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Special Education
Director of Special Education
Co-Gifted Coordinator
Title IV District Investigator
Dear Northwestern Community,
As a longtime member of the Northwestern family and a proud parent of Northwestern graduates, I am honored to serve in three important roles that support our students, staff, and families. This district has given so much to my own children, and I am deeply committed to ensuring that every student has the opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed.
As Director of Special Education, I work to ensure that students with diverse learning needs receive the individualized support and resources necessary to thrive both academically and socially. In my role as Co-Gifted Coordinator, I help provide enrichment opportunities and programming that challenge and inspire our gifted learners to reach their fullest potential. And as Title IV District Investigator, I am responsible for ensuring that our schools remain a safe and respectful place for all students by addressing concerns related to discrimination, harassment, and equal access.
Each of these roles is deeply connected to our mission of educating the whole child and creating an environment where every student feels valued, respected, and equipped for success. I am proud to work alongside our dedicated staff and to partner with parents and the community to support the needs of all Huskies.
Thank you for visiting my page. I welcome your questions, feedback, and collaboration as we continue to make Northwestern a place where every student can flourish.
Sincerely,
Chris Sykes
Director of Special Education
Co-Gifted Coordinator
Title IV District Investigator
Northwestern Local Schools
IEP Progress Reports:
Students receive IEP progress reports every 9 weeks typically along with the report card period. We encourage parents to check progress book regularly for current classroom progress/grades. If you have additional questions or concerns, please contact your child’s teacher individually. Intervention Specialist will continuously progress monitor IEP goals and objectives as they have done so in the past.
Multi Tiered System of Supports (MTSS)
Northwestern Local Schools uses a Multi-Tiered System of Support model that use research based academic, social/emotional, and behavioral interventions. Providing interventions and collecting data is an integral part of student support as well as team collaboration. This MTSS process has allowed many struggling students to be successful.
What is an Individual Education Program (IEP)?
Special education services are identified through an educational process. IEP's are designed to meet the individual needs of each student and to make progress toward the general education curriculum. An IEP team, made up of the following: parents/guardians, teachers, and related services staff work together to develop an educational plan. The plan addresses the following: goals, objectives, accommodations/modifications, and services to meet the student's needs. Services are provided through a continuum of least restrictive environment (LRE). IEP's are monitored and progress reported along with report card/interim periods.
Eye Exam Guidelines for Students with an Initial IEP
House Bill 95 requires all students to schedule an appointment with an eye doctor within 90 days after the initially identified with a disability. If the student has had an eye exam from an eye doctor (optometrist or ophthalmologist) within the last 9 months, the requirement is waved. The financial requirement for the service lies with parental responsibility. Legislation currently requires school to report this day of service. If a student is eligible for services, services will not be withheld based upon eye exam standing. A brochure is available with additional information. Please contact the Special Education Dept. to report the day of eye exam.