The Special Education Department provides a continuum of services to students with disabilities. We start with the premise that the general education classroom is the first consideration for all students. Based on that premise, services intensify depending upon the IEP developed and the services identified as necessary to meet the students’ individual needs. The CDC classroom is one service delivery model on that continuum.

 

Students enrolled in CDC classroom have been identified as needing a small, structured environment where core academic areas are addressed at the student’s instructional level while still tying the instruction to curriculum standards. Typically, students in this environment have deficits across the curriculum that are significantly below grade level. These students might have significant cognitive deficits as well. In addition to emphasizing academic progress, social skill, self-advocacy, and transition into adult living are important aspects in the program. The advantage of this model is that students have the opportunity to become familiar with their cohort group and their teachers which remains consistent for at least one academic school year.

 

This particular service delivery model is available at every level in Knox County: elementary, middle, and high. The department makes every effort to keep a small pupil-teacher ratio in these classes. Since services follow the students, it is possible for the location of these classes to change slightly from year to year. Students served in these classes still have access to school resources and activities that are appropriate and beneficial for them. Placement in a Comprehensive Development Classroom is decided by the IEP Team.