Issues of Noncompliance


data is used to evaluate its special
education programs, who is
involved in analyzing data and
examples of changes that have
been made to the special
education program as a result of
the district’s evaluation of its
programs.
Additional criteria not fully implemented at time of 2001 – 2002 Coordinated Program Review – Special Education Requirements
SE 1
Assessments
appropriately
selected and
interpreted
√
Documentation,
student record,
interview
The concern at the time of the
2002 Coordinated Program
Review was that the district
relied too heavily on one
assessment to determine special
education eligibility.
In March 2005 the district
submitted evidence of ongoing
professional development in the
area of appropriate assessment
selection and interpretation.
23
Further Corrective Action
Ordered by the
Department of Education
and Timelines for
Implementation and Further
Progress Reporting
Criterion
Number
and
Topic
(Refer to full text
of requirements in
2004-2005 Special
Education
Information
Package)
Implementation
Status of
Requirements
or
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to be
Substantially
Implemented
Method(s) of
Verification
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to
be Not Fully
Implemented or
Additional
Issues Identified
Comments Regarding
Corrective Action Plan
Implementation


The district submitted evidence
of its internal investigation of
student records to monitor
compliance with this criterion.
Review of student records in
October 2005 indicated that the
district is now using a variety of
instruments to assess students in
all areas of suspected disability.
SE 2
Required and
optional
assessments
√
Documentation,
student record,
interview
The concern at the time of the
2002 Coordinated Program
Review was that the district did
not appropriately select or
conduct assessments.
In March 2005 the district
submitted evidence that it has
researched and evaluated
assessment options, purchased
assessment tools and attended
professional development in the
area of assessment.
24
Findings Regarding
Incomplete
Implementation of
Approved Corrective
Action Plan or
Identification of Additional
Issues of Noncompliance
Further Corrective Action
Ordered by the
Department of Education
and Timelines for
Implementation and Further
Progress Reporting
Criterion
Number
and
Topic
(Refer to full text
of requirements in
2004-2005 Special
Education
Information
Package)
Implementation
Status of
Requirements
or
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to be
Substantially
Implemented
Method(s) of
Verification
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to
be Not Fully
Implemented or
Additional
Issues Identified
Comments Regarding
Corrective Action Plan
Implementation


Review of student records in
October 2005 indicated that the
district is now using a variety of
instruments to assess students in
all areas of suspected disability.
SE 4
Assessment results
√
Documentation,
student record
The concern at the time of the
2002 Coordinated Program
review was that assessment
results did not provide a detailed,
educationally relevant definition
of the student’s needs and
explicit means to meet those
needs.
In March 2005, the district
submitted copies of sample
assessment summaries and its
revised handbook, “Team
Evaluation Process.”
The district submitted evidence
of its internal investigation of
student records to monitor
25
Findings Regarding
Incomplete
Implementation of
Approved Corrective
Action Plan or
Identification of Additional
Issues of Noncompliance
Further Corrective Action
Ordered by the
Department of Education
and Timelines for
Implementation and Further
Progress Reporting
Criterion
Number
and
Topic
(Refer to full text
of requirements in
2004-2005 Special
Education
Information
Package)
Implementation
Status of
Requirements
or
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to be
Substantially
Implemented
Method(s) of
Verification
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to
be Not Fully
Implemented or
Additional
Issues Identified
Comments Regarding
Corrective Action Plan
Implementation


compliance with this criterion.
Review of student records in
October 2005 indicated that
assessment summaries are now
conducted by a number of
qualified consultants who
provide a range of expertise to
better address the individual
needs of students.
Interviews indicate that the
specialist conducting tests meets
with general education, special
education and vocational
teachers to ensure that
assessment results information is
understood by all staff members.
SE 8
IEP Team
composition
√
Documentation,
student records
The concern at the time of the
2002 Coordinated Program
Review was that general
education teachers did not attend
26
Findings Regarding
Incomplete
Implementation of
Approved Corrective
Action Plan or
Identification of Additional
Issues of Noncompliance
Further Corrective Action
Ordered by the
Department of Education
and Timelines for
Implementation and Further
Progress Reporting
Criterion
Number
and
Topic
(Refer to full text
of requirements in
2004-2005 Special
Education
Information
Package)
Implementation
Status of
Requirements
or
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to be
Substantially
Implemented
Method(s) of
Verification
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to
be Not Fully
Implemented or
Additional
Issues Identified
Comments Regarding
Corrective Action Plan
Implementation


