As with any learning context, there are times when students require additional time and reinforcements in order to be successful academically, socially and/or emotionally. Such programs to support students are available to children at Nishuane, as in all schools throughout the district. The relevant approach is considered for any students for whom a concern arises and a need is identified. As partners in the education community, parents and guardians are consulted and informed during each phase of the process. We aim to partner with families as we seek to facilitate student growth and positive academic experiences.
Response to Intervention (RtI)
Academic support is offered to students who are not on benchmark levels throughout the school year in language arts and math. Teachers assist children regularly as part of their differentiated instruction. If a child does not respond to this Tier I support, then the classroom teacher will provide additional targeted instruction throughout an intervention cycle. This Tier II instruction occurs in addition to regular instruction and takes place three times a week. Tier III instruction, which is provided by a curriculum support teacher in small group, is available to students who need even more intensive support in a particular intervention cycle and is in addition to regular classroom instruction four to five times a week.
Students Accelerated In Learning (SAIL)
As per a New Jersey Department of Education mandate (NJSA 18A:7A-5d), our district will identify gifted and talented students. Students Accelerated In Learning (SAIL) is the district's approach to addressing the needs of students who are academically advanced. In Montclair, our response is guided by the principles of differentiation. At Nishuane, teachers will provide differentiation in the classroom once students qualify as "SAIL" in Reading and/or Math.
The Child Study Team
The Child Study Team determines pupil eligibility for Special Education and related services in accordance with federal and state requirements under the provisions of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and N.J.A.C. 6A:14.
Speech Therapy
The speech therapist provides services to children for articulation and language development. Sessions occur according to the student's needs.
Auditory Support Therapy
A specialist provides support services to hearing-impaired students. The therapist meets with identified children according to the students' needs.
Occupational Therapy and Physical Therapy
A certified occupational therapist and/or physical therapist works with classified students on fine motor development or other needs as identified through evaluation.
School Counselor
A full-time counselor is available to provide assistance to children when they need emotional support. Students have a safe place in which to process feelings and talk. A student may see the counselor once about a particular incident or may meet over a longer period of time depending on the child's needs. When long-term counseling becomes necessary, parents are notified for their input and consent. The counselor's goal is to establish a positive relationship between school and home so that students can be supported and have a wonderful school experience. The counselor also conducts lessons on social skills, in classrooms, as a proactive measure toward building a kind, safe and respectful school community. Please inform the school of changes (family, environment, etc.) that may affect your child's physical and emotional health.
School Nurse (973-509-4236)
The school nurse is on duty full time at Nishuane. Parents will receive either a call from the nurse or a note in the child's backpack to confirm a visit to the nurse. Parents or an emergency contact are also notified when a child becomes ill during the school day. According to Montclair Board of Education policy, there are specific instances such as an elevated temperature, vomiting and skin rashes that require children to be excluded from school. A child may also be excluded based on the clinical assessment of the nurse.
Please note: in accordance with district policy, the school nurse does not administer any herbal, homeopathic, or dietary supplements.
* Please see additional helpful information from the Health Office under the section entitled Health and Wellness.