Subject: Special Education Town Hall Follow-Up
Date: April 24, 2026 at 9:48:23 AM EDT
Dear Montclair Community,
Thank you to everyone who joined us for our recent Special Education Town Hall. We appreciate your time, your questions, and your continued partnership as we work to support all our students.
For those who were unable to attend, the full recording is available HERE.
The recording is also posted on our district website alongside previous town halls and Board of Education meetings.
During the town hall, our Department of Pupil Services provided a comprehensive overview of how we are supporting students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), particularly considering upcoming school transitions.
Key Highlights Included:
Continuity of Services:
Students will continue to receive all programs and supports outlined in their IEPs, regardless of school location. Services remain individualized, consistent, and aligned to each student’s needs.
Programs and Supports:
Our district continues to provide a full range of services, including in-class resource support, pull-out services, self-contained programs, and related services such as speech, occupational therapy, counseling, and more.
Staffing and Service Delivery:
Staffing decisions are driven by student needs, not building location. Case managers and service providers will remain consistent, ensuring continuity and stability for students and families.
Support in the Classroom:
Students with IEPs will continue to access grade-level curriculum with appropriate supports, accommodations, and modifications, within the least restrictive environment whenever possible.
Transition Planning:
As students transition between schools, collaborative planning is underway to ensure a smooth and thoughtful process. This includes individualized planning, family engagement opportunities, and coordination between sending and receiving schools.
Extended School Year (ESY):
Information was shared about ESY programming for Summer 2026, including eligibility criteria, services offered, and program structure to support students in maintaining progress toward their IEP goals.
Most importantly, we reaffirmed a central commitment: while locations may change, the supports and services our students receive will remain consistent and centered on their individual needs.
We understand that change can bring questions and uncertainty. Please know that we are committed to clear communication, thoughtful planning, and ensuring every student continues to receive the support they need to thrive.
If you have additional questions, we encourage you to reach out to your child’s case manager or the Department of Pupil Services.
Thank you for your continued trust and partnership.
“Inclusive education is not a privilege. It is a fundamental human right.” Ban Ki-moon
Warmly,
Ruth B. Turner
Superintendent of Schools
Montclair Public Schools