IEP Team meetings.
In March 2005 the district
submitted evidence that it has
hired a substitute teacher to
ensure that general education and
shop teachers attend IEP Team
meetings.
The district submitted evidence
of its internal investigation of
student records to monitor
compliance with this criterion.
Student records indicate that all
required members are in
attendance at IEP meetings.
SE 9
Eligibility
√
Documentation,
interview,
student record
The concern at the time of the
2002 Coordinated Program
Review was that the district did
not use required DOE forms and
because of this the DOE was not
27
Findings Regarding
Incomplete
Implementation of
Approved Corrective
Action Plan or
Identification of Additional
Issues of Noncompliance
Further Corrective Action
Ordered by the
Department of Education
and Timelines for
Implementation and Further
Progress Reporting
Criterion
Number
and
Topic
(Refer to full text
of requirements in
2004-2005 Special
Education
Information
Package)
Implementation
Status of
Requirements
or
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to be
Substantially
Implemented
Method(s) of
Verification
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to
be Not Fully
Implemented or
Additional
Issues Identified
Comments Regarding
Corrective Action Plan
Implementation


able to determine whether the
district met required timelines to
evaluate students and hold IEP
Team meetings.
Student record review in October
2005 indicates that the district is
meeting timelines for conducting
evaluations and holding IEP
Team meetings.
The district reports that staff
members have been trained in a
new process for re-evaluations.
Ongoing training on this topic
consists of feedback sessions
after three-year re-evaluation
Team meetings.
SE 12
Re-evaluations
√
Student record
The concern at the time of the
2005 Coordinated Program
Review was that the district was
not conducting 3-yr reevaluations.
28
Findings Regarding
Incomplete
Implementation of
Approved Corrective
Action Plan or
Identification of Additional
Issues of Noncompliance
Further Corrective Action
Ordered by the
Department of Education
and Timelines for
Implementation and Further
Progress Reporting
Criterion
Number
and
Topic
(Refer to full text
of requirements in
2004-2005 Special
Education
Information
Package)
Implementation
Status of
Requirements
or
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to be
Substantially
Implemented
Method(s) of
Verification
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to
be Not Fully
Implemented or
Additional
Issues Identified
Comments Regarding
Corrective Action Plan
Implementation


Student record review in October
2005 indicates that three year
reevaluations are conducted
within required timelines.
SE 24
Notice to parent
√
Documentation,
student record
The concern at the time of the
2002 Coordinated Program
Review was that the district was
not sending out any required
notices to parents.
In March 2005, the district
submitted copies of handouts and
memos to staff members
regarding staff training on FAPE
and parental consent regarding
functional behavioral assessment
and manifestation
determinations.
Student record review in October
2005 indicates that the district is
now sending out required notices
to parents.
29
Findings Regarding
Incomplete
Implementation of
Approved Corrective
Action Plan or
Identification of Additional
Issues of Noncompliance
Further Corrective Action
Ordered by the
Department of Education
and Timelines for
Implementation and Further
Progress Reporting
Criterion
Number
and
Topic
(Refer to full text
of requirements in
2004-2005 Special
Education
Information
Package)
SE 25
Parental consent
Implementation
Status of
Requirements
or
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to be
Substantially
Implemented
Method(s) of
Verification
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to
be Not Fully
Implemented or
Additional
Issues Identified
Comments Regarding
Corrective Action Plan
Implementation


√
Documentation,
student record
The concern at the time of the
2002 Coordinated Program
Review was that the district was
not sending out required consent
forms.
Student record review in October
2005 indicates that the district is
not obtaining required parental
consent using DOE
recommended forms.
In March 2005, the district
submitted copies of handouts and
memos to staff members
regarding staff training on FAPE
and parental consent.
SE 33
Involvement in
general curriculum
√
Documentation,
interview,
student record
The concern at the time of the
2002 Coordinated Program
Review was that there was no
thoughtful discussion at IEP
30
Findings Regarding
Incomplete
Implementation of
Approved Corrective
Action Plan or
Identification of Additional
Issues of Noncompliance
Further Corrective Action
Ordered by the
Department of Education
and Timelines for
Implementation and Further
Progress Reporting
Criterion
Number
and
Topic
(Refer to full text
of requirements in
2004-2005 Special
Education
Information
Package)
Implementation
Status of
Requirements
or
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to be
Substantially
Implemented
Method(s) of
Verification
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to
be Not Fully
Implemented or
Additional
Issues Identified
Comments Regarding
Corrective Action Plan
Implementation


