Disability Services

Special Education

The guiding principles for our Special Education program in the Knoxville Community Schools are aligned with state law and the federal Individuals with Disability Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) law.  The guiding principles are:

  • KCSD special education students are general education students first.

  • KCSD will provide access to a special education service continuum for all eligible individuals based on their Individual Education Plan (IEP).  

  • KCSD special education students will receive services in the least restrictive environment (LRE) to best meet their individual needs.

  • FAPE (Free Appropriate Public Education) is provided to all students eligible for services due to their disability.

  • KCSD students may receive different services at multiple points along the continuum based on the IEP and their individual needs.

  • Access to a guaranteed and viable curriculum (Iowa Core and other required state and national standards) is a priority for all KCSD students. 

  • KCSD students who are removed from their general education classrooms for any length of time will engage in effective instructional activities.

  • KCSD special education teachers will possess the skills necessary for working effectively with their roster students.  

  • KCSD special education students will be prepared for living, learning, and working following graduation from high school at KCSD.

  • KCSD Special Education Advisory Committee will examine the services annually to determine the availability of programs within the district.

  • KCSD associates and paraprofessionals can provide support at any level on the continuum with the understanding that the teacher (general education and/or special education) is ultimately responsible for the instruction.  

  • KCSD services may be provided within the district or through contractual agreements with other districts and/or agencies. 

Additional Resources for Special Education:
Iowa IDEA Information
Heartland AEA
KCSD District Delivery Plan

Section 504

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 prohibits schools from discriminating against students with disabilities. All accredited Iowa schools must comply with Section 504. Section 504 applies to elementary and secondary education, preschool and adult education, and private education.

For more information on consideration of a 504 Plan for your child, please contact your child’s school counselor or the Director of Special Education. The school contact will then take steps to convene a team of individuals who are knowledgeable about your child to determine, based on evaluation data, if a 504 Plan is warranted for your child.

Additional Resources for Section 504:
KCSD Section 504  Reference Guide
Iowa Department of Education Section 504 Information