Special Education
At Colonel Smith Middle School, we are committed to ensuring that every student has the opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed. Through our Panther PRIDE values of Positive Mindset, Resilience, Integrity, Dedication, and Empathy, we believe all students deserve a supportive, inclusive, and challenging educational experience.
Our Special Education program provides individualized support and services designed to meet the unique learning needs of eligible students. Our dedicated team of special education teachers (Mrs. MacLagan) and paraprofessionals, related service providers across the district, general education teachers, counselor (Mrs. Hooper), and site/district administrators work collaboratively with students and families to develop meaningful educational plans that support academic achievement, independence, and personal growth.
Special education services at CSMS are guided by each student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP). These plans are developed through collaboration among families, educators, and support staff to identify student strengths, areas of growth, appropriate accommodations, specialized instruction, and goals for success. Our team focuses on providing students with access to rigorous grade-level instruction while delivering targeted supports based on individual needs.
Our school-wide special education services include:
- Specialized academic instruction tailored to individual student needs
- Co-teaching and collaborative instructional support in general education classrooms
- Small-group instruction and intervention focused on specific skill development
- Accommodations and modifications that support student access and success
- Progress monitoring and data-based decision making to ensure students are making growth
- Transition planning and preparation to support students as they progress through middle school and beyond
- Social-emotional and behavioral supports that promote student confidence, self-advocacy, and positive relationships
At Colonel Smith Middle School, we believe that inclusion, collaboration, and high expectations create opportunities for every Panther to thrive. Our staff is dedicated to partnering with families to ensure students receive the support they need while developing the skills, confidence, and independence necessary for lifelong success.
Together, we help every Panther grow and achieve their full potential!