Team meetings of how students
will participate in the general
curriculum with the necessary
accommodations and
modifications.
In March 2005, the district
submitted copies of textbooks,
technology and equipment it has
purchased to accommodate
special education students in the
classroom.
The district also reports that it
increased opportunities for
mutual planning time and
cooperative teaching between
general and special education
staff members.
Student record review indicates
that the district is recording
necessary accommodations and
modifications in IEPs.
31
Findings Regarding
Incomplete
Implementation of
Approved Corrective
Action Plan or
Identification of Additional
Issues of Noncompliance
Further Corrective Action
Ordered by the
Department of Education
and Timelines for
Implementation and Further
Progress Reporting
Criterion
Number
and
Topic
(Refer to full text
of requirements in
2004-2005 Special
Education
Information
Package)
SE 34
Continuum of
alternate services
and placements
Implementation
Status of
Requirements
or
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to be
Substantially
Implemented
Method(s) of
Verification
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to
be Not Fully
Implemented or
Additional
Issues Identified
Comments Regarding
Corrective Action Plan
Implementation


√
Documentation,
interview,
student records
See comment under SE 20
regarding continuum of alternate
services and placements.
In March 2005, the district
submitted evidence that it has
increased its provision of related
services and reports that it is
creating an expanded list of
resources to provide services.
The district has hired a Spanish
teacher who is qualified to
provide LEP services if needed,
under the supervision of a
contracted LEP coordinator, a
highly qualified speech and
language assistant who is
supervised by a consulting
Speech and Language
Pathologist, a consultant from the
Willie Ross School for the Deaf.
The district has also expanded its
32
Findings Regarding
Incomplete
Implementation of
Approved Corrective
Action Plan or
Identification of Additional
Issues of Noncompliance
Further Corrective Action
Ordered by the
Department of Education
and Timelines for
Implementation and Further
Progress Reporting
Criterion
Number
and
Topic
(Refer to full text
of requirements in
2004-2005 Special
Education
Information
Package)
Implementation
Status of
Requirements
or
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to be
Substantially
Implemented
Method(s) of
Verification
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to
be Not Fully
Implemented or
Additional
Issues Identified
Comments Regarding
Corrective Action Plan
Implementation


contracts for psychological
testing, counseling and
consultation.
SE 35
Materials and
Technology
√
Documentation
The concern at the time of the
2002 Coordinated Program
Review was that assistive
technology needs are not
discussed at IEP Team meetings.
The district submitted evidence
that it has purchased materials
and technology and has trained
staff on its use.
Review of student records
indicate that the need for
assistive technology is
documented on the IEP.
SE 36
IEP
√
Documentation
review,
The concern at the time of the
2002 Coordinated Program
Review was that the district did
33
Findings Regarding
Incomplete
Implementation of
Approved Corrective
Action Plan or
Identification of Additional
Issues of Noncompliance
Further Corrective Action
Ordered by the
Department of Education
and Timelines for
Implementation and Further
Progress Reporting
Criterion
Number
and
Topic
(Refer to full text
of requirements in
2004-2005 Special
Education
Information
Package)
Implementation
Status of
Requirements
or
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to be
Substantially
Implemented
Method(s) of
Verification
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to
be Not Fully
Implemented or
Additional
Issues Identified
Comments Regarding
Corrective Action Plan
Implementation


