Special Education

Resource Specialist Program (RSP)/Designated Instructional Services (DIS)

The Resource Specialist Program (RSP) is an educational program designed to meet the needs of students with identified learning disabilities requiring specialized small group or individual instruction on a regular on-going basis during a part or all of the school year. This program is designed to meet the needs of the individual student based on the child’s Individualized Education Plan (IEP). Designated Instructional Services (DIS), such as speech/language therapy and counseling, are determined by the IEP team. These services are supplemental services that are necessary for a student to benefit from his/her special education program.

Nicasio School contracts with Marin County Office of Education (MCOE) to provide several part-time special education employees throughout the school week, including a Resource Specialist, Psychologist, and Speech & Language Therapist. Through these support personnel, most special education needs are able to be met on the school's campus. In rare situations where students have greater needs than can be provided for on campus, Nicasio School arranges for appropriate placement in other local area schools (public and private).

Special education eligibility is determined through a process of assessments conducted by members of our special education team (resource specialist, psychologist, speech/language specialist). Generally, students are referred for assessment by their classroom teachers. However, assessments will not be conducted without parental consent. If parents are concerned that their child may have a disability impacting their child’s learning, they may request assessments. A student study team consisting of the principal, classroom teacher, special education team members, and parents will work together to determine whether a referral for special education assessments is appropriate.

Below are valuable parent resources and information: