Special Education

The foundation for North Kitsap School District's Early Childhood Education Program is working closely with families to address the distinctive requirements of every child. Our multidisciplinary staff hold the firm belief that early childhood education is the cornerstone of academic, social, and lifelong achievement. 

At the center of each team, teachers and parents work collaboratively supported by administrators, counselors, and instructional support teachers. In the event of any challenges with a child's progress or development, the child's teacher and other team members will convene to create a customized plan for the child's success. School nurses, psychologists, speech/language pathologists, and occupational therapists are key members who provide their services for students who qualify.

The Developmental Preschool and Peer Partner Program provides special education services and support for eligible preschoolers ages 3 through 5 at Poulsbo, Suquamish, and Wolfle elementary schools. Students can attend preschool classes at these schools or at other community preschool programs like ECEAP and Head Start, which also offer support services.

To learn more about the Developmental Preschool and Peer Partner Program and enrollment, visit the Online Enrollment page. For assistance with Pre-K in other languages, contact the Special Education Department at 360-396-3023

The Special Education Department's services in the district include resource rooms, which are available in every elementary, middle, and high school. These specialized spaces play a crucial role in providing additional support and resources to students with unique learning needs. Resource rooms are designed to offer a safe and inclusive environment where students can work at their own pace and receive individualized instruction.

In resource rooms, students can access a variety of educational materials, including books, audio and visual aids, and technology resources. These resources are chosen based on the specific needs of each student, and instructors work closely with students to ensure that they have the necessary tools to succeed. Additionally, resource rooms offer one-on-one or small group instruction, which allows for more personalized attention and support.

The Special Education Department's resource rooms provide students with a space where they can feel comfortable and confident in their ability to learn. The department's ultimate goal is to ensure that all students have access to the support and resources they need to reach their full potential.

The elementary schools in the district have Intensive Support Programs that provide targeted assistance to students with more complex needs. These programs are designed to help students overcome challenges related to academics, behavior, and social skills, so they can improve their overall well-being and achieve success.

Intensive Support Programs are staffed by qualified professionals who work closely with students to identify their unique needs and develop individualized plans that address their specific challenges. The program's instructors use a variety of evidence-based strategies and interventions to support students in achieving their goals.

The programs' academic component helps students who struggle with reading, writing, math, or other subject areas. The instructors work with the students to break down complex concepts into manageable parts, provide targeted practice, and reinforce skills through positive reinforcement. Additionally, the behavioral component focuses on helping students develop essential social skills and self-regulation strategies that they can use in and out of the classroom.

Furthermore, the social skills component of the Intensive Support Programs is designed to enhance students' ability to interact positively with peers and adults. Students learn how to identify and manage emotions, communicate effectively, and resolve conflicts constructively. The overall objective of these programs is to create a supportive environment where students can thrive academically and socially, and ultimately achieve success.

Life Skills program, available at Poulsbo Middle School, Kingston Middle School, Kingston High School, and North Kitsap High School, help students develop essential life and vocational skills. By providing practical learning experiences and real-world applications, these classes empower students to become self-sufficient and confident individuals.

The Behavior Program (Summit) at the North Kitsap School District is a specialized program designed to cater to students with significant behavior disabilities. The program becomes an option when traditional behavior intervention plans and strategies have been ineffective in the student's regular school environment. Key services of the program include providing an alternative learning environment for students, allowing the school to assess and adjust the student's Individualized Education Program (IEP), and gradually reintegrating the student back into a general education environment with comprehensive monitoring and support.

Admission into the Summit Program requires the student's IEP to include behavior goals and a current behavior intervention plan derived from a recent functional behavior assessment. A change of placement process must also be undertaken. If a new student with an IEP similar to the Summit Program's structure joins the district, the school team will evaluate the situation. If the Summit Program is deemed suitable, the school psychologist communicates with the student's family or caregiver to explain the program and begin the transfer validation process.

The Transition Program for 18-21 year olds, also known as the Step Up Program, at North Kitsap School District is a specialized initiative for students who have fulfilled graduation requirements but haven't formally graduated. Its participation and scope are determined by the student's Individualized Education Program (IEP) team.

The program emphasizes safety and social communication, daily living skills, work training and experience, and recreational/leisure activities. Additionally, it provides opportunities to explore community job sites and/or engage in West Sound Tech coursework.

Admission to the program requires connections with community agencies and partners, fulfillment of graduation requirements, and IEP team discussions about the student's High School and Beyond Plan (HSB) and Transition Plan goal progress. If the program is recommended, the High School to Community Based Transition Program Procedures must be followed. The intensity of the program (part-time or full-time) is based on the IEP team's decision.