OFFICE OF SPECIAL EDUCATION AND BEHAVIORAL/ACADEMIC INTERVENTION

Members of the Office of Special Education 

Mrs. Shelly Harper

Director of Special Services

Harpersh@orange.k12.nj.us

Dr. Janet McClouden

Supervisor of Special Services

McClouJa@orange.k12.nj.us

Mission Statement

Department of Special Services

The Special Services Department provides an appropriate education for students with disabilities, in the least restrictive environment, that will enable them to reach their full potential, both academically and emotionally, and to become functioning members of society.  Students are encouraged to participate in general education classes whenever possible with the appropriate modifications, accommodations, and supplementary aids and services.

The Special Services Department consists of a Director, Supervisors, School Psychologists, Social Workers, Learning Disabilities Teacher-Consultants, Special Education Teachers, Speech/Language Specialists, Occupational and Physical Therapists, Behaviorist, and teacher assistants.  Together we plan and provide educational programs for students with disabilities in partnership with general education staff, administration, and parents. 

Our Child Study Team members are dedicated and committed professionals who are very responsive to parental concerns.  The Child Study Team evaluates students to determine eligibility for special education and related services, develops Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) for classified students, monitors and assesses the effectiveness of each classified students’ IEP, and provides consultation and support to school staff.

We believe that each child can learn when provided the opportunity in an evolving educational environment.  It is our responsibility to foster within each child the belief that value through discovering their interests, talents, developing their individual skills, and encouraging self-confidence and independence.   It is our belief that families play a valuable and an essential part of the education process for their children.   Their aspirations for and insights about their children help understand and plan for the future of their children’s education.