Special Education
The Special Education Department at HSA Belmont provides the tools and resources to ensure that all students with disabilities receive a high quality public education that prepares students for success.
HSA’s SPED department is responsible for student evaluations, creating and monitoring Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), and working with schools, staff, and families to fulfill these plans towards greater student development and achievement.
The Special Education Department uses a data-driven approach to best support the needs of each individual student, and does so in compliance with federal and state regulations regarding special education, including the Individual with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.
While education is our top priority our approach to education is holistic and comprehensive. Students with disabilities may receive related services as part of their individual education programs (IEPs). The school district will maintain related service logs that record the type and number of minutes of the related service(s) administered to such students. Copies of any related service logs will be available to parents/guardians at their child’s annual review IEP meeting. Parents/guardians of students with disabilities may also request copies of their child’s related service logs at any time.
NOTICE OF NONDISCRIMINATION
As a recipient of Federal financial assistance, Horizon Science Academy Belmont does not exclude, deny benefits to, or otherwise discriminate against any person on the ground of race, color, or national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, protected veteran’s status, genetic information, or on the basis of disability or age in admission to, participation in, or receipt of the services and benefits under any of its programs and activities, whether carried out by Horizon Science Academy Belmont directly or through a contractor or any other entity with which Horizon Science Academy Belmont arranges to carry out its programs and activities.
This statement is in accordance with the provisions of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, the Age Discrimination Act of 1975, and the Regulations of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services issued pursuant to these statutes at Title 45 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Parts 80, 84, and 91, and 28 CFR Part 35.
Horizon Science Academy Belmont has adopted an internal grievance procedure providing for the prompt and equitable resolution of grievances alleging any action prohibited by Title VI, Section 504, Title II of the ADA, the Age Act, or the Federal regulations implementing these laws.
Any person who believes she or he has been subjected to discrimination on the basis of disability or who believes she or he has been subjected to retaliation under Section 504 or the ADA may file a grievance under this procedure. It is against the law for Horizon Science Academy Belmont to retaliate against anyone who files a grievance or cooperates in the investigation of a grievance.
Students or staff found to have engaged in acts of discrimination or harassment based on disability will be promptly disciplined and make clear that such discipline may include for students, if circumstances warrant, suspension or expulsion, and for employees, termination.
Horizon Science Academy encourage students, parents and Concept Schools and staff to work together to prevent acts of harassment of any kind.
Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) Accounts
Empowering Students and Families Toward Financial Independence
An ABLE Account is a tax-advantaged savings and investment tool designed specifically for individuals with disabilities and their families. These accounts provide a way to build financial security and independence without jeopardizing eligibility for other essential benefits.
An IL ABLE Account can be opened at any time by an Eligible Individual or an Authorized Individual (such as a parent or guardian). ABLE Accounts can be an excellent resource for families of students currently supported by an IEP or 504 plan.
For detailed information on how to open an account for your student, please view or download our informational brochure below:
Understanding PUNS: Planning for Future Services
As our students grow, it is essential to connect with systems that provide support both inside and outside the classroom. In Illinois, one of the most critical steps for families of individuals with developmental disabilities is registering for PUNS (Prioritization of Urgency of Need for Services).
What is PUNS?
PUNS is a statewide database that records the needs of individuals with developmental disabilities who are seeking or planning for future services. It is managed by the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS).
Why is Registration Important?
Registering for PUNS is the primary way the state identifies who needs support and how to allocate funding. By joining the database, you are:
- Planning Ahead: Recording your student’s need for future services, such as residential support, day programs, or adaptive equipment.
- Advocating for Funding: Helping the state determine how to develop new programs and distribute resources effectively.
- Securing a Spot: Ensuring your student is on the list for when service funding becomes available.
How to Get Started
We encourage all families of students with developmental disabilities to learn more about the registration process and the various support programs offered by IDHS.
Visit the IDHS Website: Illinois Department of Human Services - PUNS Information
Navigating Special Education at HSA Belmont
At HSA Belmont, we recognize that historically navigating Special Education services can feel like an overwhelming journey. We are committed to partnering with our families to ensure every student has the support and resources they need to thrive.
To help you understand your rights and our internal processes, we have compiled a comprehensive guide available for download.. This resource includes:
- Procedural Safeguards: Understanding your legal rights and protections.
- The Special Education Process: A step-by-step look at our guidelines and evaluations.
- Continuum of Services: Details on the various educational settings and supports available at our school.
- Language Access: Information on how to request and access interpreter services for meetings and communications.
Let’s Connect
While documentation is essential, we believe a conversation is often the most helpful way to get your questions answered.
If you would like to learn more about the Special Education services at HSA Belmont High School, or if you need assistance navigating your student's plan, please reach out to us:
- Phone: (708) 667-0941
- Request: Ask to schedule a time to speak with the School Case Manager.