Canon-Mac Notebook: Directors Discuss the State of Special Education

Betsy Sommerville, director of special education, gave a report about several programs she is implementing in the district to school directors Monday.

She discussed Response to Instruction and Intervention—a method of academic intervention that is designed to provide early, effective assistance to children who are having difficulty learning.

She enthusiastically provided details of the program. She also spoke about resources being provided to all students, from gifted to those who have special needs and disabilities.

Sommerville spoke about the Parent Network, praising a group of area parents who are reaching out and supporting each other, especially regarding issues related to special education. She said, “The group was able to secure three guest speakers last year, each with different disabilities but have become successful in their fields. The Parent Network also met over the summer to support each other.”

When speaking about the gifted program, she discussed a learning-based project that will teach leadership skills. The project would also be a way the students can give back to the community, and would encompass more than just their specialized area of interest (such as math or science).

Also discussed:

• The Board discussed an earned income tax resolution, and to approve a three-year commitment to Financial Management Inc. for a budget model program—a software tool that will increase the efficiency of budget forecasting.

• The board also discussed the donation of 35 pieces of cookware from All-Clad Metalcrafters valued at $7,605.00. The gift was earmarked to support the Canon-McMillan football boosters for fundraising efforts. The gift is to be used at the discretion of the boosters and may be used in any way the group see fit.

• Director Darla Bowman-Monaca spoke about her day with Substitute Superintendent Michael Daniels. The pair went to the first day of school at various locations in the school district, welcoming students, teachers and bus drivers to their first day back from summer vacation.

• The board spoke about approving several student trips. The trips, the Pennsylvania State Thespian Conference in Lansdale, Pa.; a high school band trip to Walt Disney World in Orlando; and an Advanced Placement History trip to Gettysburg would be at no cost to the district.

Editor's Note: The board next meets at 7 p.m. Monday in the district administration building.