SPECIAL EDUCATION
Special Education at Columbia High School
Columbia High School offers a comprehensive range of special education services designed to support students with diverse learning needs. Our goal is to ensure student participation in the general education program as the least restrictive environment while providing appropriate supports. Services are provided by a dedicated team including the Child Study Team (CST), special education teachers, and related service providers. Programs include co-teaching models, resource classes, self-contained classrooms, and specialized therapeutic supports.
8th to 9th Grade Transition
Transition Highlights Freshman Academy (2025-26)
Small learning communities providing support with study skills and executive functioning
Summer Bridge Program
Available Summer 2025 to help students transition to high school (dates TBD)
Resource Supplemental
Semester-long course focusing on study skills, time management, self-advocacy, and social skills (offered during Fall and Spring)
Paraprofessional Support
Available as classroom support, and one-to one support gradually faded as independence increases
Related Services
Provided during non-core class periods to minimize disruption to academic schedule
Special Education Programs
CAP (Columbia Academy Program)
Honors and Academic core classes in a therapeutic setting with smaller class sizes (5-7 students)
Co-Teaching/Inclusion (ICRS)
General education and special education teachers collaborate to provide instruction in a shared classroom setting
Resource Classes
Pull-out support in core subjects with specialized instruction in smaller groups
Self-Contained Programs
Multiple disabilities and ABA self-contained rooms for students requiring more intensive support
Effective School Solutions (ESS)
Clinical therapy support service with individual and group therapу sessions for students with high therapeutic needs
Related Services
Speech Therapy
Support for receptive and expressive language development
Occupational Therapу
Assistance with attention, concentration, sensory awareness, and fine motor skills
Physical Therapy
Support for functional skills, stair climbing, and large motor skills
Counseling
Three social workers provide support for personal and social development
Paraprofessional Support
One-to-one or group support for focusing, on-task behavior, and transitions
*Related Services provided during non-core class periods