Special Education covers a large range of needs such as physical disabilities, educational supports, behavioral health, and psychology services, among others. Special needs spaces shall be provided in the least restrictive environment (LRE), such that children with disabilities must be educated with students who do not have disabilities as much as possible. These spaces shall be inclusive, equitable, and integrated within the fabric of the school.

Classrooms

Classrooms shall be enhanced to address specific needs, depending on the school and program. Some self-contained classrooms will need infrastructure for larger lift capabilities and self-contained students.  Additional space is needed for various types of orientation and mobility equipment allowing for ease of moving about the classroom.  Other classrooms will be like standard classrooms but flexible enough to cover different aids and lessons such as speech therapy, occupational therapy, or other specialized resources for students attending intermittently.  Furniture should be flexible, with the ability to easily move or reconfigure.

Vocational classrooms shall have the ability to be configured for a mock register environment or mock apartment to practice life skills.  Laundry is also needed for this space.

Image: Summerwind K8

Sensory Rooms

Provide sensory spaces and motor labs with color spectrum control and dimmable lighting. Enhance acoustic separation from adjacent spaces, and include music incorporation and views to nature. Incorporate soft seating.

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Accessible Restrooms

In addition to the code-required wheelchair and ambulatory accessory toilet rooms and stalls, also provide restrooms for assisted use that include a Hoyer lift, changing table, and ample room for maneuvering with three people. This room shall be accessible to the entire school and ideally part of a larger group restroom space, as well as within or directly adjacent to the classroom.

Image: Heard Museum

Offices

Offices for related service and SPED providers shall be equipped to a specific need and shall be equipped with full spectrum lighting, enhanced acoustics, and flexible furniture for a comfortable and calming environment. The function of the space is to provide individual or small group interaction and learning, as well as typical office functions.  Spaces need to be flexible for multiple or itinerant providers.

Image: West Park HS