The term "Special Education" means specifically designed instruction to meet the unique needs of a child with a disability.

The vision of the Special Education Department is for the Austin Independent School District to provide every student with an excellent education such that

• students are successful,
• parents are partners, and
• educators are empowered.

The mission of the Special Education Department is to promote the understanding of what is meant by "every" student and the individual nature of an "excellent education."

The purpose of the Special Education Department is to teach all staff about the support and services they need to provide in order to make the vision of AISD a reality for all students.

The core values of the Special Education Department guide us as we take the opportunity to do meaningful work for children, which encourages hope, support, joy, passion, and lifelong learning.

KIDS
RELATIONSHIPS
RESPONSE TO A CALLING
GRATIFICATION
HELPING
JOY IN WORK
COMMUNICATION
COURAGE

The work of the Special Education Department is conducted with care, integrity, fairness, patience, and respect for everyone.

Special Education Goals 2008-2009

• AISD will meet the state standard for inclusive placements to support enrolled grade level instruction.
• AISD will ensure that no ethnic or racial group is disproportionately represented in special education.
• AISD will build collaborative, trusting relationships with parents and community partners.
• AISD will meet the state standard of 8.5% of students identified as students with disabilities.
• AISD special education programs will become standardized in practices and services while meeting the individual education plan of students.
• AISD staff consistently implement special education procedures per the operating guidelines.