implementation
interview
not have a process to monitor
whether staff members are
carrying out required IEP
services.
See comment under SE 22.
The district has also developed a
notebook of IEP summaries that
teachers are required to sign and
date to indicate that they have
read the IEPs of students
assigned to their classes.
SE 43
Behavioral
interventions
√
Documentation,
interview
The concern at the time of the
2002 Coordinated Program
Review was that the district did
not have policies or procedures
to consider a student’s behavior,
positive behavior reinforcements
or the ability to follow the
discipline code.
In March 2005, the district
submitted a copy of its
34
Findings Regarding
Incomplete
Implementation of
Approved Corrective
Action Plan or
Identification of Additional
Issues of Noncompliance
Further Corrective Action
Ordered by the
Department of Education
and Timelines for
Implementation and Further
Progress Reporting
Criterion
Number
and
Topic
(Refer to full text
of requirements in
2004-2005 Special
Education
Information
Package)
Implementation
Status of
Requirements
or
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to be
Substantially
Implemented
Method(s) of
Verification
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to
be Not Fully
Implemented or
Additional
Issues Identified
Comments Regarding
Corrective Action Plan
Implementation


suspension log and indicated
students with a disability who
have been suspended. The
district also submitted a copy of a
student behavior plan with
positive behavior supports.
The district reports that its
review of data shows that the use
of in-school suspension had little
long-term positive effect on
student behavior or benefit for
student. In response to this data,
the district has trained all staff on
positive behavior interventions.
These workshops by a school
psychologist and ongoing use of
preventive discipline by staff
members have reduced
behavioral incidents.
SE 44
Recording
suspensions
√
Documentation
The concern at the time of the
Coordinated Program Review in
2002 was that the district had no
35
Findings Regarding
Incomplete
Implementation of
Approved Corrective
Action Plan or
Identification of Additional
Issues of Noncompliance
Further Corrective Action
Ordered by the
Department of Education
and Timelines for
Implementation and Further
Progress Reporting
Criterion
Number
and
Topic
(Refer to full text
of requirements in
2004-2005 Special
Education
Information
Package)
Implementation
Status of
Requirements
or
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to be
Substantially
Implemented
Method(s) of
Verification
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to
be Not Fully
Implemented or
Additional
Issues Identified
Comments Regarding
Corrective Action Plan
Implementation


procedures for recording
suspensions.
In March 2005 the district
submitted a copy of its
suspension log and indicated
students with a disability who
have been suspended to give
evidence that it is following its
procedure to record suspensions
of students with disabilities.
SE 45
Suspensions of 10
days – general
procedures
√
Documentation,
interviews
The concern at the time of the
2002 Coordinated Program
Review was that the district had
no policy describing the district’s
process when students are
suspended more than 10 days.
In March 2005 the district
submitted a copy of its policies
on suspension that were reviewed
and finalized for the Special
Education Handbook. Interviews
indicate that these policies are
36
Findings Regarding
Incomplete
Implementation of
Approved Corrective
Action Plan or
Identification of Additional
Issues of Noncompliance
Further Corrective Action
Ordered by the
Department of Education
and Timelines for
Implementation and Further
Progress Reporting
Criterion
Number
and
Topic
(Refer to full text
of requirements in
2004-2005 Special
Education
Information
Package)
Implementation
Status of
Requirements
or
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to be
Substantially
Implemented
Method(s) of
Verification
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to
be Not Fully
Implemented or
Additional
Issues Identified
Comments Regarding
Corrective Action Plan
Implementation


being consistently implemented.
SE 46
Suspension of 10
days – district
responsibilities
√
SE 52
Credentials of
related services
staff
√
Documents,
interview
See comment under SE 46.
In October 2005 the district
submitted a copy of receipts for a
certified special education tutor it
provided to special education
students who reached more than
10 days of suspension. One
student was tutored at home.
The other student was tutored at
the school building after regular
school hours.
Documentation,
student record,
interview
The concern at the time of the
2002 Coordinated Program
Review was that the district
provided virtually no related
services to students; only one
student received physical
therapy.
37
Findings Regarding
Incomplete
Implementation of
Approved Corrective
Action Plan or
Identification of Additional
Issues of Noncompliance
Further Corrective Action
Ordered by the
Department of Education
and Timelines for
Implementation and Further
Progress Reporting
Criterion
Number
and
Topic
(Refer to full text
of requirements in
2004-2005 Special
Education
Information
Package)
Implementation
Status of
Requirements
or
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to be
Substantially
Implemented
Method(s) of
Verification
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to
be Not Fully
Implemented or
Additional
Issues Identified
Comments Regarding
Corrective Action Plan
Implementation
Findings Regarding
Incomplete
Implementation of
Approved Corrective
Action Plan or
Identification of Additional
Issues of Noncompliance
Further Corrective Action
Ordered by the
Department of Education
and Timelines for
Implementation and Further
Progress Reporting


