Secondary Special Education

The Sioux Falls School District Middle and High School Special Education programs make up the Secondary Special Education programming.  The staff are dedicated to supporting students with disabilities in achieving academic, social, and emotional success. Our schools provide a comprehensive continuum of services designed to meet the diverse needs of our students. Services range from consultative and collaborative support in general education classrooms to more intensive, individualized instruction in self-contained classroom settings.  We offer a variety of specialized courses that can lead towards graduating with a diploma or a certificate of completion.  Our goal is to ensure that every student has access to the least restrictive environment while receiving the support they need to thrive.

Our programs are led by highly qualified special education teachers who are experts in their fields and are passionate about helping students grow. They are supported by a dedicated team of educational support professionals, related service providers, and behavior staff who collaborate to address academic goals, behavioral needs, and transition planning. 

The Secondary Special Education team is grounded in the core values

Together, we are committed to creating inclusive, supportive, and enriching educational experiences that prepare students for life beyond the classroom.

Excellence

We hold high expectations for every learner and strive for continuous improvement in everything we do.

Partnerships

We work closely with families, students, and general education staff to build strong, collaborative relationships that support student success.

Student Strengths

We focus on what each student can do, recognizing and building on their individual strengths and talents.

Independence

We empower students with the skills and confidence needed to become independent learners, problem-solvers, and self-advocates.

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Middle School

The Middle School Special Education program provides specially designed instruction through resource programs at each home school. Social skill and behavior instruction is available in Middle Schools and is designed to support social and/or behavior needs. In addition, self-contained RISE programs are located in four (4) middle schools:

  • Ben Reifel

  • George McGovern

  • Memorial

  • Patrick Henry

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High School

The High School Special Education program serves students with disabilities with specially designed instruction needs through resource programs at their home schools. Each high school houses a Tier 2 Behavior Program designed to support students with social and/or behavior needs. RISE sites provide individual, small group, and integrated learning experiences located in all four (4) high schools:

  • Jefferson

  • Lincoln

  • Roosevelt

  • Washington

Patti Ward-Maguire

Dr. Patti Ward-Maguire

Coordinator Secondary Special Education

✆ (605) 367-7938
✉ Email Patti Ward-Maguire
➢ IPC - Special Education