Program Descriptions
Thome
School for Emotionally Disturbed
Thome School houses the Bi-County operated program for students with significant emotional
and behavioral challenges. The program currently has 18 staff; principal, social
worker, 6 teachers and 10 support aides who work cooperatively to meet the unique needs of
this population.
Eligibility Requirements: Students must meet the eligibility criteria of
Emotionally Disturbed as defined by federal and state regulations and Bi-County
eligibility criteria. This programs' focus is on students who have resisted
interventions at the district level and continue to display emotional and behavioral
episodes that best can be addressed in a restrictive setting.
Bi-County Life Skills Programs
These programs cater to students with moderate to severe cognitive disabilities who
require a specialized curriculum to address their learning styles. Bi-County
currently has 6 programs to service these children. Program locations are Northside
School in Morrison (Primary), Southside School in Morrison (Intermediate), East Coloma
School in Rock Falls (Upper Elementary and Junior High) and Whiteside Area Career Center
in Sterling (High School I and II).
Eligibility Requirements: Students must meet the eligibility criteria of
Cognitive Disability as defined by federal and state regulations and Bi-County
eligibility criteria. These programs focus in on students who's learning style
requires a "functional" approach. Vocational skills are emphasized at all
levels, particularly in the high school programs, where community outings are frequent to
facilitate the generalization of classroom learned skills to community settings/events.
Bi-County Program for the Hearing Impaired
Located at East Coloma School, Rock Falls, and Sterling High School, the Bi-County Hearing
Impaired Program services students who's hearing loss is so significant that specialized
instruction from a Hearing Impaired teacher is necessary. Interpreter's and
amplification equipment are utilized to allow these students to maximize regular education
experiences. If pull out services are necessary, the Hearing Impaired instructor
will render instruction via sign language in individualized or small group settings.
Early Childhood Special Education Programs
Bi-County operates fourteen classes for students, ages 3-5, who need specialized
instruction at the preschool level. Program locations currently are Chadwick
Elementary, Fulton Blended School in Fulton, Northside School in Morrison, and Wallace
School in Sterling.
Eligibility Requirements: Students must meet the eligibility criteria for
Developmentally Delayed as defined by federal and state regulations and Bi-County
eligibility criteria. These programs are language based and focus in on readiness
skills in preparation for entrance into regular kindergarten. Students are exposed
to a multitude of readiness areas via hands on, small group, and individualized
activities. Instructors are knowledgeable regarding child development and have
training in areas specific to the unique needs of Developmentally Delayed youth.