PTHS Student Handbook 2024-2025

Federal law protects students from discrimination due to a disability that substantially limits a major life activity. If your student has a qualifying disability, an individualized Section 504 Plan will be developed and implemented to provide the needed supports so that your student can access his or her education as effectively as students without disabilities. Not all students with life-threatening allergies and life-threatening chronic illnesses may be eligible under Section 504. Our school district also may be able to appropriately meet a student's needs through other means. ENGLISH LEARNERS The school offers opportunities for English Learners to develop high levels of academic attainment in English and to meet the same academic content and student academic achievement standards that all children are expected to attain. Parents/guardians of English Learners will be: (1) given an opportunity to provide input to the program, and (2) provided notification regarding their child’s placement in, and information about, the District’s English Learners programs. SPECIAL EDUCATION An Individual Education Program (IEP) is developed for any student who meets the criteria to receive special education and related services under the Individuals with Disability Educational Act – Reauthorization 2004 (IDEA). An IEP is a written document designed by the multidisciplinary team, including the student and his or her parents, which outlines the educational program and goals that are specific to the individual student’s needs. Based on these individual needs, the IEP team will determine if the student should receive their diploma based on completing PTHS graduation requirements, State graduation requirements, or completion of IEP goals. The mission of the PTHS Special Education Department is to maximize student growth and independence to the furthest degree possible by tailoring education to the diverse and unique needs of the students. For questions related to this program or to express input in the school’s English Learners program, contact the Principal at 815-844-6113.

Any parent who is deaf or does not typically communicate using spoken English and who participates in a Section 504 or IEP meeting shall be entitled to an interpreter.

STUDENT ASSIGNMENT Placement of students shall be the responsibility of the Principal and shall be based on general achievement with consideration being given to the mental, physical, emotional, and social maturity of the child. In general, students transferring into PTHS will be placed in the same course level as in the school from which they transferred, but children transferring, as well as continuing students, may be retained or advanced in course levels at the Principal’s discretion. If the student has an IEP, the student assignment is based on the IEP team determinations.