Frank Raspanti, Director of Special Education and Pupil Services
Fraspanti@gjsd.k12.ny.us
(518) 736-1708

Rosemary Podbielski, School Psychologist

Susan Hansen, Secretary

We hope this page is informative and user friendly. Parents are encouraged to take an active role in their children's education. We appreciate your feedback.

Listed below are some helpful links to special education:

• What should you do if you feel your child needs special education?
• What is a referral for special education?
• Who else can make a referral for special education?
• What are the steps in the special education process?
• Definition of terms
• Helpful Acronyms
• Definition of roles: Teachers and support staff 
• NYS State Education Department Procedural Safeguards Notice, effective Sept 1, 2007
   

The Special Education Department currently serves approximately 325 students. We offer self- contained programs for grades K-12 and a comprehensive resource room program for elementary and secondary students. 

The district has one psychologist on staff who serves the High School, as well as Warren Street and Jansen Avenue elementary schools. Another psychologist is contracted through HFM BOCES to serve Knox Junior High, Glebe Street and Pleasant Avenue elementary schools. Speech services are provided by district employees while physical therapy and occupational therapy is contracted through HFM BOCES. Services are typically provided to students in Johnstown school buildings. Students who can't have their specific needs met within the district are referred to our local BOCES prior to any other facility being considered.

Throughout the school year the Committee on Special Education reserves Thursday to conduct program reviews, meet new referrals and place new students with special needs who have moved into our district into appropriate programs. 

All Individual Education Plans are reviewed from March through May. Parents and students, when appropriate, are encouraged to attend and participate in the development of the IEP.

If you have any questions or comments please do not hesitate to contact us at 736-1708 or e-mail us at Fraspanti@gjsd.k12.ny.us or Rpodbielski@gjsd.k12.ny.us.

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