Special Education

The Benton Harbor Area Schools (BHAS) Special Education Department is responsible for the supervision of programs and services for students with disabilities who qualify for special education. The department is responsible for the development and updates to the Individualized Education Program or IEP document for each student identified for programs and/or services¹. 

The department ensures compliance with federal mandates relating to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act (IDEIA), and State of Michigan mandates as outlined in the Michigan Administrative Rules for Special Education (MARSE). In accordance with the state’s Child Find guidelines, the Benton Harbor Area School District is responsible for servicing students from ages 0 through 26.

The BHAS Special Education Handbook is designed to provide clear and concise guidelines and expectations for all district employees. The handbook provides explanations, definitions, and processes for administering the appropriate services for students with IEPs and their families.

Special education is in place to provide additional services, support, programs, specialized placements or environments to ensure that all students’ educational needs are met. Often, special education is understood and discussed in isolation; however, these services and programs are administered through the general education framework. Benton Harbor administrators, teachers, and staff are encouraged to become familiar with special education programming, services, and guidance to ensure that all district and school processes are aligned.

_{¹ Every student identified for special education programs and services are members of the general education population.}