Special Needs

Student Guidelines & Inclusion

Integrated Classroom Vision

“Preschool children — with and without disabilities — reap abundant benefits from an integrated classroom. Integrated classrooms are reflective of society, neighborhoods, and communities where individuals live, work, and play. Children with disabilities have opportunities to interact with typically developing peers and practice social and language skills, while kids without disabilities develop understanding and compassion.”

— Dr. Dietrich, Special Education Research Expert

Salt Hybrid Academy wholeheartedly supports this vision. To ensure a safe, successful, and flourishing learning environment for every child, we follow specific operational guidelines for integrated classes.

Guidelines for Integrated Classes

Parent Assistant/Aide: There should always be an assistant or parent aide present in the classroom.
Individual Assessment: Each case is determined individually by the teacher and administration.
Age Limits: The chronological age range within special classes of students with disabilities under 16 years of age shall not exceed 36 months.
Goal Alignment: The enrolled class or program must actively benefit the student's personal progression goals.

Teacher Discretion & Enrollment Criteria

Per guidelines adapted from the NYC School Board Special Education Initiative, instructors reserve the right to deny or review enrollment under the following circumstances:

The student requires an amount of individual attention that prevents the teacher from addressing the needs of other students.
The student exhibits disruptive behavior in the classroom that significantly impairs the educational experience of peers.
The student requires curriculum modifications so extensive that they bear little relation to standard classroom instruction.

Reference Documentation

View Dr. Dietrich Integrated Classrooms Study (PDF)
Read UFT Special Education Guidelines