GRAYSON COUNTY SCHOOLS

Vision - The vision of the district-wide special education/preschool programs is to level the playing field by providing exceptional services for exceptional students by designing & implementing individualized support systems that help grow our students while closing the achievement gap.

Mission - The mission of the district-wide special education/preschool programs is to provide high-quality, equitable, engaging educational opportunities that support students with special needs so they are prepared academically, socially & emotionally with the work-life skills needed to achieve their individual potential to become responsible citizens.

Shared Beliefs - Grayson County Schools has a common belief system that includes the following:

• All students can achieve.

• All students shall be valued & treated with respect & dignity.

• All GCS families shall work cooperatively with each school to provide & promote the POG skills required of successful graduates.

COMMUNITY RESOURCES

Grayson County Behavioral Health Clinic (Communicare)
805 Commerce Drive
Leitchfield, KY 42754
T: 270.259.4652
F: 270.259.6655
Crisis Hotline: 270-737-1360

Twin Lakes Behavioral Health & Wellness
346 South Main Street
Leitchfield, KY 42754
T: (270) 230-1777
F: (270) 679-0838
Email: twinlakesadmin@tlbhw.org

Early Intervention and Consultation Services (EICS)
635 S. Main Street
Leitchfield, KY 42754
T: 270-287-0656
F: 270-230-0328

River Valley Behavioral Health
Crisis Stabilization Unit
1100 Walnut Street
Owensboro, KY 42301
T: (270) 689-6690

A MESSAGE FROM THE DIRECTOR

GCS is dedicated to providing the best education possible for all of our students regardless of their individual differences and unique learning styles. As Director of Exceptional Education, it is my responsibility to promote the overall mission of the district which focuses on preparing all students to be successful life-long learners. Students in need of special education and related services are given equal access to a quality education provided by the district. This is accomplished through the coordination of our Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) team and Admissions and Release Committee (ARC) that work in collaboration with our parents to develop goals and implement specially designed instruction that maximizes academic success, recognizes students' potential, and fosters social and emotional development. I am committed to promoting a caring community of professionals that meet the diverse needs of all of our students in a respectful and positive environment. Communication and collaboration are key ingredients in providing a successful experience for all our students. Our staff is prepared to do whatever it takes to adequately address your child’s special needs. Respectful dialogue is always welcome as we work together in our partnership for student success.

Tracie Johnston, 270-259-4011
tracie.johnston@grayson.kyschools.us

OUR PROGRAM

GCS offers Specially Designed Instruction (SDI) through a continuum of services to help meet the needs of our students with special needs.

We provide a Free and Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) to all of our students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). Our Exceptional Child Educators (ECEs) co-teach with our content specialists to deliver the grade-level KY academic standards through six co-taught service delivery models.  Students receive instruction in a combination of co-taught and resource classes based on individual student need. Special classes are also offered for our students with moderate to severe disabilities. 

Case managers communicate frequently with our parents to ensure the utmost care is taken to educate their children. Partnering with our GCS families and other outside agencies helps to provide wrap-around services to address the needs of the whole child.  Working together ensures the best possible educational experience for all of our students. 

Grayson County Schools can also provide services for students in private schools, such as St. Paul, Hope Christian Academy or First Baptist, that qualify with a disability in the areas of speech/language.

DISTRICT STAFF

School ARC Contacts

Parent Guide to Preparing for ARC Meetings

PARENT AND GUARDIAN RESOURCES

• Kentucky Parent Guide for Special Education

• Parent Guide to an Individualized Education Program (IEP)

• Parent Guide to Alternate Assessment

• Infinite Campus Parent Portal Page

• Medicaid Parental Consent Form

• Mometrix Guide to Navigating College

• Special Education Records: Call (270) 259-4011 or fax your request to (270) 259-4756

DISTRICT NOTIFICATIONS

Special Education Procedural Safeguards

GCS Section 504 Procedures for Student Services

Child Find for Special Education or Section 504 Services