The aim of special education schools in NYC is to provide
special students with equal opportunity to acquire the appropriate
skills and knowledge, give them a chance to stand on their own feet, and
maximize their potential as an individual and as
members of the greater society.
The goal is to develop a suitable learning environment for
special students as per their learning needs at an individual level.
It should be mentioned here that special education is an
umbrella term that offers services to students suffering from physical, mental,
learning or any other social-emotional challenges.
Special education considers every student with special
needs as capable individuals with a multitude of talents and skills, around which a unique educational program is
structured.
Thus, the focus is on individual progress and challenges rather
than group-oriented studies and various measures are taken to ensure the same.
It involves forming a certain educational plan for each student, keeping in
view their different learning needs. It also includes exemption from common
educational norms not suitable for students with special needs or the allotment
of extra time and favorable exam locations.
Special education schools in NYC provide appropriate support
and structure to students with special learning needs and also make efforts to
improve their communication and emotional processing capabilities. It involves
conducting music, occupational and psychological therapies.
Another important aspect of special education schools in NYC
is the active involvement of parents in the education of their children. Their
progress is discussed with parents at weekly
scheduled meetings and in informal discussions from time-to-time.
Such meetings are also vital in helping parents overcome the
challenges they might be facing in providing a wholesome upbringing to their
children.
Some schools also assign a social worker who works as a mediator between parents and the
school.
The aim is to provide special students with the apposite support and guidance in school as well as at
home and help them succeed in various fields of their life.