The district submitted a copy of
the DOE license for its school
psychologist.
Student record review indicated
that the district is recording the
need for related services on IEPs.
Additional criteria not fully implemented at time of 2001 – 2002 Coordinated Program Review – Title I Requirements
TI 5
Criteria to identify
eligible students
√
The district submitted
student selection criteria but
no evidence of rank
ordering.
Submit rank-order lists of
participating students by subject
and grade level. Please assign
points to the objective academic
criteria (teacher recommendation
list).
Submit this documentation to the
Department of Education by
January 15, 2006.
TI 7
√
38
The district submitted a
Submit documentation of policies
Criterion
Number
and
Topic
(Refer to full text
of requirements in
2004-2005 Special
Education
Information
Package)
Implementation
Status of
Requirements
or
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to be
Substantially
Implemented
Method(s) of
Verification
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to
be Not Fully
Implemented or
Additional
Issues Identified
Comments Regarding
Corrective Action Plan
Implementation
Findings Regarding
Incomplete
Implementation of
Approved Corrective
Action Plan or
Identification of Additional
Issues of Noncompliance
Further Corrective Action
Ordered by the
Department of Education
and Timelines for
Implementation and Further
Progress Reporting


Developing criteria
in consultation
corrective action plan with
no evidence of
implementation.
and procedures that show an
implementation of the Corrective
Action Plan.
Submit rank-order lists of
participating students by subject
and grade level. Please assign
points to the objective academic
criteria (teacher recommendation
list).
Submit this documentation to the
Department of Education by
January 15, 2006.
TI 9
Identifying eligible
special education
students
√
39
The Corrective Action Plan
ordered has not been
implemented.
Submit student selection criteria
sheets and policy for selection
processes that ensures equal
opportunity for participation in the
Title 1 program and in accordance
with supplement not supplant
provisions.
Criterion
Number
and
Topic
(Refer to full text
of requirements in
2004-2005 Special
Education
Information
Package)
Implementation
Status of
Requirements
or
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to be
Substantially
Implemented
Method(s) of
Verification
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to
be Not Fully
Implemented or
Additional
Issues Identified
Comments Regarding
Corrective Action Plan
Implementation
Findings Regarding
Incomplete
Implementation of
Approved Corrective
Action Plan or
Identification of Additional
Issues of Noncompliance
Further Corrective Action
Ordered by the
Department of Education
and Timelines for
Implementation and Further
Progress Reporting


Submit rank-order lists of
participating students by subject
and grade level. Please assign
points to the objective academic
criteria (teacher recommendation
list).
Submit this documentation to the
Department of Education by
January 15, 2006.
TI 10
Parent involvement
in planning and
review
√
The Corrective Action Plan
ordered has not been
implemented.
Submit a plan and process for
developing parent involvement
policies and procedures with
parental input into program
planning, implementation, and
review.
Submit this documentation to the
Department of Education by
January 15, 2006.
40
Criterion
Number
and
Topic
(Refer to full text
of requirements in
2004-2005 Special
Education
Information
Package)
Implementation
Status of
Requirements
or
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to be
Substantially
Implemented
Method(s) of
Verification
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to
be Not Fully
Implemented or
Additional
Issues Identified
Comments Regarding
Corrective Action Plan
Implementation
Findings Regarding
Incomplete
Implementation of
Approved Corrective
Action Plan or
Identification of Additional
Issues of Noncompliance
Further Corrective Action
Ordered by the
Department of Education
and Timelines for
Implementation and Further
Progress Reporting


√
TI 11A
Training for parents
The Corrective Action Plan
ordered has not been
implemented.
Submit a plan that specifies parent
involvement training activities, a
means to verify their occurrence.
Submit this documentation to the
Department of Education by
January 15, 2006.
TI 12
Curriculum
frameworks
√
The Corrective Action Plan
ordered has not been
implemented.
Submit a corrective action plan
that shows the development of a
procedure to assess Title 1 student
progress and a means to report
progress to parents.
Submit this documentation to the
Department of Education by
January 15, 2006.
41