At the Sherwood School District, we are deeply committed to providing a Free and Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) to every student and family who qualifies for special education under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). We believe that every child deserves the opportunity to thrive, and we are passionate about providing the individualized education and services they need to succeed. Under IDEA, we ensure that each student receives a free and appropriate public education, tailored to their unique strengths and needs, and delivered in the least restrictive environment.
We are here to partner with you on this journey. For more information, feel free to reach out to your child’s teacher, the building’s special education teacher, or the school Principal. You can also contact the Sherwood School District Student Services Department at (503) 825-5031. We’re here to help, and we look forward to supporting your child’s success.
Services
Sherwood School District offers a wide range of services designed to meet the individualized needs of each student with a disability. These services include specially designed instruction, personalized accommodations, and related supports and services, all aimed at helping students achieve their academic and functional goals.
Our approach emphasizes collaboration between general and special education teams, ensuring that students receive the right support within their classrooms and through targeted interventions. Services are provided both in the general education setting and in pull-out small groups or individual instruction through direct instruction, small group work, or individualized strategies.
We are committed to empowering all students by providing the necessary resources and support to help them succeed and reach their full potential.
Child Find Statement
Child Find: Ensuring Every Child Receives the Support They Need
The Sherwood School District is committed to identifying, locating, and evaluating all children with disabilities who may be in need of special education and related services. This effort, known as Child Find, is part of our dedication to ensuring that every child, from birth through age 21, has access to the appropriate educational support necessary for success.
What is Child Find?
Child Find is a legal requirement under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Oregon law that mandates school districts to actively seek out and identify children who may have disabilities. This includes children who are homeschooled, attending private schools, or are not yet enrolled in school, as well as those who may be experiencing challenges in their learning, behavior, or development. Sherwood School District is actively seeking to identify children who may have disabilities.
Who is Eligible?
Any child, from birth to 21 years old, who may have a disability and requires special education services, is eligible for evaluation through Child Find. Disabilities can range from physical, cognitive, and emotional to developmental delays that may impact the child’s ability to learn and participate in typical school activities.
How Does Child Find Work?
If you suspect that your child may have a disability and might benefit from special education services, please contact your child’s teacher. Our team will work with you to consider if a free and comprehensive evaluation is required to determine if your child qualifies for special education services under IDEA.
Contact Us
If you have concerns about your child’s development or learning, or if you would like more information about Child Find, please contact the Sherwood School District Student Services Department at (503) 825-5031. We are here to support you and ensure that every child in our community receives the education and resources they need to succeed. * For children younger than kindergarten, please telephone the NWRESD at 403-614-1428
Placement Options
Our Commitment to Inclusive Education: Least Restrictive Environment
The Sherwood School District is dedicated to providing an inclusive education for students, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to learn and thrive in the least restrictive environment. We offer a continuum of special education placement options tailored to meet the unique needs of each student. While a range of supports is available, nearly all students with disabilities in our district are educated in their neighborhood school, reflecting our commitment to inclusion and community.
In general, the following placement options are available:
- General Education Classroom: Most students receive specially designed instruction from their classroom teacher, with consultation and support from a Learning Specialist to monitor progress toward IEP goals and objectives. In some cases, classes may also be co-taught by both a general education teacher and a special education teacher, fostering an inclusive and collaborative learning environment.
- Resource Room: Each of our elementary schools has 1-2 Learning Specialists who case manage and provide instruction to students with IEPs. Based on individual needs, instruction may take place within the general education classroom and/or in specially designed classes for a portion of the school day. This approach ensures that students receive the support they need while remaining connected to their peers.
- Skills Center: Available at all educational levels, our Skills Centers provide more intensive, individualized instruction for students with a range of disabilities. These programs focus on both life skills and academics, offering a comprehensive approach to education. Skills Centers are located at Archer Glen Elementary (Kindergarten), Middleton Elementary (Grades 1-5), Sherwood Middle School, and Sherwood High School, ensuring access to specialized support across the district.
A very small number of Sherwood students are educated in partnership with specialized programs located outside of the district. We are proud of our inclusive approach, which values each student as a vital member of our community.
Special Education Report Card
Under the requirements of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) 2004, the Oregon Department of Education publishes an annual Special Education report card as part of the State Performance Plan. You can see the Sherwood School Districts Special Education Report Card by clicking on the link below. If you have any questions contact Eryn Gonzales, Student Services Director at 503-825-5032.
