District Philosophy

The Pleasantville Union Free School District is committed to educating students with disabilities within its own schools, whenever appropriate. The Committee on Special Education and the Committee on Preschool Special Education shall recommend programs and/or services that provide for a free and appropriate public education based on the individual learning needs of the student. All school-aged students with disabilities shall be provided the opportunity to participate in the curricular and extracurricular programs of the district.

Program Objectives

• Foster growth and independence in academic, social, and emotional domains for students with disabilities.
• Promote a positive self-image for students with disabilities.
• Encourage social interaction and mutual understanding among disabled and nondisabled students.
• Further understanding of disabilities among staff, students, and the community.
• Encourage involvement and support for parents of students with disabilities.
• Provide ongoing consultation and in-service training for school personnel who work with students with disabilities.
• Facilitate the transition from high school to post-secondary education programs or employment for students with disabilities.
• Continue to assess the efficacy of the district’s special education program in meeting the needs of students with disabilities.
• Develop innovative options for serving students with disabilities that reflect current research on effective practices.
• Work cooperatively with staff of out-of-district programs and private schools serving students placed by the Pleasantville Committee on Special Education and the Committee on Preschool Special Education to ensure effective programming for students educated outside of the district.