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East Newton School District

Home of the Patriots

Special Services Home

Every Student. Every Ability. Every Opportunity.

 

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Special Services
Special Services Director: Sara Mathis
Phone: (417) 472-6233

 

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Process Coordinator: Makayla Clark
Phone: (417) 472-7124

 

504 Coordinator: Shelli Copeland
Phone: (417) 472-7124

 

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Administrative Assistant: Jan Harris
Phone: (417) 472-7583

The Special Services Department is dedicated to ensuring that every student has access to a meaningful, inclusive, and supportive educational experience. We believe that all students deserve the opportunity to learn, grow, develop their strengths, and reach their fullest potential.

Our department works collaboratively with students, families, educators, and community partners to identify individual needs, remove barriers to learning, and provide appropriate services and supports. Through individualized instruction, specialized services, and a commitment to educational equity, we strive to create learning environments where every student feels valued, respected, and empowered to succeed.

The Special Services Department supports the identification, evaluation, and provision of special education and related services for eligible students in accordance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), the Missouri Standards and Indicators, and applicable state and federal regulations.

Our services include:

  • Special Education Services: Individualized instruction and support designed to meet students’ unique educational needs.
  • Evaluation and Eligibility: Comprehensive evaluation process to determine eligibility for special education and related services.
  • Individualized Education Programs (IEPs): Collaborative development and implementation of educational plans that address individual student strengths, needs, and goals.
  • Related Services:  Coordination of services such as speech-language therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, and other supports as determined by the individual student needs.
  • Family and School Collaboration:  Partnerships that encourage meaningful communication, shared decision-making, and active family participation in the educational process.
  • Transition Planning:  Supporting students as they prepare for future educational opportunities, employment, independent living, and life beyond high school.

 

Our Commitment

We recognize that every student brings unique abilities, experiences, and perspectives to our school. We are committed to fostering a culture of belonging, promoting independence, encouraging self-advocacy, and celebrating individual growth and achievement.

Our goal is not to simply provide services, but to create opportunities, build confidence, and ensure that every student knows they are an important and valued member of our school community.

Together, we can help every student find their path to success.