Saline area pediatricians often refer parents to Saline Area Schools when there is some concern with a baby or toddler’s development. This surprises many parents, who don’t know that there is free help available for all children beginning right from birth. “It’s a program that doesn’t get much publicity,” says Cherie Vannatter, director of elementary special education for Saline Area Schools. “We provide a lot of support to families, and early intervention is a boost to these children.” Saline’s Early Intervention Program services about 30 children with disabilities from birth to three years old. Services are provided either at Houghton School or in the student's home. The Early Childhood Special Education classroom at Houghton School is designed for students with disabilities from 2 1/2 years old until 6 years. About 45 children are in this program. “The earlier intervention begins, the more we can change the patterns of development,” says Early Childhood Special Education teacher Nicole Phelps. “The skills gained in this early foundation prepare students for entry into the general education system and for all their future successes.” An Individualized Education Plan is created for each student by the team. “We work very closely with the parents of a young child using a team approach to best support the student and enable them to reach their goals,” Vannatter says.
The district also provides speech and language services, occupational therapy, physical therapy and teacher consultant services, either as stand-alone services or in combination with the programs mentioned.
Vannatter says that many people have moved into the district because of the reputation of the special education program. Elaine Luther knew nothing about special education when her second son, Nicholas, was born with Down Syndrome nearly five years ago. At six weeks old, Nicholas started with the Early On program, then moved on to early intervention, and then preschool at two and a half. She can’t praise the program enough. “It’s just amazing,” she says. “They not only teach the children, they love them and care about their development. I feel they’re an extension of our family, and that they’re giving Nicholas the building blocks to build his formal education on.”
As president of the Down Syndrome Support Team, Luther has heard stories from distraught parents in other districts. “I see families in schools that fight them every step of the way,” she said. “I’m so thankful that in Saline, they work with us, not against us.” Parents concerned about any aspect of their child’s development are welcome to call Houghton School at 944-8960 for an evaluation. All services are free.
