Special Education
The Allegany County Public Schools (ACPS) Special Education Department provides services and supports to ensure students with disabilities receive a free appropriate public education (FAPE) in accordance with federal and state law. Services are based on the Maryland College and Career-Ready Standards (MDCCRS), which guide curriculum and learning expectations for all students.
The Director of Special Education oversees system-wide special education programs, including Infants and Toddlers and Preschool Special Education.
Individualized Education Program (IEP)
Placement and services for students with disabilities are determined by the student's Individualized Education Program (IEP) Team, which includes parents or guardians, general and special educators, school administrators, and other appropriate staff. High school students and adult students also participate in planning their educational program.
ACPS is committed to educating students in the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE), providing services in the general education setting whenever appropriate. A full continuum of special education services is available to meet individual student needs.
Parents are valued partners throughout the IEP process. ACPS works to ensure parent participation in meetings, provides interpreters when needed, and shares documentation and recommendations following each meeting.
When students transfer to ACPS with an existing IEP, comparable services are provided while the IEP is reviewed. Staff responsible for implementing the IEP have access to the plan and understand their responsibilities.
Public Notices
Special Education Bids
Family Resources
Families seeking additional support or information may access the following resources:
- MSDE Family Support and Dispute Resolution Branch (FSDR)
- MSDE Technical Assistance Bulletins
- MSDE Information and Publications
- MSDE Parent Information Series
Parents seeking free legal assistance with special education matters may contact:
Maryland Legal Aid
110 Greene Street
Cumberland, MD 21502
301-777-7474
Special Education Citizens Advisory Committee
Special Education Citizens Advisory Committee (SECAC) is a local group in Allegany County that advises ACPS leaders on special education services, fosters family partnerships, and advocates for students with disabilities.
Meeting Agenda and Minutes:
Department Goals
The ACPS Special Education Department strives to:
- Provide access to the general education curriculum and extracurricular activities.
- Educate students in the least restrictive environment whenever appropriate.
- Ensure compliance with federal and state special education requirements.
- Support timely identification, evaluation, and IEP implementation.
- Promote collaboration among educators, families, and related service providers.
- Encourage meaningful parent participation.
- Support successful transition planning for students with disabilities.
- Provide ongoing professional development for staff.
- Partner with local, state, and community agencies to improve services.
- Continuously evaluate programs to support student success.
Wendy Main
Director of Special Education & Student Services
The Director of Special Education develops, implements, and coordinates the system-wide programs for special education, and also oversees the Infants and Toddlers and Preschool Special Education program.