The Department of Special Education for the Homer Central School District works throughout the year to meet the needs of students identified with an educational disability. These students are supported through Individualized Educational Plans (IEPs). We make every effort to educate our students in the least restrictive environment possible, although at times, that may require an alternate setting. Ultimately, it is our goal to assure that all students exit our programs with the ability to (as independently as possible) be an integral and productive member of their community.  
 
Support is provided for eligible students beginning at age three through high school commencement or the year in which the student turns age 21. We work with the Onondaga, Cayuga, Cortland, Madison, and Tompkins County Departments of Health to provide programs and services for children ages three-five, who qualify under the Committee on Pre-School Special Education. A continuum of services is provided for the vast majority of our students, K-12, within district programs. A small percentage of our students require more intensive support than can be provided within our district. Therefore, we work collaboratively with other agencies such as the Onondaga-Cortland-Madison BOCES to identify the most appropriate program to meet the student's needs, and utilize the programs that are available to us.  
 
The Committee on Special Education (CSE) or the Committee on Pre-school Special Education (CPSE) meets at a minimum, annually, to review a student's progress based on the IEP goals. Based on that progress and the student's present levels of performance, goals are re-established and then it is determined what program and services are required to meet those IEP goals moving forward. In keeping the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) in mind, at times, regular education support programs may be the most appropriate level of support for students with disabilities.  
 
Our program models will exemplify the district's mission, “To graduate responsible and productive citizens who embrace life-long learning. We work together as a team of dedicated, effective, and well-supported professionals to provide a safe and nurturing learning environment.”